May 2, 2012

The Weeneebayko Area Health Authority Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Bernie D. Schmidt as its President and Chief Executive Officer effective June 11, 2012. He has an extensive background in Health and Social Services, supported by Master’s degrees in Health Administration and Social Work, is a Certified Healthcare Executive with the Canadian College of Health Leaders and a Fellow with the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Bernie joins the WAHA team, placing patients and their families first, as a supportive and inclusive leader, modelling the values of excellence, professionalism, integrity and compassion.  A strategic catalyst for transformational change, Bernie has achieved success as a result of significant process improvement and capacity building.  His many years in the Ontario health care system: in positions of Planning, Administration, Employee Relations, Patient Support, Consultant and President and Chief Executive Officer as well as his most recent experience as Executive Director for the Iqaluit Health and Social Services has provided Bernie with an environment to focus on continuous improvement ensuring enhanced effectiveness and efficiency in operations leading to improved financial performance and most importantly, safe and quality outcomes for the patients served. 

We look forward to Bernie’s arrival at the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority on June 11, 2012 and to working with him to further develop our programs and services to best meet the needs of the people we serve. 

Leo Loone
Board Chair