Thank you, Dan. Welcome aboard, Chris.

Dan Popowich, CEO of Commissionaires British Columbia, is retiring Thursday (June 15). Chris Mitchell will take over as CEO and will waste no time transitioning into his role.

Chris spent his formative years growing up in West Africa, returning to Canada in 1998. He then joined the Canadian Armed Forces, Infantry Corps, and enrolled in the Royal Military College of Canada (RMC) where he completed a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Business Administration.  He later went on to receive a certificate in Health Services Management, a Graduate Diploma in Human Resources Management, and finally his Masters in Health Studies – Leadership. In 2010, Chris was awarded the Certified Health Executive (CHE) designation by the Canadian College of Health Leaders (CCHL).

Chris’ strong leadership foundation was established throughout his infantry experience. He later transitioned into military healthcare administration where he lead non-clinical operations and emergency support for the military’s busiest medical clinic.

In 2010, Chris transferred out of the military to a new role with the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo where he lead a team that developed, administered, and evaluated chronic disease programming.

In 2012, Chris moved to Revera Inc. to become the Executive Director for the Capilano Care Centre. He was responsible for leading a blended clinical and administrative management team to deliver exceptional care to residents. He later transitioned to the Provincial Director and was accountable for the strategic direction, performance and welfare of eight Revera long-term care homes in BC.

Chris recently served as a board member of the BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA), and had the pleasure of working with a team that developed strategies aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of provincial health systems.

His diverse experience spreads over multiple provinces with government, non-profit, and private healthcare organizations, and has established him as an expert in people-leadership and Canadian business.

As Dan noted in his announcement, the BC Division is excited to have Chris lead their team. Chris will continue to work towards a sustainable future for Commissionaires in support of our not-for-profit mandate.

Welcome aboard, Chris.

And, thank you Dan for your years of dedication, leadership and good humour.