Dennis Stavrou
Canada
Summary
With over a decade of leadership experience in health and social services, education, and justice, I have developed a strong focus on organizational development, mental health and addictions, and quality improvement. As a seasoned senior government executive, my unique perspective is shaped by being a self-declared northerner and a two-time immigrant. Originally from Greece, I moved to the USA in 1994 to support my parents' pursuit of medical education. In 2003, I immigrated to Canada to pursue my own educational, professional, and personal dreams. Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to working with people in rural and remote communities across Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Ontario, Alberta, the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and British Columbia. Along the way, I have earned graduate degrees, a graduate certificate, and three professional designations. Living in parts of the country that many people only dream of visiting has allowed me to connect with diverse communities and cultures that have enriched my life both personally and professionally. Engaging in outdoor activities such as mountain biking, running, hiking, and cross-country skiing is how I enjoy my free time.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certificate
11
11
years of post-secondary education
Work History
College Instructor & Chair
Northern Lights College
08.2022 - Current
- Designed course materials that aligned with learning objectives while also meeting diverse learning needs of the student population.
- Created syllabus and instructional plans for each class session in accord with stated course objectives.
- Created positive and safe learning environment for students by setting and enforcing classroom code of conduct.
- Mentored new faculty members to promote professional growth and enhance the overall teaching community.
- Served on college committees focused on improving academic programs, policies, or procedures for greater institutional effectiveness.
- Worked with dean to assess and evaluate courses and programs in appropriate discipline.
- Developed semester outlines and instructional plans for each class session to comply with stated course objectives.
- Used different learning modes and types of technology to engage students in achieving learning outcomes. Examples include using learning management systems (LMS), such as desire 2 learn (d2l) brightspace.
Leadership and Executive Coach
Aurora Innovators
04.2022 - Current
- Increased client confidence in decision-making through targeted coaching sessions and role-playing exercises.
- Cultivated a high-performance mindset among clients by sharing best practices in time management, prioritization, and delegation techniques.
- Monitored and analyzed clients' progress, results and overall satisfaction to implement process improvement initiatives.
- Analyzed needs, established learning objectives and delivered training programs and other education and development services.
- Empowered clients to make informed career decisions by providing expert advice on job transitions, promotions, or new opportunities.
- Identified areas of improvement within client organizations, providing actionable recommendations and guidance on implementation.
- Promoted a culture of continuous learning among clients by recommending relevant books, courses, and other resources for professional development.
Senior Healthcare Leader
Northern Health - BC
05.2022 - 07.2023
- Evaluated employee skills and knowledge regularly, training, and mentoring individuals with lagging skills.
- Maintained team flexibility and embraced change to adapt within dynamic markets.
- Built high-performing teams by recruiting top talent and providing ongoing support through professional development programs.
- Overcame challenging deadlines and resource limitations by reallocating personnel and focusing on priority tasks.
- Increased team productivity by streamlining communication and implementing effective project management strategies.
- Applied strong leadership talents and problem-solving skills to maintain team efficiency and organize workflows.
- Cultivated positive relationships with vendors to deliver timely and cost-effective supply of services and materials.
- Evaluated staff performance and provided coaching to address inefficiencies.
- Championed change initiatives, successfully navigating teams through periods of transition while maintaining morale and engagement levels.
- Mentored junior staff members, helping them develop leadership skills and advance their careers within the organization.
- Managed budgets and resources, ensuring optimal allocation towards achieving organizational objectives.
Warden, Prince George Regional Correctional Centre (Senior Leadership Role as Executive Director)
Government of British Columbia
05.2020 - 05.2022
- Aligned department vision, goals, and objectives with company strategy to achieve consistently high results.
- Fostered work culture of collaboration and inclusion to increase morale and reduce turnover.
- Drove strategic improvements to enhance operational and organizational efficiencies.
- Strengthened internal communication channels to facilitate cross-functional collaboration and decisionmaking.
- Evaluated program outcomes using data-driven metrics, identifying areas for improvement and implementing targeted interventions.
- Advocated for policy changes at both local and national levels to further support the organization''s goals and objectives.
- Oversaw financial management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability for the organization.
- Promoted a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging professional development opportunities for staff members.
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a collaborative work environment for increased productivity.
- Represented organization to local public by giving presentations and speeches and participating in community events.
- Championed diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within the organization to create a more inclusive work environment.
- Guided staff through periods of organizational change, maintaining morale and engagement during transitions.
- Collaborated with external organizations including non-profits, businesses and government agencies to create mutually beneficial partnerships.
- Spearheaded new program initiatives to address unmet community needs and advance the organization''s mission.
Executive Director, Iqaluit Health Services (Senior Leadership Role at an Accredited Facility)
Government of Nunavut
07.2016 - 05.2020
- Worked closely with organizational leadership and board of directors to guide operational strategy.
