Fraser Health Appoints Dermot Kelly as New CEO Following Transition

Fraser Health has appointed Dermot Kelly as its new Chief Executive Officer, following the interim tenure of Lynn Stevenson, who stepped in after the departure of former CEO Victoria Lee. The announcement, made on Monday, highlights Kelly’s extensive experience of more than 20 years in British Columbia’s health system, with the last six years dedicated to Fraser Health.

In a statement, Opreet Kang, chair of the Fraser Health Board, expressed enthusiasm for Kelly’s leadership qualities. Kang noted, “We are thrilled to welcome Dermot into this role,” emphasizing Kelly’s ability to cultivate meaningful relationships and prioritize the needs of patients, staff, and communities.

Prior to this appointment, Kelly served as Vice President responsible for strategic planning and operations within multiple healthcare programs, including maternity, infant, child, and youth services, as well as medical imaging. He also played a significant role in patient care and quality management during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fraser Health is the largest health authority in British Columbia, providing services to communities ranging from Burnaby to Boston Bar. Kelly’s appointment comes at a time when the healthcare system faces scrutiny, particularly regarding executive compensation amidst ongoing challenges with long waiting lists and staffing shortages.

Stevenson stepped in as interim CEO in February 2024, after Lee’s resignation. Lee’s severance package has drawn criticism, amounting to over $609,000 based on an annual salary of approximately $377,000, which includes various benefits and will be disbursed in instalments until next August.

As Fraser Health transitions into this new leadership phase, many stakeholders are looking to Kelly to address the pressing issues facing the healthcare system in the region. The organization has not yet disclosed Kelly’s salary details, with inquiries still pending.

This appointment marks a pivotal moment for Fraser Health as it seeks to enhance care delivery and improve the overall health outcomes for the communities it serves.