CHEO Announces Appointment of New President and CEO

Ottawa, ON – December 4, 2024 – The Board of Directors of the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Vera Etches as its new President and CEO, effective March 3, 2025.

Dr. Etches' stellar reputation, extensive experience managing large, complex organizations, and success navigating major health crises like the pandemic were key factors in the Board’s decision. Her leadership of a major healthcare organization with broad community reach has prepared her well for the challenges of leading a pediatric health centre with a focus on connected care. Her strong relationships with numerous community partners and her experience with many of CHEO’s federal, provincial and municipal partners will be key assets to her new role.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Etches to CHEO,” said Jo-Anne Poirier, Chair of CHEO Board of Directors. “Her experience, passion, and dedication to improving health for everyone makes her an ideal person to lead us into the future.”

As President and CEO, Dr. Etches will oversee all aspects of CHEO’s operations, including patient care on campus and in the community, research, innovation and advocacy. She will work closely with the CHEO team to build on the organization’s vision for the future, which includes an ambitious 10-year redevelopment plan that will see new and renovated spaces to expand access to care for every child and youth.

“I am honoured to be joining CHEO and to have the opportunity to lead such a remarkable organization,” said Dr. Etches. “CHEO is synonymous with exceptional compassionate care and groundbreaking research. I look forward to working with the CHEO team to build on this legacy and ensure that CHEO continues to meet the growing needs of kids today and tomorrow.”

Alex Munter, who served CHEO with dedication for 13 years, resigned earlier this fall. Dr. Lindy Samson, the current interim President and CEO, will continue in this role until Dr. Etches will start her new position on March 3, 2025.

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About CHEO

Based in Canada’s capital, CHEO is a globally renowned health institution with a mission to provide exceptional care and support to children, youth and their families. Opening our doors in 1974, we offer a full range of specialized pediatric care and services to children from eastern and northern Ontario, western Quebec and Nunavut. Our site is home to a hospital, a children’s treatment centre, a school, a research institute, and is affiliated with the University of Ottawa as an academic health science centre. Named Canada’s best health-care employer by Forbes in 2024, we are home to more than 6,500 staff, clinicians, scientists and researchers, as well as volunteers – all of whom work together to help children and youth achieve their best lives.