South Riverdale Community Health Centre (SRCHC)’s Board of Directors is thrilled to announce the appointment of Shannon Wiens to the role of Chief Executive Officer, following a consultation with health system partners, community members and staff to understand what leadership qualities and professional experiences are needed to bring SRCHC in the future, coupled with a comprehensive and open recruitment process. She will assume her responsibilities effective immediately.
An accomplished healthcare leader and change agent, Shannon brings extensive experience in fostering strategic partnerships, driving innovation and implementing transformative solutions that focus on bringing positive change and enhancing the client experience.
“In my time on the Board, Shannon has demonstrated a deep knowledge and commitment to South Riverdale CHC and its values,” said Emily Hill, Board Chair. “We believe she is well positioned to step into this new role and provide the collaborative and consultative leadership that is needed right now, and in years to come.”
Demonstrating a strong commitment to capacity building and serving the most vulnerable in our communities, Shannon believes that the social determinants of health are critical to achieving health equity for all. Her innovative and responsive leadership style will ensure SRCHC continues setting and executing an inspiring organizational vision and nurturing a high- performing employee culture.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to take South Riverdale CHC into its next chapter. Our organization has been a transformative health systems leader for more than 48 years. I intend to continue with this clear vision and evolve it even further,” says Shannon Wiens, SRCHC’s new CEO. “We have many outstanding programs and services in chronic disease, community health and mental health and substance use that we can leverage to chart a path forward to reduce health inequities and improve health outcomes for communities in East Toronto.”
Shannon Wiens, formerly SRCHC’s Vice-President, Strategy and Systems, has worked in the community health sector for over 30 years in a variety of roles, including developing integrated health systems, and working for three of the social planning councils in Toronto early in her career. She has extensive experience volunteering and chairing several community-based not-for-profit Boards of Directors in Toronto, including Social Planning Toronto. She is a graduate of the University of Toronto Planning Program (MscPI) and the Rotman School of Business Community Health Leaders Program.
SRCHC’s Board would also like to thank Jennifer Bowman, who has been Interim CEO since July 2024, for her steady and strong leadership during this time of transition.
Congratulations, Shannon!