Denise Walker

Background

About Denise Walker

Hi! I'm Denise (Antle) Walker. I came to the federal public service 20 years ago after graduating with a Bachelor of Public Relations (2003) from Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax. Over those 20 years I have- lived and worked in 6 provinces and territories, in both HQ- and regional positions- served in 3 departments (Veterans Affairs Canada; then-named Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada; and Health Canada, including the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch)- supported countless Ministerial events, commemorative events and two Prime Ministers northern tours, and became a strong event planner/manager in the non-Ministerial realm as well- worked on a range of special projects and initiatives, including those in partnership with territorial and Indigenous governments and organizations- served in both communications (IS) and program (PM) positions- managed people and budgets (still a lot to learn on that front)- fostered and nurtured all sorts of relationships up, down and sideways (really well, if I do say so myself)- built my skills in collaboration, facilitation and leading others from managerial and non-mangerial seats- committed myself to make the workplace a better, safer and enjoyable space to be; AND - prided my reputation on ensuring people feel seen, heard and appreciated. I half-kiddingly call myself a "professional gap filler," having spent a good portion of my career serving my employers on projects or issues that needed immediate attention from someone not afraid of a steep learning curve. This has enabled me to sample a variety of roles and functions. I have become very self-aware in the process, identifying my strengths and weaknesses along the way. It has also meant that I learned what I like to do, and what I don't like to do (I am still digging into the 'why' parts of those discoveries. A recent ADHD diagnosis has provided some insight, though - as well as a lot of 'ah-ha' moments). I loved my experiences in Executive Support realms. I completed full-time French language training in the winter of 2023 and attained a CBB. I will forever be in pursuit of the French language. I am committed to getting my C in oral - some way, some how. If you have ideas for supporting my mission, especially if you live/work in Alberta, I'm all ears.