Janet Knox set to retire as NSHA president and CEO

The president and CEO of the Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) will retire this summer after nearly five years on the job.

Janet Knox’s last day will be Aug. 30.

Knox helped in the planning and creation of the NSHA in 2014 after the province’s decision to merge nine health authorities into one provincial entity.

“Janet provided leadership through the planning and creation of NSHA and through the first four years of operation. Essentially, she was asked to build the largest organization in this province, and she rose to the occasion with unwavering commitment and grace,” said Frank van Schaayk, chair of the board of directors for the NSHA, in a statement.

“We respect her decision to retire and we will miss her leadership. Janet’s knowledge and experience, as well as her vision for health in Nova Scotia, is admirable.”

Knox began her career as a registered nurse 40 years ago and was previously the president and CEO of Annapolis Valley Health for 10 years.

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“I’ve been fortunate to have such a fulfilling career in the health system. I still have the same passion for it as I did when I began my nursing career, but it’s time for change,” said Knox in a statement.

“We’ve made a lot of progress over the past five years and there’s smart, innovative leadership in place throughout the organization. I’m confident in the timing of this decision. Nova Scotia is my home and I intend to contribute to our province in every way I can in the next phase of my life journey.”

The board will begin an executive search for Knox’s replacement in the next few weeks.