Leading with purpose and passion

He describes his role as one that combines creative thinking with strategic leadership in a complex environment. “The work is purposeful with demonstrable, daily, real-life impacts,” he says.

In his role, Andy provides strategic leadership and operational oversight across the VCH region, supporting initiatives related to Urgent and Primary Care Centres (UPCCs), Primary Care Networks and broader primary care services. “Opening new UPCCs that give patients different access to care outside of emergency departments is a proud achievement,” he shares.

Andy fosters a collaborative and inclusive team culture by empowering team members, nurturing their growth and creating an environment where everyone feels valued and supported. “Mentoring is a critical part of any leader’s role,” he emphasizes. “We have to create and support the conditions for all individuals to work to the scope of their skills and abilities, feel supported and well set up to provide their best each day.” 

Building on this inclusive culture, Andy fosters a dynamic team environment where diverse perspectives drive innovation. He encourages his regional team to embrace creative problem-solving, often using whiteboard sessions that welcome input, regardless of subject expertise. “Several different brains and perspectives can help with creative dialogue and solving knotty issues,” he says.

At the heart of his leadership is a deep respect for both patients and team members, whom he considers “cherished members of the family.” This mindset reinforces a culture rooted in empathy, inclusion and accountability.  

Andy’s approach to leadership is deeply influenced by his diverse clinical background. He started his career with VCH in May 2012 as a Social Worker at Willow Pavilion, Vancouver General Hospital. “The experience of working as a clinician has a strong bearing on how I strive to lead each day,” he says. “The lives of individuals are a complex interwoven web that binds us together collectively.”

Over the years, Andy advanced his career by working across a broad range of environments—from Mental Health and Substance Use teams and Assertive Community Treatment teams to Primary Care, Child Protection, Elder Abuse, Forensic Mental Health, Emergency Duty and hospital-based social work. 

"My experience provides a solid ground for leading change within complex health systems," he adds. "Empathy, ethics, patience and consistency are key strengths that translate well to the leadership-sphere."

Andy offers valuable guidance: “Think about how you can bring your true self and personality to the role. Be clear on why you want to lead and what type of leader you strive to be. Are you ready for the privilege and infinite challenges that come with the responsibility?”

At VCH, leadership takes many forms across diverse portfolios that drive innovation with a focus on delivering exceptional patient care. Explore how you can advance your career to lead transformative change and make a meaningful impact in collaborative roles such as Regional Directors, Executive Directors, Vice Presidents, Quality Improvement Leaders, Senior Project Managers and more.

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