NEWMARKET, Ont. – Southlake Regional Health Centre announced that the hospital’s president and CEO, Dr. Dave Williams (pictured), has decided to retire by the end of 2017. Williams’ decision to retire will bring to a close the latest chapter in a remarkable career as a leader, physician and space explorer, in addition to his tenure as Southlake’s president and CEO since 2011.

“Dave Williams’ strong leadership has created a solid platform for Southlake to continue its commitment to deliver world-class care close to home. Dave has worked relentlessly to drive a culture where innovation, implementation of best practices, fiscal responsibility and patient-centered care is engrained in the fabric of the organization. Strong teamwork, professional respect and trust are cornerstones of the ‘Southlake Way’ thanks to Dave and his capable leadership team,” said Colette Nemni, Board Chair.

“The board is immensely grateful to Dave for his contributions solidifying Southlake’s role as a leading regional health centre accredited with exemplary standing and with further recognition through numerous national and international awards.”

The board acknowledges Williams’s extraordinary career accomplishments, his leadership role as chair of the Ontario Health Innovation Council, his participation on the Boards of numerous healthcare organizations and his outstanding contributions to society for which he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2013 and recipient of the Order of Ontario in 2014.

“I am privileged to have led a hospital that is remarkable for its quality outcomes and the relentless commitment of its staff and volunteers to treat patients like family,” Williams said. “It has been an honour to work with such impressive, compassionate, dedicated professionals. As Southlake starts to map out the strategic plan for the next five years it is time for me to transfer the helm to a new CEO. I look forward to working with the board and the management team during this transition period.”

The board of directors will start the process to appoint a successor in the coming weeks.