THUNDER BAY — The next president and CEO of St. Joseph's Care Group is a woman who already works in the organization.
The care group's board of directors has announced the appointment of Janine Black, effective Sept. 8.
She currently serves as vice-president/clinical and community health.
Black, who holds a Master's of Health Science degree in speech-language pathology from the University of Toronto, and a Master's of Business Administration from Queens University, will take over from Kelli O'Brien.
O'Brien, previously a vice-president at Western Health in Newfoundland & Labrador, started as CEO at St. Joseph's Care Group in September 2021 but announced her resignation 18 months later.
In a brief statement released by the organization on Monday, Black said the connection the staff have with clients and their families has always stood out for her.
"Addressing the significant health issues faced by people in our region requires trust, compassion and talent. I am excited to lead this team, and am looking forward to seeing all that we can achieve in service to our community."
Board chair Susan Fraser said Black's appointment follows an extensive national search process that revealed multiple talented candidates.
She described the incoming president as a collaborative leader "who brings a depth and diversity of healthcare experience combined with a demonstrated commitment to quality and safety."
Black's lengthy career with the organization dates back to 1991 when she started as a speech language pathologist, after which she took on roles with progressively larger responsibilities including as manager of integrated seniors' services, director of inpatient programs and services, director of seniors' health, and vice-president/seniors' health and addictions and mental health.
