CMHA National Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

CMHA National has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and governance.

Dedicated to advancing mental well-being, CMHA National provides essential advocacy, education, research, and direct support services to individuals facing mental health challenges across Canada, solidifying its impact on national health.

Leadership Roles at CMHA National

  • Chief Executive Officer - Ellen Watkins
  • Chief Executive Officer, Officerncanadian Mental Health Association Haliburton - Melanie Graham
  • Chief Operating Officer - Joseph Kim
  • Board President - Christopher Yendt
  • President - Michael Moses
  • President - Kelly Howey
  • Board Member - President - Debra Dawe
  • Case Manager Chief Technology Officer East - Rand Hilaneh
  • Chief Operations Officer - Anne MacPhee
  • Privacy Designate Administration Team For Manager Assistant & Chief People Officer, Administration Governance - Joanne Brown
  • Ellen Watkins - Chief Executive Officer

    Ellen Watkins, the Chief Executive Officer at CMHA National, directs the organization's overarching strategy and operational framework. This leadership position involves guiding the association's mission to provide comprehensive mental health services and support throughout Canada. Watkins oversees the integration of advocacy, education, research, and direct service delivery, ensuring alignment with the organization's core objectives. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering key relationships with stakeholders, government bodies, and community partners to advance mental health initiatives nationwide. Ellen Watkins drives the strategic vision for expanding the reach and impact of CMHA National's programs, focusing on enhancing accessibility and effectiveness of mental health care across all regions of Canada. This role is pivotal in shaping the organization's response to evolving mental health needs and policy landscapes.

    Melanie Graham - Chief Executive Officer, Officerncanadian Mental Health Association Haliburton

    Melanie Graham, the Chief Executive Officer, Officerncanadian Mental Health Association Haliburton at CMHA National, spearheads the strategic direction and operational management for the Haliburton region. This executive leadership focuses on delivering localized mental health services and support tailored to community needs. Graham oversees the implementation of advocacy, education, and research initiatives within the Haliburton area, ensuring direct impact on individuals experiencing mental illness. The Chief Executive Officer, Officerncanadian Mental Health Association Haliburton's responsibilities include fostering community partnerships and managing resources to enhance service accessibility. Melanie Graham drives the expansion of CMHA's presence and effectiveness in Haliburton, ensuring robust support systems are in place and contributing to the broader national mission of mental well-being. This role is vital for localized service delivery and community engagement.

    Joseph Kim - Chief Operating Officer

    Joseph Kim, the Chief Operating Officer at CMHA National, manages the day-to-day operational execution of the organization's extensive service network. This role is critical for ensuring the efficient delivery of mental health services, advocacy efforts, and educational programs across Canada. Kim oversees the operational integration of research findings into practical service models, enhancing the effectiveness of support provided to individuals experiencing mental illness. The Chief Operating Officer's purview includes optimizing resource allocation, streamlining internal processes, and ensuring compliance with organizational standards and regulatory requirements. Joseph Kim drives operational excellence, focusing on scalability and sustainability of CMHA National's initiatives, thereby strengthening the association's capacity to meet the diverse mental health needs of the Canadian population. This leadership ensures seamless coordination across various departments and regional operations.

    Christopher Yendt - Board President

    Christopher Yendt, the Board President at CMHA National, provides strategic oversight and leadership to the organization's governing board. This role is pivotal in guiding the overall direction and governance framework of CMHA National, ensuring alignment with its mission to provide mental health services and support. Yendt presides over board meetings, facilitates strategic discussions, and ensures accountability in the execution of organizational objectives. The Board President's responsibilities include fostering a collaborative board environment and ensuring effective governance practices are maintained. Christopher Yendt plays a key role in championing the organization's advocacy, education, and research efforts, contributing to the advancement of mental health initiatives across Canada. This leadership ensures strong governance and strategic direction.

    Michael Moses - President

    Michael Moses, the President at CMHA National, leads the organization's strategic initiatives and operational oversight. This executive position is fundamental to driving the mission of providing comprehensive mental health services and support throughout Canada. Moses directs efforts in advocacy, education, and research, ensuring these pillars effectively contribute to improving mental well-being. The President's responsibilities include fostering key partnerships and ensuring the organization's resources are optimally utilized to serve individuals experiencing mental illness. Michael Moses champions the advancement of mental health care, focusing on expanding access and enhancing the quality of services offered nationwide. This leadership ensures robust strategic execution and organizational impact.

