Sarah McVanel

Keynote Speaker | Niagara Falls, Ontario

Certified Professional Speaker & Human Resource Leader
International Recognition Expert

Sarah McVanel Expertise Brand Strategy & Storytelling, Influence & Negotiation, Organizational Leadership, Work Life Balance, Women In Business, Communication, Innovation & Creativity, Workplace Culture and Resilience & Adversity.

Sarah McVanel

About Sarah McVanel

Sarah McVanel is a highly accomplished recognition expert and certified speaker based in Canada. With her extensive experience and expertise, Sarah McVanel has made a significant impact in the field of recognition, empowering organizations to create cultures of appreciation and acknowledge the exceptional qualities of their employees. As a recognition expert, Sarah McVanel has developed innovative approaches to recognition and has successfully implemented them in various organizations. Her insights and strategies have helped companies invigorate their workforce, fostering a thriving work environment where everyone feels valued and included. She is an accomplished author, sharing her insights and knowledge through her publications.

Sarah McVanel Videos

Sarah McVanel Speaker Demo Video 2025

Sarah Mcvanel | Human Resource Leader | Speakers Bureau of Canada

Flip Side of Failing Keynote: Speaker Demo Video

Sarah Mcvanel Speaker Demo Video 2018

Sarah McVanel Interviews & Podcasts

Recognizing Success in Failure with Sarah Mcvanel

How Recognizing Your Employees Can Lead to a Better Workplace and High

Recognition Expert, Sarah Mcvanel Talks About How to Value and Recogni

Episode #12: Would You Strive for Failure? Inspirational Sarah Mcvanel

SARAH MCVANEL BIOGRAPHY

Sarah McVanel is a multi-talented individual with expertise in recognition, public speaking, coaching, writing, and fostering positive change. As a recovering perfectionist and movement maker, Sarah McVanel has developed her company to rejuvenate companies and empower them to acknowledge the exceptional qualities of their employees. This creates a delightful and thriving work environment where everyone feels valued and included.

Sarah McVanel’s journey as a recognition expert began with her deep passion for helping organizations create a culture of appreciation and acknowledgement. Over the years, Sarah McVanel has developed a unique and innovative approach to recognition, which Sarah McVanel shares through her speaking engagements, coaching, and writing.

Sarah’s expertise is not limited to recognition alone. Sarah McVanel is also a certified speaker, recognized for her exceptional ability to captivate audiences and inspire positive change. Through her speeches, Sarah McVanel shares practical strategies and insights that organizations can implement to enhance their recognition practices and ultimately create a thriving work environment.

In addition to her speaking engagements, Sarah McVanel is also a coach, working closely with individuals and teams to help them unlock their full potential and achieve greatness. Her 25+ years of experience in training, coaching, and leading teams have equipped her with valuable insights and strategies to support personal and professional growth.

Sarah’s impact extends beyond her professional endeavours. Sarah McVanel is also an accomplished author, with several publications that delve into the power of recognition and its transformative effects. Her books serve as valuable resources for individuals and organizations seeking to cultivate a culture of appreciation.

As a testament to her dedication and expertise, Sarah McVanel has acquired various certifications in her field. She is a Certified Senior Organizational Development Professional (CSODP), demonstrating her deep understanding of organizational dynamics and development. Moreover, Sarah McVanel holds the title of Professional Certified Coach (PCC), which showcases her ability to guide individuals and teams towards achieving their goals. Her certification as a Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) further solidifies her knowledge and expertise in human resources practices.

Another notable recognition Sarah McVanel has received is being recognized as one of the 700 Certified Speaking Professionals (CSP) worldwide. This prestigious designation is a testament to her exceptional speaking abilities, as well as her commitment to delivering high-quality content and experiences to her audiences.

Sarah McVanel’s educational background complements her extensive experience and certifications. Sarah McVanel holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, providing her with a strong foundation in understanding human behaviour and motivation. Additionally, Sarah McVanel possesses a Master of Science degree in Family Relations, further enhancing her ability to navigate interpersonal dynamics within organizations.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Sarah McVanel enjoys engaging in outdoor activities with her husband. Whether it’s kayaking during the summer or snowshoeing in the winter, she finds solace in nature and uses these experiences to recharge and find inspiration. Sarah McVanel also has a passion for cooking and indulges in preparing delicious feasts while immersing herself in audiobooks played at double speed.

