Boyden is pleased to share the appointment news of Paula Fields, a recruitment co-led by Pamela Colquhoun and Jim Stonehouse
Little Current, ON - Jan 28, 2022
The Board of Directors of the Manitoulin Health Centre are proud to announce the appointment of Paula Fields as the new Chief Executive Officer for both the Little Current and Mindemoya sites.
Several qualified candidates submitted resumes for the position of Chief Executive Officer, including Paula Fields, the current Interim Co-CEO. The health care industry has faced considerable challenges over the last couple of years given the staffing shortages, extra demands on staff, ever changing policies and crisis facing our communities, both from COVID and the subsequent mental health issues. As Interim Co-CEO, Ms. Fields helped guide the front line through some very difficult times. She has worked tirelessly in continuing the development of strong working relationships with our community partners for the health, safety and wellness for the communities across Manitoulin.
Ms. Fields has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree and has her Masters Degree in Health Management. She began her health care journey as a General Duty Nurse at Manitoulin Health Centre in 1993 and the continued her career path as an Infection Control Nurse, Occupational Health Nurse, Nursing Manager, Director of Clinical Innovations and Partnership, Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Clinical Services, and then as Interim Co-CEO.
Ms. Fields continues her work with the Maamwewziwining Committee, an engagement project to identify ways of enhancing cultural safety and improving the patient experience in keeping with our strategic goal of “Putting patients first as we lead and collaborate with our partners”, more specifically, the strategic direction of “Respecting First Nations culture within our care practices”. Within this goal, we are seeking to: “Strengthen cultural awareness, competence and safety” as a way of improving the patient experience for our Indigenous community members. Ms. Fields is committed to working with our Indigenous community in addressing the truth and reconciliation commissions recommended for health care.
There are exciting times ahead for MHC and the Board is thrilled to have Ms. Fields at the helm to lead the way. On behalf of the Board, Chair Dennis McGregor said “The Board of Directors of MHC are extremely pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Paula Fields to the position CEO & President. Ms. Fields brings a vast level of experience as a Health Care Professional, who has worked at MHC for the majority of her career, and has forged excellent relationships with our staff, external partners, government agencies, First Nations, and associated organizations. The Board believes the appointment will allow for a smooth transition and we look forward to working with Ms. Fields to continue to meet the MHC Goals and Mission. The Board would also like to express its sincere gratitude to both Paula and Mr. Tim Vine, Vice President Corporate Support Services and Chief Financial Officer for their guidance and leadership while acting as Co-CEOs over the past months, especially through these trying pandemic times.”
“I am very pleased with the Board’s choice in CEO. From the start of the recruitment process I have endorsed Paula for the position. We have a great working relationship, and with long service to MHC and strong ties to the Island, I know Paula will be a wonderful advocate for the hospital and the community” says Tim Vine, MHC VP Corporate Support Services and Chief Financial Officer.
When asked about this new opportunity, Paula Fields said “Ensuring the success of my community and my team is important to me. During my career, my goal has always been to make a positive impact whether it be at the bed side or at a leadership table. I want to thank everyone who placed their faith in my abilities and leadership in successfully leading us through unchartered waters. I want MHC, our partners, and our community to thrive; a leader is only as strong as the team. I feel grateful for each and every one of you and am so excited to be your CEO with the many opportunities and challenges currently facing us.”
Original Souce: Manitoulin Health Centre Facebook Announcement
