A well-known name in healthcare in Waterloo Region is retiring.
Waterloo Regional Health Network (WRHN) President and CEO Ron Gagnon is set to wrap up a long and successful career next year.
His official retirement date is March 31, 2027.
Gagnon joined Grand River Hospital in 2018 and was the inaugural President and CEO of WRHN. He also has over 25 years of senior leadership experience under his belt.
“It has been a privilege to serve alongside the people of WRHN and our many partners across Waterloo Region,” said Gagnon.
“I am proud of what we have accomplished together and confident in the path ahead. The work underway today is creating a stronger future for healthcare in this community, and I know WRHN will continue to move forward with purpose and compassion.”
Gagnon was a key player in the merging of Grand River Hospital and St Mary’s General Hospital in 2025 and in the planning for the new hospital to be built at the University of Waterloo.
As for who will fill the big shoes left by Gagnon, the WRHN Board of Directors is set to begin the recruitment process this summer, with the hope of hiring someone by later this year who will be in place by March 2027.
“Ron Gagnon has provided extraordinary leadership during a period of profound challenges and change in healthcare, and his vision, steadiness, and commitment to putting people first have helped shape a stronger future for care in our region,” said Chair of the WRHN Board of Directors Janet Davidson.
Though in the works, no plans have been announced at this point as to how Gagnon will be recognized.