 

 

Sarah McVanel Topic Presentations

Sarah McVanel Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada delivers keynote presentations, workshops, fireside chats, moderated Q&A, and other presentation formats on a wide variety of topics. Each presentation is unique, customized and tailored for audiences, industries, conferences and event formats.

Work Reimagined: Restoring Meaning in an Age of Disruption

The Exponential Power of Recognition: Superglue Your Culture Through Meaningful Connection & Abundant Appreciation

Flip Side of Failing : How Unconditional Recognition Ignites Resilience, Relationships & Retention

From Problems to Possibilities: Better Questions for Clarity, Creativity, and Collaboration

Sarah McVanel Books & Articles

Forever Recognize Others' Greatness: Solution-focused Strategies for Satisfied Staff, High-performing Teams, and Healthy Bottom Lines
Forever Recognize Others' Greatness:

According to countless engagement surveys and polls, the majority of employees today want to feel more valued and to contribute in more...

Magnify Your Greatness in Times of Change (for Women Leaders)
Magnify Your Greatness in Times of Change (for

ROCKSTAR for Women Leaders provides ideas and techniques that enable women to move the needle forward every day – for themselves, their...

Flip Side of Failing: How to Recognize and Leverage Greatness in Life and Work
Flip Side of Failing: How to Recognize and

Who among us has never experienced a failure? We beat ourselves up whether the failure is big or small. And we judge others for their...

Rockstar: Magnify Your Greatness in Times of Change for Healthcare Leaders
Rockstar: Magnify Your Greatness in Times of

Sarah McVanel empowers you with the ROCK leadership behaviours that will produce STAR results both right now and post-change. Written in a...

Unemployment in Canada Has Dropped, yet Some Firms are Struggling to Hire. Here’s Why
Unemployment in Canada Has Dropped, yet Some

The unemployment rate across Canada dropped to a new low of 5.1 per cent in May — the lowest since at least 1976 — yet some businesses...

How to Retain Your Staff Through Recognition
How to Retain Your Staff Through

The exponential power of recognition is when recognition catches you off-guard and makes a beeline for the emotional centres of your brain....

Why Praising People at Work Can Be as Motivating as Money
Why Praising People at Work Can Be as Motivating

Sarah McVanel, a recognition expert, explains that workers who receive praise frequently are more likely to say their job gives them a...

Sarah McVanel Speaking Testimonials

"My team and I are thoroughly enjoying Your Great Year. We are meeting as a group on a weekly basis to debrief on the material and it’s becoming one of my favourite meetings of the week. I’m getting to know my team so much more and the discussions have been really inspiring.  "

Dana Lloyd

CEO
AnswerPlus

"Immediately useful, tactical, and aligned to what we’re doing in the organization. We are already using the strategies and tools with energy and positivity!  "

Lindsay Lackner

Development Manager
Imperial Oil, Hydrogen Business

"Interesting, relevant and engaging. Sarah’s personality made her insights all the more relatable.  "

Neil Dickens

Procurement & Supply Chain Director
McCormick Global Ingredients Limited

"The solution focused coaching cards are wonderful. Such a useful tool in the coaching that I do in my role.  "

Mikael Dam

Manager, Learning & Development
Corus Entertainment

"Thanks for the great virtual session at CAMX today. Inspired by the many comments in your session, we just met with our Executive Team and have committed to finding a way to send a gift to all employees at home next week.  "

Jamey Hopper

CEO
Dexcomm

"I have hired Sarah in every organization I have worked for. She has a unique ability to resonate with all participants, create momentum, and move people into action with passion and purpose. Sarah’s ability to get results, shift mindsets and fuel healthy cultures is second to none.  "

Cindy McArthur

Senior VP HR
Dexterra Group

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sarah McVanel known for and what is their expertise as a keynote speaker in Canada?

Sarah McVanel is known for defined subject matter expertise based on professional experience and industry background. As a keynote speaker in Canada for conferences and conventions, their presentations align with organizational objectives and audience outcomes. Corporate keynote speakers in Canada are selected based on credibility, relevance, and practical application. Expertise alignment supports informed booking decisions. Read More

What topics does Sarah McVanel speak on for conferences, conventions, corporate events, and annual general meetings in Canada?

