(Saint John, NB) – The Saint John Regional Hospital Foundation (SJRHF) Board of Directors is pleased to announce Shannon Hunter’s appointment as incoming President & CEO, effective April 1, 2024.

In October 2023, Jamie Gallagher shared with the Board his intention to step down as President & CEO on March 31, 2024 to return to the private sector. He will work closely with Hunter over the next three months to ensure a seamless transition.

Hunter will move into the role from her current position of Vice President.

Since joining the Foundation in 2020, Hunter has played a pivotal role, working with her colleagues to elevate the organization’s marketing and fundraising activities, strengthen employee engagement and retention, and break fundraising records, all to benefit patients, families and the health care community.

“As part of the executive team, Shannon has led all aspects of our operations,” says John Bujold, Chair of the Board of Directors. “From employee development and brand management to direct marketing and donor relations, she is a dynamic and authentic leader, committed to creating a culture that fosters innovation, growth and excellence.”

Jamie Gallagher, President & CEO, agrees that Hunter is well-positioned to move into the role. “Shannon has the experience, skills and credentials to lead the Foundation into the next chapter,” he says. “Her strategic approach, track record for inspiring generosity, prioritization of donor stewardship and passion for advancing health care in the region will take the Foundation – and the impact our donors help us to make – to new heights.”

Hunter says that as she moves into her new seat, she will continue to prioritize relationships with donors, the Foundation team, health care partners and the community to achieve results.

“Our community has tremendous passion and dedication for improving health care access and delivery,” she says. “I am honoured to continue leading our team in inspiring others to join our mission to advance health care services for patients and their loved ones, in New Brunswick.”

Hunter’s appointment follows a Board-led selection process, chaired by SJRHF Board Secretary and human resources executive Colleen Baxter. The Board unanimously approved the selection committee’s recommendation to appoint Hunter President & CEO.

The Foundation will undertake a process to recruit the role of Vice President in the coming weeks.