Government Announces CEO Designate for New Health Authority
Nova Scotia's new provincial health authority is going to be led by Janet Knox, a registered nurse and senior health executive with leadership experience in Nova Scotia, Canada and overseas.
Ms. Knox will begin as president and CEO on April 1, 2015. Until then, she will act as CEO designate and advise the province and health system as it continues the consolidation process.
"We have an opportunity to build a system that thinks and acts like one," said Leo Glavine, Minister of Health and Wellness. "I believe that Janet Knox's vision, experience and skills, combined with her inclusive leadership style, will enhance collaboration and bring people together in an integrated system, committed to delivering better health outcomes for all Nova Scotians."
Mr. Glavine said the province's existing CEOs will continue to lead the health system until March 31, 2015.
"We have a unique opportunity in Nova Scotia to move forward as one to support the health of our people and communities," said Ms. Knox. "Together we can create the health system that is needed now, and into the future, guided by our shared values of quality and safety, and grounded in research and learning.
"This is our time to maximize our skills, talents and innovation and deliver on our commitment to improve health outcomes for Nova Scotians."
Ms. Knox has master's degrees in nursing and business administration and is a certified health executive. She has held clinical, academic, consultant and administrative roles during her career.
"Given my experience working with Ms. Knox over the past five years, I believe government has made an excellent choice as CEO for the new consolidated health board," said Ray Ivany, president of Acadia University. "Janet's leadership at Annapolis Valley Health has been characterized by a rare combination of innovation and collaboration coupled with an unremitting commitment to quality patient care. These skills will serve her and the province well in the development of the new model of health-care governance and administration."
Ms. Knox will help recommend a new organizational structure for the provincial health authority. Once that structure is approved by government, she will hire an executive team.
Ms. Knox is seconded immediately to the Department of Health and Wellness from her current role as CEO of Annapolis Valley Health and South Shore Health. Stuart MacTavish will become acting CEO of both organizations.