Press Release
CMA Board of Directors Appoints New Chair
Boyden is pleased to share the appointment news of Dr. André Bernard, a recruitment led by Nick Chambers and Michael Naufal
Kate Ralston
Senior Associate, Canada
Kate Ralston contributes specialized expertise in a range of industries with a focus on not-for-profit and social impact, playing an active role in all aspects of search mandates. She is a strong relationship builder and communicator, dedicated to connecting people and organizations and delivering positive experiences. She is also committed to promoting inclusive search strategies and processes.
Professional Focus
- More than seven years’ experience in executive search and recruitment
- Involved in searches for senior executives and other leadership roles in the public and private sectors
- Successful track record in a range of industries with specialization in not-for-profit, social impact, and higher education
- Proficient in all aspects of the search process: strategy development, research, candidate sourcing and assessment, project management, referencing, and reporting
- Member of Boyden Canada’s National DEI Leadership Committee
Business Expertise
- Promoted from Associate at Boyden, and previously from Project Coordinator
- Project Manager at a prominent international executive search firm based in Canada
- Special Projects Manager for a Canadian PPE manufacturer; managed website redesign, creation of e-commerce platform, market research and other projects
- Senior Administrative Assistant at the Health Services Executive (HSE), administrative arm of Ireland’s public health services, based in Dublin
- Earlier roles in sales and administration
Additional Expertise
- Not-for-Profit
- Social Impact
- Higher Education
- Arts & Culture
- Public Sector
- Communications
- Human Resources
- Board Services
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor’s degree from University of Ottawa
Case Studies
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Building a High-Performance HR Function for a Multi-Site Laboratory Organization
Through collaboration with Boyden, the Chief People Officer of a PE-backed company secured two pivotal leaders, a Vice President of Human Resources and a Head of Talent Acquisition, to elevate human capital strategy, drive transformation, streamline recruitment, and strengthen enterprise alignment.
Strengthening Advancement Capacity and Culture Through a Long-Term Search Partnership
With Boyden’s support, Loyola Marymount University built a high-performing advancement team by filling 15 key fundraising roles over five years, strengthening collaboration, continuity, and campaign readiness.
Strategic Board Renewal for a High-Growth Cybersecurity Leader
Boyden partnered with a publicly traded cybersecurity firm to appoint a transformative director whose reputation and leadership experience amplify the company’s strategic ambitions and market position.
Thought Leadership
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Articles & Papers
In Search of the Elusive Bilingual Executives: Beyond a hope, a prayer, and a dream
Featuring Marie-Hélène Gaudreault, Leader in Boyden’s Social Impact Practice
Articles & Papers
A First External CEO Leads a First Generational Succession
A family enterprise approaching its first generational transition found leadership fragmented across sibling-led divisions. Growth was possible, but cohesion was not guaranteed. By introducing independent executive leadership, the family gained clarity, strengthened governance, and set a foundation for long-term continuity. Here’s how unified leadership replaced complexity.
Articles & Papers
Part 3: In Search of the Elusive Bilingual Executives: Beyond a hope, a prayer, and a dream
Featuring Marie-Hélène Gaudreault, Leader in Boyden’s Social Impact Practice
Blog
No Passengers: How Shared Accountability Drives Organizational Momentum
Discover how shared accountability fuels high-performing cultures, with insights from Netflix and strategies to overcome common barriers like blame culture and misaligned incentives.
Media
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Board Journey 360 Fireside Series featuring President & CEO of IRICoR, Nadine Beauger
Video
Board Journey 360 Fireside Series featuring energy executive and corporate director, Judith Athaide
Video
Board Journey 360 Fireside Series featuring CEO & Board Director Kendra MacDonald
Video
Board Journey 360 Fireside Series featuring Board Director Barbara Bellissimo
Video
News & Events
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Contact Kate Ralston today and let's get started