Their destinations may differ, but they all began at the same place. A look at alumni stories of success that started at Ivey.
I grew up in Bathurst, NB, a charming city on the east coast of Canada, surrounded by a close-knit community and the beautiful maritime landscape that shaped my formative years. Since 1995, I’ve called London, ON, my home. I earned my Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Ottawa before completing my MBA at the Ivey Business School in 2002. My career has been driven by a commitment to impactful leadership and community-focused work. Family is central to my life, and their support has been invaluable through every stage of my career.
What led you to your career and how has it evolved over time?
Before my MBA, I worked in information technology at a local insurance company, which sparked my interest in strategic problem-solving and complex systems. During my MBA, between the first and second year of the then two-year program, I gained invaluable experience as an administrative resident at an academic tertiary care centre, focusing on an integrated strategic alliances and networks portfolio. This exposure deepened my commitment to a career in healthcare leadership.
In the last 20 years since obtaining my MBA, I have held diverse and increasingly complex leadership roles including: Director of a regional shared services for a group of local hospitals, Director of HR and Operations in a primary care setting, Vice-President at a community hospital in the area, and later as Principal at Sailing Stone Solutions, a consultancy. Each of these roles reinforced the importance of strategic collaboration and purpose-driven leadership, culminating in my current position as CEO of Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners, where I strive to enhance dementia care and community support.
Who inspired you?
Throughout my journey, I’ve drawn inspiration from individuals who lead with empathy and vision. Chris Hadfield’s skill in making complex ideas relatable, Jacinda Ardern’s compassionate and unifying leadership, and Robin Williams’ unique ability to inspire joy and connection through humour have all influenced me. On a personal level, my parents instilled the values of humility, perseverance, and kindness—principles that continue to guide me daily.
How did Ivey play a role?
Ivey’s MBA program was transformative. The School’s case-based learning and collaborative approach honed my problem-solving abilities and prepared me for real-world complexities. The emphasis on strategic thinking, adaptability, and learning from diverse perspectives equipped me to lead with confidence and a holistic outlook.
Why did you choose the MBA program specifically?
The Ivey MBA stood out due to its emphasis on leadership development and experiential learning. The renowned case method offered not just theoretical insights, but practical, real-world application. I wanted a program that would challenge me and prepare me to lead effectively in dynamic environments. Ivey met those expectations, pushing me to grow and embrace multifaceted roles in healthcare.
What personal or professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
Professionally, leading the Health Village transformation at a community hospital in the area is one of my greatest achievements. This initiative integrated services, bolstered community partnerships, and reimagined care delivery to benefit patients and providers alike. Additionally, I am proud of quickly and confidently building a consulting practice focused on strategic planning engagements and Generative AI workshops, leveraging the strategic skills gained at Ivey and my passion for technology. Personally, my greatest pride comes from seeing our three adult children thrive and navigate their unique paths successfully. Their growth and accomplishments are constant reminders of what truly matters.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
I find joy in outdoor activities, particularly spending time at our family’s lakeside cottage in Kenora, ON. It’s a place that offers tranquility and a chance to reconnect with nature and loved ones. I also enjoy exploring my passion for flight simulators, which sparks my imagination and fuels my sense of curiosity and wonder.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
People might be surprised to know that I have a strong passion for space and science fiction. Whether it's delving into speculative stories or contemplating the mysteries of the universe, this interest continually inspires me to think beyond the ordinary and embrace the boundless possibilities of innovation and discovery.
What is your favourite memory from your time at Ivey?
My favourite memory from Ivey was participating in the Ivey Client Field Project (now known as Ivey Field Project). Our team initially struggled with how to approach an issue until we devised a creative 2x2 matrix to make sense of our analysis and position our recommendations. This breakthrough charted a way forward and was symbolic of the integrative learning approach at Ivey, highlighting teamwork, problem-solving, and the synthesis of diverse perspectives. I still keep in touch with some of the team members; I visited one in Vancouver in the fall of 2024 while attending a conference and often chat online with another, giving him pointers on his emerging passion for flight simulators.
What is the most important takeaway from your Ivey experience?
The most valuable takeaway from my Ivey experience is the power of collaboration and collective intelligence. Ivey taught me that impactful leadership is not about having all the answers but about guiding and enabling teams to achieve excellence together. This principle has been a cornerstone of my career, helping me foster innovative and cohesive teams.
Are you still connected to the School in any way?
Yes, I am still actively connected to Ivey. I serve on the London, ON, Chapter of the Ivey Alumni Network, participate in events, and maintain relationships with fellow alumni. The lessons Ivey imparted continue to inspire my lifelong commitment to learning and community engagement.
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