January 18, 2023, Halifax, NS – Catherine J. Woodman has become a Partner with KBRS to lead executive searches within the non-profit, health, and community sectors.
Catherine has deep executive experience combined with a remarkable volunteer service record. She will direct her talents to help organizations find future leaders and make a positive community impact.
Formerly United Way Halifax CEO, Catherine is Chair, IWK Health Centre board of directors and board member, IWK Foundation. She and daughter Maura co-founded and lead Joan’s Table – an initiative to feed the formerly homeless in partnership with Shelter Nova Scotia.
Last weekend Catherine was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal in recognition of her outstanding volunteer service. She has previously chaired the boards of Mount Saint Vincent University, Immigrant Service Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS), 2b Theatre Company, Lieutenant Governor’s Community Spirit Award, and served as a director on many other boards.
“Catherine is a recognized award-winning leader, with extensive experience at the executive level in health care, private, non-profit, and public organizations. She deftly and respectfully helps organizations navigate the most challenging leadership decisions,” said Andrea Forbes-Hurley, Managing Partner, KBRS. “We’re seizing the opportunity to expand her scope and offer her informed counsel to clients across the region as they look for the right leaders for key positions.”
“I’ve sat in both the CEO and the Board Chair’s seats,” says Catherine. “I understand the weight of these roles and their far-reaching influence. This new career chapter is motivated by my desire for legacy and impact. Making a meaningful difference is energizing.”
Catherine began her career at the IWK Health Centre holding progressive roles culminating as Vice President, Allied Health/Public Relations. She became Director, Corporate and Public Affairs for Maritime Life Assurance Company and later appointed Vice President of Human Resources for Maritime Life/Manulife Financial. Catherine was President and CEO, Halifax United Way for ten years where she was recognized as one of the top 50 CEOs in Atlantic Canada before accepting the role of Deputy Minister, Department of Business, Nova Scotia.
A senior consultant with the leadership and HR solutions practice of KBRS since 2017, Catherine will continue to work with organizations and leaders as a trusted advisor on board governance and leadership development.
Established in 1975, the KBRS team of over 70 professionals recruit and develop talented contributors within Atlantic Canada and across North America. As a part of the executive search practice, Catherine will work alongside a team of experienced Executive Search Partners focused on supporting the diverse needs of client organizations and leaders.
Media Contact:
Alison Chandler, Director, Client and Employee Experience, achandler@kbrs.ca