- Fostered work culture of collaboration and inclusion to increase morale and reduce turnover.
- Aligned department vision, goals, and objectives with company strategy to achieve consistently high results.
- Strengthened internal communication channels to facilitate cross-functional collaboration and decisionmaking.
- Oversaw financial management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability for the organization.
- Spearheaded new program initiatives to address unmet community needs and advance the organization''s mission.
- Collaborated with external organizations including non-profits, businesses and government agencies to create mutually beneficial partnerships.
- Promoted a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging professional development opportunities for staff members.
- Monitored compliance with laws and regulations to protect organization from legal liabilities and penalties.
- Evaluated program outcomes using data-driven metrics, identifying areas for improvement and implementing targeted interventions.
- Championed diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within the organization to create a more inclusive work environment.
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a collaborative work environment for increased productivity.
- Led recruitment and development of strategic alliances to maximize utilization of existing talent and capabilities.
- Represented organization at industry conferences and events.
Associated Faculty Member / Course Developer / Course Equivalency Assessor
Yorkville University
10.2013 - 11.2017
- Selected and developed instructional material and planned instruction to enhance student learning.
- Incorporated proven methods of engagement and assessment that facilitated student mastery of content.
- Developed innovative curriculum materials, resulting in increased student engagement and understanding of complex topics.
- Created assignments to encourage student learning and develop communication skills and higher-order thinking.
- Collaborated with colleagues to create interdisciplinary lessons, enriching students'' educational experiences.
- Demonstrated interpersonal and communication skills resulting in clear communication of subject matter to students.
- Provided students with constructive, encouraging and corrective feedback.
Director, Community Programs and Services (Senior Leadership Position)
Government of Northwest Territories
10.2012 - 07.2016
- Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
- Optimized staff performance by designing comprehensive training programs tailored to individual needs.
- Facilitated cross-functional collaboration for improved decision-making processes within the organization.
- Leveraged professional networks and industry knowledge to strengthen client relationships.
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosted overall team morale.
- Implemented innovative solutions to solve complex problems, resulting in increased productivity and streamlined operations.
- Proactively identified potential risks and implemented mitigation strategies to minimize negative impacts on projects or operations.
- Evaluated employee performance objectively using established metrics, leading to fair compensation adjustments based on meritocracy principles.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
- Implemented innovative programs to increase employee loyalty and reduce turnover.
- Recruited, hired, and trained initial personnel, working to establish key internal functions and outline scope of positions for new organization.
Operations Lead, Health and Social Services Systems Transformation (Senior Leadership Role)
Government of Northwest Territories
11.2015 - 07.2016
- Enhanced team productivity by providing ongoing training and development opportunities.
- Contributed to the creation of a safety-first culture by implementing and enforcing strict workplace safety protocols.
- Championed change management efforts across organizational departments, assisting employees in adapting to new policies or procedures effectively.
- Planned operations and activities, and led projects.
- Conducted regular reviews of operations and identified areas for improvement.
- Developed effective improvement plans in alignment with goals and specifications.
- Devised and implemented processes and procedures to streamline operations.
- Generated reports detailing findings and recommendations.
- Streamlined operations by implementing efficient processes and optimizing workflows.
Director, Quality and Patient Safety Services (Senior Leadership Position)
Government of Nova Scotia
12.2008 - 10.2012
- Secured key partnerships that contributed to the company''s overall growth strategy and market reach.
- Spearheaded innovative approaches to resource allocation and strategic planning.
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Facilitated cross-functional collaboration for improved decision-making processes within the organization.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
- Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
- Strengthened internal controls by reviewing existing policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Leveraged professional networks and industry knowledge to strengthen client relationships.
- Proactively identified potential risks and implemented mitigation strategies to minimize negative impacts on projects or operations.
- Recruited, hired, and trained initial personnel, working to establish key internal functions and outline scope of positions.
Subject Matter Expert
Meritus University
09.2010 - 02.2011
- Responsible for the development of course material, including curriculum, learning exercises, and assessment tools for two graduate courses which are part of the MBA program specialization in Healthcare Management
Instructor, Arts & Education
Northwestern Polytechnic
09.2008 - 12.2008
- Responsible for mentoring, teaching, and evaluating students registered in Political Science 1030: Modern Political Issues
Clinical Health Policy Advisor - Mental Health Services (Senior Leadership Position)
Alberta Health Services
11.2007 - 11.2008
- Proposed policies, developed roadmaps, and reported on costs and benefits.
- Prepared clear, concise presentations to communicate policy recommendations to diverse audiences.
- Spearheaded the development of new policies by identifying gaps in existing frameworks or emerging needs within the community served by the organization.
- Managed projects effectively by setting milestones, tracking progress, and adjusting plans as required.
- Managed implementation of policy and program initiatives.
