New President and CEO appointed to Mental Health Commission of Canada

CALGARY, March 10 /CNW Telbec/ - The Honourable Michael Kirby, Chair of the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), announced today that Louise Bradley has been appointed the new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Commission. She will assume her new duties effective April 1, 2010.

"As Chief Operating Officer (COO), Louise has demonstrated outstanding leadership and tireless commitment to helping the Commission make significant progress in advancing its major initiatives," says Kirby. "MHCC's Board of Directors is delighted that she has been appointed the Commission's next President and CEO."

While Bradley was COO, the MHCC launched three of its four key initiatives; the Mental Health Strategy for Canada, the Opening Minds anti-stigma campaign, and the Mental Health and Homelessness Research Project. A program director was recently hired to set up the MHCC's fourth initiative, the Knowledge Exchange Centre (KEC).

"The work of the Commission is going to make a difference for every single Canadian," says Bradley. "In one way or another we are all affected by mental health issues either in ourselves, or someone we know. I am honoured to take on this new role within such an important undertaking."

Prior joining the Commission's senior leadership team, Bradley was Vice-President and COO, Mental Health for Capital Health in Edmonton. During her career she has been actively involved in providing professional mental health advice and support - leading the integration of provincial health programs and managing the needs of a wide variety of stakeholders in both Atlantic and Western Canada. Bradley is a Registered Nurse and holds a Master of Science degree, specializing in mental health.

The Commission's Board of Directors began its search for a new President and CEO following Michael Howlett's announcement in January that he was stepping down effective March 31, 2010. Kirby says the Board decided to look internally for a replacement before looking outside of the MHCC.

The MHCC is a non-profit organization created to focus national attention on mental health issues. It is funded by the federal government but operates at arm's length from government. The Commission's objective is to enhance the health and social outcomes for Canadians living with mental health problems and illnesses.

For further information: Micheal Pietrus, Director of Communications, [phone]