Karen Oldfield

After serving for more than 18 years as President and CEO of the Halifax Port Authority, Karen was recently named the Interim President and CEO of Nova Scotia Health (NSH). This appointment was made by Premier Tim Houston in an effort to take immediate action to improve health care in Nova Scotia. While seconded to Nova Scotia Health, Karen has also been appointed Deputy Minister of Priorities and Planning for the Government of Nova Scotia, a role fundamental to the strategic priorities of the Province.

During her tenure at the Port Authority, revenues more than tripled, enabling the organization to make significant financial investments in strategic port and transportation infrastructure to improve port competitiveness and the livability of the City of Halifax. Oldfield has global experience, particularly in trade development and the establishment of new markets together with deep expertise in supply chain management and logistics. Karen operates and achieves results in complex, multiparty/stakeholder environments, particularly at the nexus of levels of government interacting with the private sector.

Organizational future-proofing and recruiting and developing talent are Karen’s passions. Her inquisitive nature and ability to “see around corners” has enabled Karen to spot themes and trends by which she is able to keep organizations at the forefront of change.

Ms. Oldfield is Past Chair of the Board of Governors of Saint Mary’s University. She has served as President of the Canadian Chapter of the International Women’s Forum, a global organization comprised of female leaders with a stated mission to further develop female executive and board talent. Ms. Oldfield serves as Lead Director of Acadian Timber (ADN.TO), serving as Chair of Nomination and Governance and Executive Compensation as well as member of the Audit Committee.