    Kelly Howey - President

    Kelly Howey, the President at CMHA National, directs strategic planning and operational execution for the organization. This leadership role is crucial for advancing CMHA National's commitment to delivering essential mental health services and support across Canada. Howey oversees the integration of advocacy, education, and research programs, ensuring they effectively address the needs of individuals experiencing mental illness. The President's responsibilities include guiding the organization's growth and impact, fostering collaborations, and ensuring efficient resource management. Kelly Howey drives the strategic vision for enhancing mental health care accessibility and quality, contributing significantly to the association's national objectives. This leadership ensures sustained progress and effective service delivery.

    Debra Dawe - Board Member - President

    Debra Dawe, the Board Member - President at CMHA National, provides critical governance and strategic guidance to the organization. This role is integral to overseeing the association's mission of delivering mental health services and support across Canada. Dawe contributes to board-level decision-making, ensuring that advocacy, education, and research initiatives align with CMHA National's objectives. The Board Member - President's responsibilities include upholding governance standards and supporting the executive team in achieving organizational goals. Debra Dawe plays a vital part in shaping the strategic direction and ensuring the long-term sustainability of CMHA National's efforts to assist individuals experiencing mental illness. This leadership ensures strong oversight and strategic alignment.

    Rand Hilaneh - Case Manager Chief Technology Officer East

    Rand Hilaneh, the Case Manager Chief Technology Officer East at CMHA National, leads the technological infrastructure and case management systems for the eastern regions. This dual-focused role ensures that technology effectively supports the delivery of mental health services and case management processes. Hilaneh oversees the development and implementation of digital solutions that enhance client support, data management, and operational efficiency across eastern Canada. The Case Manager Chief Technology Officer East's responsibilities include driving innovation in technology to improve service accessibility and impact for individuals experiencing mental illness. Rand Hilaneh ensures that technological advancements align with CMHA National's mission, providing robust tools for case managers and support staff to deliver high-quality care. This leadership is crucial for modernizing service delivery and expanding technological reach.

    Anne MacPhee - Chief Operations Officer

    Anne MacPhee, the Chief Operations Officer at CMHA National, directs the operational strategies and execution across the organization's service delivery network. This executive role is central to ensuring the seamless and effective provision of mental health services, advocacy, and educational programs nationwide. MacPhee oversees the optimization of operational workflows, resource management, and the implementation of best practices to enhance service quality and reach. The Chief Operations Officer's responsibilities include driving efficiency improvements and ensuring that operational frameworks support the organization's mission to assist individuals experiencing mental illness. Anne MacPhee focuses on strengthening the operational capacity of CMHA National, enabling greater impact and accessibility of mental health support across Canada. This leadership ensures robust operational integrity and scalability.

    Joanne Brown - Privacy Designate Administration Team For Manager Assistant & Chief People Officer, Administration Governance

    Joanne Brown, the Privacy Designate Administration Team For Manager Assistant & Chief People Officer, Administration Governance at CMHA National, oversees critical functions related to human resources, administration, and governance. This comprehensive role ensures robust people management strategies and adherence to privacy standards across the organization. Brown directs initiatives focused on employee development, organizational culture, and ensuring compliance with administrative and governance protocols. The Privacy Designate Administration Team For Manager Assistant & Chief People Officer, Administration Governance's responsibilities include safeguarding sensitive information and managing administrative operations that support CMHA National's mission. Joanne Brown drives the development of a supportive and compliant work environment, essential for the effective delivery of mental health services and advocacy efforts nationwide. This leadership ensures strong internal foundations.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Non-Profit & Charitable Organizations

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding CMHA National Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads CMHA National?
    CMHA National is led by Ellen Watkins (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Melanie Graham (Chief Executive Officer, Officerncanadian Mental Health Association Haliburton) and Joseph Kim (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of CMHA National’s executive team?
    The executive team of CMHA National includes leaders such as Ellen Watkins (Chief Executive Officer), Melanie Graham (Chief Executive Officer, Officerncanadian Mental Health Association Haliburton), Joseph Kim (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does CMHA National have?
    CMHA National has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in CMHA National’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of CMHA National includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Officerncanadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Chief Operating Officer, Board President, President.