Northern Health Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Northern Health has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, medical affairs, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to accessible care, Northern Health provides comprehensive healthcare services across a vast 600,000 square kilometer area, operating more than two dozen hospitals and long-term care facilities to serve over 300,000 residents.

Leadership Roles at Northern Health

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Ciro Panessa
  • Chief Operating Officer - Angela De Smit
  • Interim Chief Operating Officer - Linda Romano
  • Chief Operating Officer, Northern Interior - Penny Anguish
  • Chief Operating Officer & Deputy Director, Medical Center, VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System - Debbie Strang
  • Chief of Staff - Mark Thomson
  • Chief of Staff BVDH - Vestvik Sandra
  • Chief Medical Officer - Prahlad Ho
  • Chief People Officer - Rebecca Hodges
  • Deputy Chief Medical Officer - Susanty Tay
  • Ciro Panessa - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Ciro Panessa, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Northern Health, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the entire healthcare network. Panessa guides the organization's mission to deliver comprehensive healthcare services across northern British Columbia's expansive 600,000 square kilometer territory. This leadership role involves setting the strategic vision for over two dozen hospitals, long-term care facilities, and public health units. Ciro Panessa ensures alignment with provincial healthcare objectives and fosters innovation in patient care delivery. The President & Chief Executive Officer oversees critical initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes for the region's 300,000-plus residents, driving the organization's commitment to excellence and accessibility in healthcare provision.

    Angela De Smit - Chief Operating Officer

    Angela De Smit, the Chief Operating Officer at Northern Health, manages the day-to-day operations across the extensive healthcare system. De Smit oversees the efficient functioning of numerous hospitals, long-term care facilities, and specialized service centers. This critical role ensures the delivery of comprehensive healthcare services to over 300,000 residents throughout northern British Columbia. Angela De Smit focuses on optimizing resource allocation and operational workflows to enhance patient care and service accessibility across the vast 600,000 square kilometer service area. The Chief Operating Officer drives operational improvements and ensures compliance with healthcare standards, directly impacting the effectiveness of the organization's extensive network.

    Linda Romano - Interim Chief Operating Officer

    Linda Romano, the Interim Chief Operating Officer at Northern Health, provides critical leadership during a transitional period for operational management. Romano oversees the ongoing delivery of healthcare services across the organization's extensive network, ensuring continuity and efficiency. This role focuses on maintaining operational stability and implementing immediate improvements to service delivery. Linda Romano works closely with department heads and facility managers to address operational challenges and support staff. The Interim Chief Operating Officer ensures that Northern Health continues to meet the healthcare needs of over 300,000 residents throughout northern British Columbia.

    Penny Anguish - Chief Operating Officer, Northern Interior

    Penny Anguish, the Chief Operating Officer, Northern Interior at Northern Health, leads operational strategies and management for the northern interior region. Anguish oversees a significant portion of the organization's hospitals and healthcare facilities, ensuring high-quality service delivery to the local population. This role involves optimizing resource allocation and operational workflows to enhance patient care accessibility and efficiency within this specific geographic area. Penny Anguish drives initiatives aimed at improving healthcare outcomes and addressing the unique needs of communities in the northern interior. The Chief Operating Officer, Northern Interior ensures robust operational performance across a diverse range of healthcare settings.

    Debbie Strang - Chief Operating Officer & Deputy Director, Medical Center, VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System

    Debbie Strang, the Chief Operating Officer & Deputy Director, Medical Center, VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System at Northern Health, directs complex operational management and strategic oversight within a major healthcare system. Strang is responsible for ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of comprehensive medical services, managing critical resources and personnel. This leadership position involves driving operational excellence and patient-centered care initiatives across multiple facilities. Debbie Strang collaborates with clinical and administrative teams to uphold the highest standards of healthcare provision and operational integrity. The Chief Operating Officer & Deputy Director, Medical Center, VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System plays a vital role in the strategic direction and day-to-day functioning of the medical center.

    Mark Thomson - Chief of Staff

    Mark Thomson, the Chief of Staff at Northern Health, provides strategic support and operational coordination for executive leadership. Thomson facilitates communication and collaboration among senior management, ensuring seamless execution of organizational priorities. This role involves managing key projects and initiatives that advance Northern Health's mission across its vast service area. Mark Thomson supports the President & Chief Executive Officer in strategic planning and decision-making processes. The Chief of Staff plays a pivotal part in enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring the effective delivery of healthcare services to the population of northern British Columbia.

    Vestvik Sandra - Chief of Staff BVDH

    Vestvik Sandra, the Chief of Staff BVDH at Northern Health, directs operational leadership and strategic initiatives within the Bulkley Valley District Hospital context. Sandra ensures the effective management of hospital services and patient care delivery, contributing to the broader healthcare network's objectives. This position focuses on optimizing the performance and resource utilization specific to the BVDH facility. Vestvik Sandra collaborates with clinical teams and administrative staff to uphold high standards of healthcare provision. The Chief of Staff BVDH plays a key role in implementing organizational policies and driving service improvements within the hospital's operational framework.

    Prahlad Ho - Chief Medical Officer

    Prahlad Ho, the Chief Medical Officer at Northern Health, provides critical medical leadership and strategic direction for clinical services across the region. Ho oversees the quality of patient care, medical staff performance, and the implementation of evidence-based medical practices throughout the extensive network of hospitals and clinics. This role is essential in ensuring that healthcare services meet the highest clinical standards and address the health needs of over 300,000 residents. Prahlad Ho champions initiatives focused on clinical innovation, patient safety, and the integration of medical services. The Chief Medical Officer guides the medical community in delivering exceptional care across northern British Columbia's vast geographical area.
    Prahlad Ho

    Rebecca Hodges - Chief People Officer

    Rebecca Hodges, the Chief People Officer at Northern Health, leads human resources strategy and talent management for the entire organization. Hodges oversees all aspects of employee relations, recruitment, retention, and professional development to support the delivery of comprehensive healthcare services. This role is crucial in fostering a positive and productive work environment for the thousands of staff members across Northern Health's vast operational area. Rebecca Hodges ensures that the organization attracts and retains skilled healthcare professionals, vital for serving over 300,000 residents. The Chief People Officer drives initiatives that support employee well-being and organizational culture, directly impacting service quality.

    Susanty Tay - Deputy Chief Medical Officer

    Susanty Tay, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer at Northern Health, supports the Chief Medical Officer in overseeing clinical operations and medical quality across the region. Tay assists in the development and implementation of medical policies and procedures, ensuring high standards of patient care and safety. This role involves close collaboration with medical staff and hospital administrators to address clinical challenges and enhance service delivery. Susanty Tay contributes to strategic planning for medical services, focusing on innovation and efficiency within the healthcare network. The Deputy Chief Medical Officer plays a key part in maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of healthcare provision for northern British Columbia's population.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Hospitals & Physicians Clinics

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Northern Health Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Northern Health?
    Northern Health is led by Ciro Panessa (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Angela De Smit (Chief Operating Officer) and Linda Romano (Interim Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Northern Health’s executive team?
    The executive team of Northern Health includes leaders such as Ciro Panessa (President & Chief Executive Officer), Angela De Smit (Chief Operating Officer), Linda Romano (Interim Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Northern Health have?
    Northern Health has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Northern Health’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Northern Health includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Interim Chief Operating Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Northern Interior, Chief Operating Officer & Deputy Director, Medical Center, VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System.