The Honourable Tony Wakeham, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today announced changes to the senior leadership at Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services.
Effective immediately Ron Johnson is appointed as Interim Chief Executive Officer of Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services, replacing Dr. Patrick Parfrey who is to be recognized for the long service and dedication he has provided to health care in our province.
Ron Johnson most recently served as Vice-President of Digital Health, Innovation, and Research, as well as Chief Information Officer for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services. With nearly 30 years of progressive health care experience spanning front-line delivery to executive management, Ron has demonstrated comprehensive leadership across innovation, technology, and rural health initiatives. Ron’s proven track record in strategic management and commitment to advancing health services highlight his suitability for this pivotal role.
In addition to executive leadership changes at Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services, Premier Wakeham is also announcing changes to the Board of Trustees of Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services.
The Board of Trustees of Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services is responsible for the delivery and administration of health and community services in the province. The Board consists of individuals with various skills and experiences from each region of our province.
Ross Wiseman is being appointed as a Trustee and Interim Chairperson of the Board of Trustees. Bob Andrews has agreed to remain on the Board as a Trustee, and we thank him for his dedicated service and leadership in strengthening health care across Newfoundland and Labrador during his tenure as Chairperson.
Ross Wiseman, E.C.N.L. is an experienced public‑sector leader with more than three decades of high‑impact work across government, statutory bodies, and public institutions. He brings extensive expertise in board governance, fiduciary oversight, public accountability, and strategic stewardship. He is widely recognized for exercising independent judgment and results‑driven decision making in complex and politically sensitive environments. Ross has a proven record of ethical leadership, strong risk management, fulfilling statutory responsibilities, and long‑term organizational sustainability. He most recently served on the Health Accord Task Force. Ross has had successful careers in banking, health‑system administration, and provincial politics. As a Cabinet Minister, he held several portfolios, including Health and Community Services and Finance. He has a long history of community volunteerism, including service as a school board trustee, minor hockey coach and executive member, and a leader in Scouting.
Quotes
“I would like to thank Dr. Pat Parfrey and Bob Andrews for their hard work and commitment to the people of the province. Having worked with Ron and Ross over the years, I can attest to their strong leadership skills which will guide us as we deliver on our commitment to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians – a commitment to delivering better health care.”
Honourable Tony Wakeham
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“As the Minister of Health and Community Services and the Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services, I look forward to working with the new Interim Chief Executive Officer and Interim Chairperson. Working together, we will improve how and where health care is provided for all of us.”
Honourable Lela Evans
Minister of Health and Community Services
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