The Proximity Institute Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Susan Brown as Proximity’s next President & Chief Executive Officer. This appointment follows a thorough search process. 

Susan is a seasoned healthcare executive with extensive experience in the Ontario hospital sector. Her background includes senior leadership roles at Sinai Health, University Health Network, and Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital in the areas of strategy, transformation, and people and culture, with a strong record of supporting CEOs and executive teams. She has built deep and trusted relationships across the sector, and brings a collaborative, future-focused approach to leadership.  

“I am honoured to join Proximity. Supporting and strengthening Ontario hospital leaders has been my life’s work, and I am excited to partner with the sector to advance leadership excellence and its continuity,” says Susan.  

Susan is widely recognized for her ability to translate vision into leadership action, build strong partnerships, and lead change with clarity, accountability, and care. Her background, professional credentials, and commitment to leadership development align strongly with Proximity’s mandate. 

“We are delighted to welcome Susan to Proximity,” says Dr. Gary Newton, Chair of the Proximity Board of Directors. “Susan brings a rare combination of strategic insight, executive experience, and transformational capability, and is deeply committed to strengthening leadership across Ontario’s hospitals. She is exceptionally well suited to lead Proximity’s next chapter.” 

Susan will begin in her role on February 23, 2026, and will work closely with Proximity’s outgoing CEO, Annie Tobias, to ensure a seamless transition. 

About Proximity Institute

Proximity Institute (Proximity) is an independent charitable organization dedicated to leadership development at the most senior level in Ontario hospitals. Our mandate is leadership development and change leadership. Our purpose is enabling effective leadership. Our long-term ambition is to work collaboratively with Ontario hospitals to identify, develop and ready a quality pipeline of emerging CEO talent. Proximity was founded by the Ontario Hospital Association (OHA).