- Facilitated constructive dialogue among stakeholders through roundtable discussions, workshops, and focus groups.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to address complex policy challenges, ensuring comprehensive solutions.
- Researched existing policies and procedures to gain firm understanding of current conditions.
- Drafted high-quality policy documents, resulting in increased clarity and understanding for decisionmakers.
- Advised senior leadership on potential implications of proposed policies or regulations for the organization''s mission or operations.
- Monitored policy implementation, identifying areas for improvement and recommending adjustments as needed.
- Conducted risk assessments related to specific policies or regulatory changes; developed mitigation strategies accordingly.
- Mentored junior staff in the development of their policy analysis skills, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth within the organization.
Regional Manager, Health Information Management
Alberta Health Services
01.2007 - 11.2007
- Promoted a culture of continuous improvement through ongoing process reviews, employee engagement initiatives, and open channels of communication.
- Streamlined operational processes for increased efficiency by identifying areas of improvement and implementing necessary changes.
- Enhanced team performance by providing regular coaching, training, and performance feedback to staff members.
- Collaborated with executive leadership to establish long-term objectives, drive growth initiatives, and align regional efforts with corporate goals.
- Supervised various locations, enforcing high-quality standards of operation.
- Cultivated positive rapport with fellow employees to boost company morale and promote employee retention.
- Evaluated employee performance and conveyed constructive feedback to improve skills.
- Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
- Established team priorities, maintained schedules and monitored performance.
Education
Master of Education (M.Ed.) - Advanced Teaching
University of The People
Online 06.2024 - Current
Provincial Instructor Diploma Program (PIDP) - College Teaching
Vancouver Community College (VCC)
Online 09.2023 - Current
Graduate Certificate - Executive Coaching
Royal Roads University
Online 08.2021 - 07.2022
Master of Arts - Political Science
Memorial University of Newfoundland
St. John's, NL 01.2006 - 05.2007
Master of Health Informatics (MHI) - Health Informatics
Dalhousie University
Halifax, NS 09.2003 - 05.2006
Bachelor of Arts (BA) - Major: Political Science | Minor: Womens' Studies
University of Houston
Houston, TX 08.1999 - 05.2003
Doctor of Health Administration (DHA) (ABD) - Health/Health Care Administration/Management
University of Phoenix
Online01-2026
Certification
- Certified Health Executive (CHE) - Canadian College of Health Leaders (CCHL)
- Lumina Spark & Leaders Practitioner - Lumina Learning
- Certified Executive Coach (CEC) - Royal Roads University
- Professional Certified Coach (PCC) - International Coaching Federation (ICF)
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Greek
Native or Bilingual
French
Elementary
Affiliations
- Canadian College of Health Leaders
- International Coaching Federation
- Lumina Learning
- DISC
Timeline
Master of Education (M.Ed.) - Advanced Teaching
University of The People
06.2024 - Current
Provincial Instructor Diploma Program (PIDP) - College Teaching
Vancouver Community College (VCC)
09.2023 - Current
College Instructor & Chair
Northern Lights College
08.2022 - Current
Senior Healthcare Leader
Northern Health - BC
05.2022 - 07.2023
Leadership and Executive Coach
Aurora Innovators
04.2022 - Current
Graduate Certificate - Executive Coaching
Royal Roads University
08.2021 - 07.2022
Warden, Prince George Regional Correctional Centre (Senior Leadership Role as Executive Director)
Government of British Columbia
05.2020 - 05.2022
Executive Director, Iqaluit Health Services (Senior Leadership Role at an Accredited Facility)
Government of Nunavut
07.2016 - 05.2020
Operations Lead, Health and Social Services Systems Transformation (Senior Leadership Role)
Government of Northwest Territories
11.2015 - 07.2016
Associated Faculty Member / Course Developer / Course Equivalency Assessor
Yorkville University
10.2013 - 11.2017
Director, Community Programs and Services (Senior Leadership Position)
Government of Northwest Territories
10.2012 - 07.2016
Subject Matter Expert
Meritus University
09.2010 - 02.2011
Director, Quality and Patient Safety Services (Senior Leadership Position)
Government of Nova Scotia
12.2008 - 10.2012
Instructor, Arts & Education
Northwestern Polytechnic
09.2008 - 12.2008
Clinical Health Policy Advisor - Mental Health Services (Senior Leadership Position)
Alberta Health Services
11.2007 - 11.2008
Regional Manager, Health Information Management
Alberta Health Services
01.2007 - 11.2007
Master of Arts - Political Science
Memorial University of Newfoundland
01.2006 - 05.2007
Master of Health Informatics (MHI) - Health Informatics
Dalhousie University
09.2003 - 05.2006
Bachelor of Arts (BA) - Major: Political Science | Minor: Womens' Studies
University of Houston
08.1999 - 05.2003
Doctor of Health Administration (DHA) (ABD) - Health/Health Care Administration/Management
University of Phoenix
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