Erie Shores HealthCare Announces Interim Leadership Transition
Erie Shores HealthCare has unveiled a significant leadership change, naming a new interim president and chief executive officer to guide the organization through a period of transition. The hospital's board of directors made the announcement on Monday, confirming the appointment of Katelyn Dryden to the top executive role.
New Interim CEO Brings Financial and Operational Expertise
Katelyn Dryden, who currently serves as Erie Shores HealthCare's chief financial officer and vice-president of outpatient services, will assume her new responsibilities beginning March 23. With her extensive background in healthcare finance and administration, Dryden brings a wealth of institutional knowledge to the position.
"I'm grateful for the board's confidence and for the opportunity to serve our community in this role," said Dryden. "Erie Shores has an exceptional team, and our work continues without interruption. My priority is to support our people, maintain safe and reliable care close to home, and ensure a smooth transition in the months ahead."
Dryden emphasized that her focus will center on three key areas: stability, teamwork, and maintaining momentum on the hospital's established priorities. Her appointment comes as part of a broader leadership reshuffle within the regional healthcare network.
Leadership Changes Across Regional Healthcare System
Dryden will replace Kristin Kennedy, who is departing Erie Shores HealthCare to assume the role of president and CEO at Windsor Regional Hospital. Kennedy's last day at the Leamington-based facility will be March 22, marking the end of her tenure with the organization.
"I'm proud of what our teams have accomplished and confident in the strength of Erie Shores' leadership," said Kennedy. "I look forward to supporting Katelyn and the organization through a thoughtful transition."
This leadership change at Windsor Regional Hospital comes as Karen Riddell, the current CEO, prepares to retire on March 31. The simultaneous transitions create a unique period of change within the regional healthcare landscape.
Structured Transition and Continuity Planning
The hospital board has implemented a careful transition plan to ensure continuity of operations. Dryden will work closely with Kennedy during what has been described as a "structured transition period" before officially stepping into her new position.
One immediate consideration is the vacancy created by Dryden's move from her current role. The hospital board has yet to announce an interim chief financial officer to fill the position she leaves behind, indicating that additional appointments may follow in the coming weeks.
Professional Background and Qualifications
Dryden brings impressive credentials to her new role. She is a Chartered Professional Accountant and holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Windsor's Odette School of Business. Her educational background provides a strong foundation for the financial and strategic aspects of hospital leadership.
Before joining Erie Shores HealthCare, Dryden accumulated extensive experience in the healthcare sector through senior roles with TransForm Shared Service Organization. This shared services provider supports multiple healthcare institutions across southwestern Ontario, including:
- Bluewater Health in Sarnia
- Chatham-Kent Health Alliance
- Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare
- Tilbury District Family Health Team
- Windsor Regional Hospital
- Erie Shores HealthCare
During her tenure at TransForm, Dryden's responsibilities encompassed project management, value analytics, and supply chain operations. This diverse experience has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of healthcare administration across multiple dimensions.
Board Confidence in Leadership Continuity
Erie Shores board chair Duffy Kniaziew expressed strong support for the appointment, highlighting the importance of maintaining stability during this transitional period.
"This appointment ensures strong, stable leadership and continuity for our patients, families, and staff," said Kniaziew. "Katelyn has the experience, knowledge of our organization, and steady leadership approach needed to guide Erie Shores through this transition and keep our focus where it belongs, on safe care close to home."
Kniaziew also took the opportunity to acknowledge Kennedy's contributions to the organization and the broader community, thanking her for her dedicated leadership and service during her time with Erie Shores HealthCare.
The leadership transition comes at a time when healthcare organizations across Canada face numerous challenges, making stable and experienced leadership particularly valuable. Dryden's appointment represents both continuity and change, as she brings fresh perspective while maintaining institutional knowledge and established relationships within the healthcare network.
