As a leader, who would you say contributed to your success?

I was fortunate to have very supportive parents who believed in me throughout my life. My brother and I were raised in a household where a strong work ethic, life skills, and social values were modelled. As a result, I embarked on a professional path that presented opportunities I wasn’t afraid to embrace. I worked in Public Health as a Dietitian for 10 years and spent an additional three years in management. I was then offered a Directorship position, which I held for 10 years, as a career opportunity that led me to my current role. In every role, I was able to gain a thorough knowledge and understanding of health care management in specialized areas in order to advance to the next level.

How do you feel your role is helping you contribute to improving health care?

It is a role that can influence how New Brunswickers access the right care, at the right time, to achieve optimal health and wellbeing. We are focusing on enhancing care coordination for the vulnerable population with complex needs. We believe this will address how we, as a health care system, can better meet the needs of this population.

What is your favourite part about your role?

The team that I work with are very driven and motivated to contribute to the overall care of our population and achieve the goals that we have set. New Brunswick’s Extra-Mural Program (EMP) is such a gem. EMP employees deliver the type of care that makes a huge difference in people’s lives and I am honoured to be part of this team. I look forward to continuing to identify and implement leading practices in home care, in collaboration with Ambulance New Brunswick, our partners and our stakeholders.

How do you achieve work-life balance? What is your best self-care advice?

This is a challenge for me as I get caught up in ensuring the work or high-priority initiatives are well supported. However, I aim to ensure healthy eating and regular exercise are part of my routine. I also try to be present in all that I do and thoroughly enjoy being in the moment.

What advice would you share with young women looking to advance their career?

Have a strong ethical approach. Be true to yourself and believe that you can achieve anything. Take the time to start your career in the field, to be closer to the patient and to better understand service delivery. Climb the ladder in stages and don’t lose sight of opportunities that present themselves along the path.

What’s the biggest change you would like to see in the health care system?

Collaboration of partners within the health care system to optimize existing resources and support coordinated care for the population.

What do you do to stay on top of your game?

Pay attention to your team; support them in their efforts. Focus on the end result your team is trying to achieve and don’t lose sight of the difference everyone is trying to make. Refer to leading practices and not re-invent the wheel.

What qualities does it take to succeed?

Transparency, focused leadership, collaboration, innovation, thinking outside the box and most of all courage!

Tell us one fun fact about you.

I am an amateur artist. I find great pleasure in painting and giving them to my friends and family and anyone who appreciates art.