Meet Raquel! Raquel began her career at Horizon in 2019 as a Revolving Administrative Assistant. Over the years, her career has developed through various positions, eventually landing her the role of Practice Manager in 2023. Continue reading to see how Raquel grew her career, and her hopes for continuing her development.
How did you come to be in your position at Horizon?
I started with Horizon Health Services in 2019 as a Revolving Administrative Assistant, which entailed floating across different outpatient clinics in both Erie and Niagara Counties to assist with coverage. After about a year, I switched from my revolving position to a stationed Administrative Assistant role at Horizon’s East Amherst Family Recovery Center. In the Winter of 2020, I left Horizon to pursue another career adventure, however, in Spring of 2021, I returned as an Administrative Assistant for a year. From there, I grew into the role of Administrative Team Lead at Horizon’s Union Losson Recovery Center. I held the role of Team Lead for about a year before being promoted to Practice Manager in March of 2023.
What kinds of trainings/ad hoc committees/workgroups have you been a part of that have supported your growth?
I participated in Horizon’s Emerging Leaders Program, which is designed to support aspiring leaders within the organization looking to develop and enhance their leadership skills. I’ve also participated in New Hire Onboarding workgroups, observed interviews, and have had hands-on experience with several administrative projects throughout the years. Additionally, I’ve been involved with our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Council and have attended several of our trainings provided by Horizon University. Outside of Horizon, I’ve also participated in the Amherst Chamber of Commerce Emerging Business Leaders Program.
Can you speak to the mentorship relationships you’ve developed over the years and how these have helped you grow as a leader?
I’ve had the pleasure of working with several supervisors during my time at Horizon. This allowed me to gain knowledge and experience that I’ve carried with me in my own supervisory role. The bi-weekly “supervisions” we hold with our staff is an excellent way to maintain an open-door policy and provide a safe space for staff to voice their questions or concerns. This also allows for staff to check in on their career goals and progress and continue to work with their mentor/supervisor to achieve those goals.
Do you have any goals for further growth within your role at Horizon?
One of my goals is to work closer with administrative staff to ensure they receive the trainings and connections they deserve during the onboarding process and throughout their career development. It’s one of my passions to train and develop future leaders of our organization.
What would you say to someone who may be interested in growing in their career with Horizon?
Take advantage of all the different training opportunities and make connections with staff members from across the organization. Each Horizon team member brings a different experience and qualities that we can all learn from.
Interested in building your career with a company that prioritizes growth? Check out our career opportunities here!