A long-time professional in the health and human services sector has been named the new chief executive officer of Addictions and Mental Health Services – Hastings Prince Edward.

Jennifer Keilty-Friesen has held the role of Director of Addictions Services at AMHS-HPE for the past 13 months and was previously on the Board of Directors for a period of three and a half years. 

“Her understanding and commitment to the work of Addictions and Mental Health Services – Hastings Prince Edward (AMHS-HPE) is evident, and we are confident that these qualities will continue into her new role as our Chief Executive Officer,” board chair Joan Greenwood stated in a release.

Keilty-Friesen holds a Master’s Degree in Public Health, is a Certified Manager of Quality and Organizational Excellence and is an active member of the Canadian College of Health Leaders.

She has a diverse background and a depth of professional experience within the health and human services sectors, and has worked in Ontario, across Canada and internationally.

Prior to co-founding a health and human service consultancy, Keilty-Friesen previously held leadership positions in several community service organizations, including Executive Director of a Canadian accreditation body, Director of Quality for Canadian Hearing Society, and Project Manager within the Deputy Minister’s office at the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services.

 As a consultant, Keilty-Friesen worked with dozens of community health and human service organizations and government ministries, leading projects focused on complex systems design, clinical service renewal, strategic planning, daily operations, and process improvement. 

The release notes that James Duncan will continue in the role of Interim Chief Executive Officer until March 31, with a particular focus on transitional work with Keilty-Friesen.