People
Karim Mamdani steps down as CEO at Ontario Shores
February 5, 2025
WHITBY, Ont. – After a remarkable 35-year career, the president and CEO of Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences (Ontario Shores) Karim Mamdani (pictured) is preparing for retirement on July 31, 2025. Mamdani has worked at a number of large academic health centres, including the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, University Health Network and the Hospital for Sick Children along with some time at PricewaterhouseCoopers.
He joined Ontario Shores in 2006. Throughout his tenure, and in his role as president and CEO for the past 12 years, Mamdani has led this organization to many new heights.
With his bold vision to leverage innovation and technology to advance care, Ontario Shores was the first hospital in Canada to achieve a triple Stage 7 for its fully electronic health record system and data analytics maturity. The organization has also received numerous international and national awards, while sustaining the highest level of quality and evidence-based care.
“I conclude my time at Ontario Shores with an incredible amount of gratitude and pride,” says Mamdani. “It has been an honour to serve this organization and I am tremendously proud of all that we have achieved together. Ontario Shores is a special place to work and receive care and I extend my utmost appreciation to everyone who has been a part of my career here.”
When he became CEO, he set a goal of enhancing our sense of community and creating a hospital where everyone can thrive. Through robust employee engagement efforts, unit visits, CEO lunches, wellness strategies, patient experience strategies, and recovery-focused care, Ontario Shores is a place where staff, patients, caregivers, students, and volunteers are supported, cared for and can grow.
“Karim has made many significant and lasting contributions to Ontario Shores,” says Ann Weir, Chair, Board of Directors. “His steadfast leadership, passion for mental health and deep commitment to Ontario Shores over the past 18 years has been a source of tremendous value for the board and the hospital.”
As it prepares for the future, Ontario Shores is delighted to announce that John Chen, vice-president, clinical services and chief operating officer will step into the role of president and CEO on August 1, 2025.
Chen has also been with Ontario Shores since 2006. He has led a number of significant initiatives for the organization including the implementation of its electronic health record system, its more recent human resources information system, along with many corporate action plans, including genomics, employee engagement and retention, advanced analytics and population health, just to name a few.
“John’s innovative approach, strong financial management and spirit of collaboration will serve Ontario Shores well,” said Weir.
Mamdani will remain in an advisory role for nine months, providing guidance and support as the organization transitions to new leadership.