The Board of Directors of Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) announced Brian Schoonbaert as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Regional Health Authority. Schoonbaert takes the reins from Penny Gilson, who will retire effective May 31, after nine years as head of PMH.
Schoonbaert was the former CEO of Brandon Regional Health Authority (BRHA) before provincial health authority amalgamations in 2012 combined the BRHA with the Assiniboine and Parkland RHAs. Following the merger, he held a number of other executive roles within PMH.
Acting PMH Board Chairperson Mark Frison says advancing the region’s strategic goals, objectives, health planning processes and both staff and community engagement opportunities will continue to move forward under the leadership of Mr. Schoonbaert.
“Brian comes with the requisite wealth of experience related to both the provincial health care sector and within the health region. We are indeed fortunate to have him take the lead of our organization and look forward to working with him in his new role.”
The Board expressed sincere thanks and appreciation for Gilson’s commitment, dedication and strong leadership as CEO of the health region. On behalf of management and staff, the Board wishes her all the best during her retirement.
Schoonbaert says he is excited for the opportunity to rejoin the dynamic organization.
“I am looking forward to reconnecting and engaging once again with the staff at PMH after my secondment to the Transformation Management Office (TMO). I enter this new role knowing that I am not performing it alone, but rather alongside an incredible team of 7,500 individuals who, like me, are dedicated and committed to providing quality health care services to the residents of PMH.”
Since 2018, Schoonbaert has participated in and led several projects related to the provincial Transformation Management Office.
From 2012-2018, he was the PMH VP of Finance, (CFO), Capital Support Services and Chief Operating Officer of Brandon Regional Health Centre. He held VP of Finance and Information Services roles from 1994-2011 for both Brandon General Hospital and the BRHA.
Schoonbaert also holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honors) degree and CPA (Chartered Accountant) designation.
