Simcoe County Branch CEO ‘admired’ CMHA announces departure

PRESS RELEASE
SIMCOE COUNTY CANADIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION
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The Board of Directors of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Simcoe County Branch, announces that after 4.5 years of service as Executive Director, Dr. Valerie Grdisa has decided to step down from her position effective August 5th to was looking for an exciting opportunity as CEO of the Canadian Nurses Association.

Grdisa will remain with the organization throughout August to ensure a smooth transition.

“Everyone at CMHA SCB is grateful to Valeria for her outstanding service and many achievements,” said Dr. Ayodele Akenroye, board chair, in a statement released Monday.

“We recognize the significant impact Valerie has had in leading our organization, managing a team of dedicated professionals and volunteers through challenging times, and creating our ambitious strategic plan and then delivering on its myriad outcomes. Her tireless efforts have been admired and greatly appreciated, and her exceptional leadership has earned her CMHA SCB Exemplary status following Accreditation Canada’s March 2024 survey. There would be another opportunity to thank Valeria more and wish her well, but now I can say that she will be greatly missed.”

“After several years of steady growth and building partnerships in Simcoe County and within the local communities, I feel this is a good point to hand over leadership,” Grdisa said.

“I want to thank all the wonderful people at CMHA SCB, our community partners and the Ontario/National CMHA family for their collegiality and support over the years. I will work with the management team and board to ensure a smooth transition and continue to be a champion of the profound impact that CMHA’s services and support have on the mental health and well-being of individuals across the country.”

In accordance with the succession planning process established by the board, Dr. Jennifer Fillingham, currently director, service operations, will step into the role of interim CEO effective August 6. A board search committee will oversee the search process. a successor CEO.

We wish Valerie well in the future as she begins her new national leadership role as CEO of CNA and look forward to working closely with Jennifer in the coming months.

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