Boyden is pleased to share the appointment news of Dr. André Bernard, a recruitment led by Nick Chambers and Michael Naufal
Ottawa, ON - July 15, 2025
Dr. André Bernard has been appointed as the new chair of the CMA Board of Directors and will be assuming the role on Aug. 21 for an initial three-year term. He takes over from previous chair Dr. Suzanne Strasberg, a Toronto-based family physician who served in the position for six years.
Dr. Bernard’s appointment reflects the CMA’s commitment to effective governance and physician-led transformation. A nationally respected health system leader, he brings a deep understanding of physician priorities, a strong track record of modernizing board practices and an unwavering focus on health system improvement — key attributes as the CMA refines its strategic plan for the coming years.
Born and raised in Cape Breton, Dr. Bernard is an anesthesiologist, associate professor and senate member at Dalhousie University. In this new role, he’ll be drawing on extensive experience as board chair of Doctors Nova Scotia (2016–2024), board chair of the Medical Society of PEI (2020–2021, and 2024 to present) and chair of the CMA Governance Committee (2023 to present), among other positions.
His connection to the CMA spans more than two decades, from his early role as a student board member to his leadership on governance reform initiatives and his involvement in the World Medical Association as the representative for Canada. He also served on international working groups and continues to advise on effective board leadership and governance.
A strong advocate for mentorship and capacity building, Dr. Bernard is committed to advancing equity, diversity and inclusion, and strengthening health systems through collaboration and shared learning. He has served as a speaker, panelist and expert advisor on matters of governance, equity and global health, drawing on formal board training through the Rotman School of Management’s Institute of Corporate Directors program (ICD.D).
He also contributes to scientific research as an author, reviewer and mentor. In addition to his medical qualifications, Dr. Bernard holds a Master of Science in Health Policy, Planning and Financing from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
As chair, Dr. Bernard will manage the governance duties of the CMA board while CMA Presidents Dr. Margot Burnell, Dr. Joss Reimer and Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi engage with government officials, physician-members, key partners and the media.
The CMA looks forward to welcoming Dr. Bernard to this role and to benefit from his leadership as we advance our work to rebuild health care and support physicians.
Original Source: CMA News
