Medical Officer of Health - Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH)

Protect and promote the health of a vibrant, diverse region—through clinical leadership, systems thinking, and community partnership

Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) is one of Ontario’s newest public health organizations, formed on January 1, 2025, through the voluntary merger of the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit and the Brant County Health Unit. Uniting two proud and respected legacy organizations, GEPH serves a growing and diverse population across urban, rural, and Indigenous communities—driven by a shared mission to promote, protect, and enhance the health of all who call Grand Erie home.

Now, as we continue our journey of transformation and integration, we are seeking a collaborative, equity-driven clinical leader to serve as our Medical Officer of Health (MOH).

Reporting directly to the Board of Health, the MOH will serve as the senior public health official for GEPH and provide expert leadership in all matters related to population and community health, health protection, and disease prevention. The MOH will work closely with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Senior Leadership Team to guide the organization’s public health priorities, ensure compliance with legislative and regulatory obligations, and advance a bold vision for health equity and system integration.

This is a critical leadership role at a formative time for GEPH—offering the opportunity to shape strategy, lead public health transformation, and build trust across communities, governments, and partners.

You are a physician with a passion for population health and a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing public health today. You lead with integrity, collaborate with purpose, and bring a calm, credible voice to complex and rapidly evolving issues.

You are:

• A certified physician licensed to practice in Ontario and qualified under the Health Protection and Promotion Act (HPPA) to serve as a Medical Officer of Health
• Ideally a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in Public Health and Preventive Medicine, or equivalent
• A clinician with extensive experience in public health program leadership, health system partnerships, and evidence-informed policy development
• A systems thinker who can translate data into actionable insight and strategic direction
• A collaborative leader who can work across teams, sectors, and communities to advance population health outcomes
• A trusted communicator and public health spokesperson, capable of guiding decision-makers and engaging the public in clear, evidence-based dialogue
• Committed to advancing health equity, reconciliation, and culturally safe approaches to public health delivery
• Grounded in public service and motivated to contribute to the long-term health and well-being of diverse populations

You bring a strong foundation in public health practice, complemented by medical expertise and a systems-level perspective.

Your qualifications include:

• Medical degree and current license to practice medicine in Ontario
• Certification in Public Health and Preventive Medicine (FRCPC) or equivalent designation recognized by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario
• Meets the qualifications of a Medical Officer of Health as outlined in the Health Protection and Promotion Act (HPPA)
• A minimum of five years of progressively senior leadership experience in public health, health system administration, or a related field
• Demonstrated experience providing evidence-informed public health guidance and leading multidisciplinary teams
• Familiarity with the Ontario Public Health Standards, public health legislation, and the evolving health system landscape in Ontario
• Proven ability to engage diverse communities, lead in crisis situations, and collaborate effectively with Indigenous and municipal partners
• Advanced training in epidemiology, health promotion, or related areas is considered an asset

Because our team is exceptional—and the opportunity is extraordinary.

• Be part of a dynamic, people-powered health unit that is redefining public health at a local and regional level
• Help build an organization from the ground up—with the ability to shape priorities, programs, and partnerships
• Work alongside an equity-focused CEO, an engaged Board of Health, and a collaborative Senior Leadership Team in a supportive leadership environment
• Serve a region rich in culture, history, and diversity—where urban centres meet rural communities and Indigenous voices help shape the future
• Have a meaningful impact in a role that blends medical leadership with systems change

As Medical Officer of Health, you will:

• Provide medical and scientific oversight for all public health programs and services delivered by GEPH
• Act as the trusted public face of GEPH—engaging with media, community partners, and the public to communicate timely, accurate, and accessible public health information
• Ensure compliance with the Ontario Public Health Standards, HPPA, and other relevant legislation
• Guide public health strategy, epidemiology, emergency response, and health promotion activities
• Serve as the organization’s clinical and policy voice—providing evidence-informed advice to the Board, CEO, municipalities, and the public
• Advocate for public health priorities across all levels of government and represent GEPH in provincial and national public health discussions
• Lead community education efforts and engage the public on health risks, prevention strategies, and evidence-based interventions
• Collaborate with the CEO and Senior Leadership Team to shape integrated, community-informed public health services
• Foster relationships with municipal councils, Indigenous communities, system partners, and the Ministry of Health
• Provide visible, accountable leadership in times of public health crisis or community need
• Champion initiatives that address the social determinants of health, promote equity, and strengthen long-term population outcomes