Sarah McVanel delivers keynote presentations on defined topic areas confirmed during booking. Canadian business speakers for corporate meetings in Canada align topic selection with event objectives and audience priorities. Conference speakers in Canada adapt messaging for conventions, trade shows, and summits. Topics are finalized prior to written confirmation. Read More

How do I know if Sarah McVanel is the right fit for my audience, conference, convention, or AGM?

Sarah McVanel is evaluated based on audience alignment, event objectives, and subject matter relevance. Event planners booking keynote speakers in Canada for corporate conferences review experience, delivery style, and industry context. Canadian business speakers for annual general meetings must align with program goals and audience expectations. Fit is clarified during the pre decision call. Read More

Where is Sarah McVanel from and where do they speak across Canada?

Sarah McVanel is from Niagara Falls, Ontario and is available for events across Canada. Conference speakers in Canada frequently travel nationally with defined travel terms. Corporate keynote speakers coordinate scheduling through structured agreements. Availability is confirmed through formal inquiry. Read More

Is Sarah McVanel available as a virtual keynote speaker for online conferences, webinars, or hybrid events in Canada?

Sarah McVanel is available as a virtual keynote speaker for online conferences, corporate webinars, and hybrid events in Canada. Virtual keynote speakers in Canada deliver structured presentations adapted for remote audiences. Format, platform coordination, and timing are confirmed during booking. Virtual availability is documented through written agreement in Canada. Read More

Does Sarah McVanel deliver keynote presentations, workshops, training sessions, breakout sessions, fireside chats, or panel discussions?

Sarah McVanel may deliver keynote presentations as well as workshops and breakout sessions. Canadian business speakers for corporate training in Canada define session length and format during booking. Conference speakers may also participate in fireside chats or panel discussions depending on program design. Session formats are confirmed in writing. Read More

How do I contact Sarah McVanel to check availability and begin the booking process in Canada?

Sarah McVanel is contacted through Speakers Bureau of Canada to confirm availability and event details. Event planners and meeting planners typically schedule a pre decision call to clarify format, objectives, and scope. Booking begins once event requirements are defined. Written confirmation follows agreement execution. Read More

How do I book Sarah McVanel for a conference, convention, trade show, summit, or corporate meeting in Canada?

Sarah McVanel is booked through a structured agreement process confirming availability, fee structure, and logistics. Booking keynote speakers in Canada for conventions and trade shows includes written contracts and defined payment terms. Canadian business speakers for annual general meetings require scope confirmation before date holds convert to confirmed status. Booking is finalized upon agreement execution. Read More

How much does it cost to book Sarah McVanel as a keynote speaker in Canada?

Sarah McVanel keynote speaker fees depend on event type, audience size, format, and location. The cost to book a keynote speaker in Canada varies based on preparation scope and delivery structure. Corporate keynote speakers in Canada confirm fees through a booking agent and written agreement. Final pricing reflects defined scope and contract terms. Read More

Are there additional costs to hire Sarah McVanel for a corporate event, convention, or trade show in Canada?

Additional costs to hire Sarah McVanel may include travel expenses, extended sessions, workshops, meet and greets, emcee duties, or event host roles. Keynote speakers in Canada for business conventions often separate honorarium from travel and related logistics. Canadian business speakers confirm these components in writing before agreement execution. All additional costs are outlined contractually. Read More

How far in advance should I book Sarah McVanel for a conference, convention, or business meeting in Canada?

Sarah McVanel should be booked once event dates, location, and format are confirmed. Conference speakers in Canada often secure dates several months in advance. Corporate keynote speakers for annual general meetings may have limited availability during peak seasons. Early inquiry improves confirmation certainty. Read More

Is Sarah McVanel represented by an agent in Canada and how is the agreement handled?

Sarah McVanel is represented by Speakers Bureau of Canada for booking coordination and agreement management. Keynote speakers in Canada often work through an agency to formalize contracts and payment handling. Agent representation ensures structured communication between organizers and the speaker. Representation clarifies agreement terms before confirmation. Read More