Apr 24, 2024

Dr. Joanne Baker – Chief Executive Officer – Parkinson Society BC

By PFM Search

PFM Executive Search is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Joanne Baker (PhD) as the new Chief Executive Officer of Parkinson’s Society of BC (PSBC). Joanne was recruited to this role following the retirement of Jean Blake, who provided compassionate, forward-thinking leadership to the Society for over 10 years.

With a career in the non-profit sector that began in 1991, Joanne has contributed significantly to a variety of service areas, including disability support, child welfare, and advocacy for those impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault. Her notable work in the UK’s deinstitutionalization movement and her frontline support roles have been complemented by her academic contributions in Australian universities, where she focused on social work and community welfare education and research.

Since relocating to Vancouver in 2012, Joanne has held senior roles in provincial anti-violence and child welfare organizations, including the Strategic Initiatives Division of the Ministry of Children & Family Development and the Belonging Network Support for Families & Youth Association. Her professional portfolio is complemented by her personal interests in film, literature, walking, soccer, and podcasts. Joanne’s experience and passion for social welfare are poised to lead PSBC into a future marked by innovation, inclusivity, and expanded support for individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease in British Columbia.

On behalf of PFM Executive Search, congratulations Joanne!

PFM Executive Search is recognized as a leader in executive search and has been working with some of the most prominent Canadian private, public, and not-for-profit clients over the past 30-years. We are known for our ability to recruit senior leaders from around the world to top management positions.