Employee Spotlight: Zainab Khalid

Zainab Khalid, Business Development Manager

Meet Zainab Khalid. As a Business Development Manager at Kii Health, she collaborates with HR leaders to create healthier workplace cultures through comprehensive health and wellness solutions, including Employee and Family Assistance Programs (EFAP), mental health support, medical care, occupational health and safety, disability management, and workers’ compensation. By building strong, collaborative relationships and understanding each organization’s unique needs, she ensures they have the right tools and support to create a thriving, positive workplace culture that prioritizes employee well-being.

1. What was your reason for joining Kii Health?

I joined Kii Health because I am passionate about creating positive change in the workplace when it comes to health and wellness. We spend so much of our lives at work—often half of our waking hours—so it’s essential that we create environments where employees’ health and well-being are a priority. Kii Health’s holistic approach, covering mental and physical care, along with the personalized support provided by Nurse Care Coordinators, really stood out to me. I wanted to be part of an organization that not only delivers innovative solutions but also actively supports employees in leading healthier, more balanced lives. I am excited to help cultivate workplace cultures where employees feel empowered to thrive and be their best selves.

2. What are some of the biggest challenges you hear from decision-makers when it comes to supporting employee well-being?

One of the biggest challenges I hear is low employee engagement with wellness programs. Even with valuable resources like mental health support and EFAPs, employees often don’t fully utilize them due to a lack of awareness, trust, or understanding. As a result, companies miss out on the full potential of their investment in employee well-being. At Kii Health, we address this challenge head-on by providing dedicated account management that supports clients from launch through their entire journey. We also offer employee and manager training and keep engagement high through monthly newsletters, articles, and live virtual events focusing on key health and wellness challenges.

Another challenge is ensuring employees receive quality care when they seek help. Often, their needs are not properly identified at the outset, which leaves them without the support they require, resulting in frustration and disengagement. What truly sets Kii Health apart is our nurse-led care coordination. From the very first point of contact, employees speak directly with a nurse. These nurses are not only qualified and trained to properly assess an individual’s situation, but they also know exactly what questions to ask to understand what the person is going through. Based on this thorough assessment, the nurse then guides the employee to the most appropriate resources for their needs. This human touch ensures that employees receive the care and support that will truly help them, leading to better outcomes for both the individual and the organization.

3. How do you approach conversations with organizations that may not realize the importance of prioritizing mental health and wellness in the workplace?

I start by having an open conversation about the impact of mental health on the workplace. Many organizations do not immediately connect the dots between mental health and key outcomes like productivity, absenteeism, or turnover. I help them understand that when employees struggle, it can lead to disengagement, lower performance, and higher healthcare costs. I share success stories and data to show how investing in mental health support benefits both employees and the organization’s bottom line. I also emphasize the importance of a holistic approach, offering a wide range of services under one platform, which makes it easier for companies to integrate wellness into their culture and for employees to access the support they need. Ultimately, this approach boosts employee engagement, retention, and overall well-being.

4. Kii Health offers a broad range of support, from EFAP and mental health services to medical care and disability management. How do you help clients find the right mix of services to support their workforce’s unique needs?

I work closely with each client to understand their workforce’s specific challenges.  After evaluating factors like employee demographics, company culture, and existing wellness programs, I recommend a tailored mix of services that will have the most meaningful impact. For some organizations, mental health support and EFAP services might be the top priority, while for others, especially in labour-intensive industries, occupational health and disability management may be more critical. What I appreciate about Kii Health is the flexibility of our offerings. We can design customized programs that address immediate needs and long-term well-being goals, ensuring every client gets the right support at the right time.

5. What do you think sets Kii Health apart in the employee wellness space?

What truly sets Kii Health apart is the way we approach wellness from a place of genuine care. We recognize that employee well-being isn’t just about checking off boxes; it’s about creating a supportive, holistic environment where employees feel truly seen and heard. Our solutions are designed to work together, ensuring employees are supported in all aspects of their well-being.

The real differentiator, however, is our nurse-led care coordination. From the moment an employee reaches out, they’re not speaking to an automated system; they’re connecting with a nurse who is trained to listen, understand, and help guide them toward the right resources. This human touch is what makes all the difference. It’s not just about giving them a list of services; it’s about ensuring they feel confident and supported as they take the next step toward getting the help they need. Another powerful aspect is our commitment to long-term mental health care. We know that mental health is a journey, and we provide support that goes beyond the typical short-term solutions. For example, for employees dealing with chronic conditions, our enhanced mental health services offer them the space and care they need to heal and thrive.

When employees feel truly supported and know their company cares about their well-being, it makes all the difference in their productivity, engagement, and overall happiness. It’s not just about providing services; it’s about creating an environment where employees can truly thrive.

6. What excites you most about working in the employee health and wellness space?

What excites me most is the chance to make a real difference in the individuals’ lives and for the organizations they work for. Early in my career, I worked at a company that did not prioritize employee wellness. That lack of support left me feeling burned out and disengaged, which directly impacted my morale and productivity. Ever since, I have sought out organizations that prioritize employee well-being. Now, I am excited to be part of a team that helps organizations recognize that wellness is not just a benefit; it is crucial for long-term success. The workplace is evolving, and I am excited to help create environments where employees can thrive, not just survive. Being able to foster that kind of support is incredibly fulfilling to me.

7. How do you think workplace needs are evolving when it comes to health and wellness support?

Workplace needs are evolving rapidly, particularly as employees’ expectations around wellness shift. Mental health has become a top priority, and employees now expect employers to offer more comprehensive, accessible support. Beyond mental health, there is a growing focus on overall well-being—work-life balance, physical health, and resilience. Organizations are now seeking integrated solutions that combine various aspects of wellness into one cohesive offering. At Kii Health, we are well-positioned to meet these evolving needs by offering flexible, tailored services that address the full spectrum of employee wellness.