2023 Annual Report
Chief Executive Officer’s Message
Cheryl Hodder KC
Chief Executive Officer
Since joining the Society in September 2022, two observations emerged: 1) We have accomplished a great deal, but we have much to do; and 2) We are dedicated to progress, all of us—members, Council, employees and community collaborators alike—and we are fortunate to have such an impressive crew of hard-working, diverse, intelligent, experienced professionals, all committed to a strong and supportive future for our profession, our industry, and our province.
As one might guess, the past nine months have been exceptionally busy, and I look forward to sharing more about this work with our members. First, I want to thank Jackie Mullenger for her time as acting Executive Director, and for her dedication to ensuring my smooth transition into the organization. Having her support has been essential to my ability to hit the ground running. I would also like to acknowledge the support I have received from Council and from our President Melanie Petrunia; their guidance has provided a clear direction for the work we have begun.
In the early months, my priority was to connect with the Society team, engage in conversations with Council and committees, and hear from members about their concerns and aspirations. I have benefitted greatly from this guidance, and I am inspired on a daily basis by the level of engagement and optimism we share. This time also landed at the intersection of two opportunities: the world’s emergence from a global pandemic and the beginning of a new strategic planning cycle. We already have begun researching and engaging with interested parties to determine priorities. Interestingly, we are recognizing we must adapt our own workplace while creating a regulatory environment that enables the same workplace shifts to flourish. The pandemic also revealed a genuine need for the Society to contemplate the wellness of members. I want members to know it is my steadfast belief that these factors are interconnected and therefore central to our plans moving forward.
A fundamental step on our road ahead is receiving and addressing Mr. Douglas Ruck’s review and recommendations on systemic discrimination. On that front, I am looking forward to working with our Equity and Access team, Council, and our four Equity Committees, and the Implementation Task Force to continue the important work Mr. Ruck has begun. Our approach to this work should be comprehensive and intersectional, and we will commit ourselves to making the profession inclusive for all members and the public.
A regulatory approach that is both dynamic and innovative is necessary to ensure our Bar thrives in a new world. I believe the Society has the capacity to reimagine what it means to be a professional regulator in 2023, while still advancing public interest responsibly. By striking this balance, we will succeed in fulfilling our mandate amid rapidly changing times.
The next year for the Society will be characterized by innovation, adaptability and good governance. The combination of these elements will make us the regulator the public, and our members, trust us to be. I look forward to the year ahead and all that we will accomplish.
Cheryl Hodder KC
Chief Executive Officer