Kelly McWilliams Named New Acclaim Health CEO as of July 2024

Kelly McWilliams will become Acclaim Health’s new CEO in July 2024 upon the retirement of Acclaim Health’s current CEO, Angela Brewer at the end of June.

“We are thrilled that Kelly McWilliams has accepted the role as Acclaim Health CEO,” says Cindy Heinz, Acclaim Health Board Chair. “The recruitment process was thorough and rigorous, and many high calibre candidates expressed interest in leading this amazing organization.  However it quickly became clear that Kelly’s passion, experience and approach were by far the best fit.”

Currently Acclaim Health’s Senior Director of Health Services, Kelly brings extensive healthcare experience to her new role, alongside a deep understanding of the people and communities that Acclaim Health cares for.  As a registered nurse, she has decades of healthcare experience in a variety of settings – including several leadership roles in managing emergency department care.  Prior to joining Acclaim Health Kelly was Director of Emergency, Mental Health and Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence for the Guelph General Hospital.   As a healthcare leader, she has used her experience to help better integrate care for patients and their families.  Her strong, collaborative relationships with partners such as Home and Community Care Support Services and the Ontario Health Teams in Burlington, Halton and Mississauga mean that Acclaim Health can effectively advocate for patients and address community needs. She is currently finishing her MBA and will graduate in June 2024.

“I am so honoured to be chosen as the new CEO for this organization,” says Kelly.  “What makes Acclaim Health special is the incredible culture of caring, collaboration and excellence we have created.  I want to build on that and ensure that everyone – patients, clients, staff members, volunteers, donors, supporters, partners and our community – feels they are a part of our team.  This is the only way Acclaim Health will continue to thrive, innovate and provide extraordinary community care long into the future.”

“Kelly has the respect of patients, clients and staff because of her frontline experience,” says Angela Brewer, Acclaim Health’s retiring CEO. “Her track record as a leader who can quickly adapt to the changing healthcare landscape has earned her the respect of our partners.  I’m very confident that I will be leaving Acclaim Health in good hands.”

Kelly will officially become Acclaim Health CEO on July 1, 2024, but will work closely with Angela as of April 15, 2024 to ensure a successful transition.  Please join us on Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at the Operating Engineers Banquet Hall in Oakville to celebrate Angela’s 30+ years of leadership at Acclaim Health and to introduce Kelly as Acclaim Health’s new CEO.  More details regarding this event to come.