Mississippi River Health Alliance Welcomes Michel Vermette as New Chair of the Allied Boards of Directors

Press Release – Mississippi River Health Alliance

The Mississippi River Health Alliance (MRHA) is proud to announce the election of Michel G. Vermette as Chair of the Allied Boards of Directors, representing Almonte General Hospital, Carleton Place & District Memorial Hospital, Fairview Manor, and Lanark County Paramedic Service.

Vermette succeeds Lyman Gardiner, who has provided exceptional leadership as Chair over the past two years. Lyman will continue to serve as Past Chair, providing valuable counsel and continuity.

“Serving on the Allied Boards over the past six years has been a rewarding experience, and I’m honoured to now take on the role of Chair,” said Vermette. “I look forward to working closely with my fellow board members, our senior leadership team, and community partners to continue building on the strong foundation we have in place. Together, we will advance initiatives that improve access to care, strengthen our services, and ensure our hospitals, long-term care home, and paramedic service remain vital resources for the people we serve.”

With nearly 40 years of service to Canadians, including two decades as a senior executive in the Canadian Federal Public Service, Vermette brings deep leadership expertise and a commitment to community. His career includes senior roles with the Canadian Coast Guard, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the Canadian Blood Agency, and Canadian Blood Services. From 2015 to 2019, he served as Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Professional Executives of the Public Service of Canada (APEX), a national not-for-profit supporting Canada’s senior public service leaders.

Vermette holds a Bachelor and Master of Science (Biology) from the University of Ottawa, a Master of Business Administration from Western University, and a Parliamentary Intern. He joined the Almonte General Hospital Board of Directors in 2019 and was elected to the Allied Boards of Directors in 2022. In addition to his MRHA governance work, he also sits on other boards in Lanark County and enjoys tending to his farm.

“We are delighted to welcome Michel into the role of Chair,” said Brad Harrington, President and CEO of the MRHA. “His leadership experience, commitment to community, and strategic vision will be invaluable as we continue working together to strengthen local health care.”

The MRHA Allied Boards of Directors provide coordinated governance for Almonte General Hospital, Carleton Place & District Memorial Hospital, Fairview Manor, and Lanark County  Paramedic Service, ensuring shared leadership and resources to deliver high-quality, accessible care across the region.