Ron Gagnon stepping down as CEO of Waterloo Regional Health Network

CEO Ron Gagnon (left) and WRHN @ Midtown (right) in Kitchener, Ont. (Source: Waterloo Regional Health Network/Dan Lauckner)

Ron Gagnon is retiring from his role as president and CEO of the Waterloo Regional Health Network (WRHN).

The announcement, shared on Tuesday, said his last day on the job would be March 31, 2027.

Gagnon was hired by Grand River Hospital, now known as WRHN @ Midtown, in 2018. He served as its president and CEO until the formation of the Waterloo Regional Health Network in 2025, merging Grand River Hospital and St. Mary’s General Hospital.

Plans are also underway to build a new hospital along Bearinger Road in Waterloo.

“Gagnon led during a period of historical and significant transformation for healthcare in Waterloo Region,” WRHN’s press release said. “His leadership helped advance innovation, quality and service delivery improvements, supported a regional COVID-19 response, while preparing for the future of healthcare in a fast-growing region. Most notably, the planning for a new hospital and the creation of WRHN marked historical transformation.”

Gagnon also reflected on his own career.

“It has been a privilege to serve alongside the people of WRHN and our many partners across Waterloo Region,” he shared. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together and confident in the path ahead. The work underway today is creating a stronger future for healthcare in this community, and I know WRHN will continue to move forward with purpose and compassion.”

The Waterloo Region Health Network said it will be working with Promeus, an executive search firm, to identify potential candidates for the job.

“The goal is to confirm the new individual late 2026, and in place by March 2027, to provide crossover and ensure a smooth transition in advance of Gagnon’s retirement,” they wrote.