Ken Chan

Working at the intersection of public sector leadership, governance, and organizational strategy, I help governments, boards, and organizations navigate complex challenges, strengthen governance, and develop the next generation of leaders. My passion includes championing work-life balance, mental and physical wellness, and fostering inclusion and belonging in every organization I serve.

As Partner at Optimus SBR, I lead the public sector management consulting practice, advising governments, health systems, and nonprofit organizations on strategy, governance, and operational effectiveness. My career spans the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, providing a unique perspective on leadership, policy, and organizational transformation.

My experience includes serving in, with, and for governments, including as Assistant Deputy Minister in the Ontario Government, and in leadership roles at Victoria University, Brock University, Vertex Pharmaceuticals, and Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Internationally, I have contributed to public policy and regulatory reform with the UK Government and the Mayor’s Office in London. My public service journey began as a police officer and border services officer.

Board leadership is another key focus. I serve as a corporate director on boards including the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority, Alterna Savings, Alterna Bank, Open For Business, and Pathstone Foundation. As Director-in-Residence with the Institute of Corporate Directors, I support programs for Crown Corporation boards. My contributions to leadership development include work as an adjunct faculty member, volunteer coach, mentor, and leadership coach, while also sharing insights as a writer on government, policy, and leadership topics.

I hold an Executive PhD in Management and an Executive Master in Management Research from ESCP Business School – Sorbonne Alliance, an MBA from City University of Seattle, a Master of Forensic Accounting from University of Toronto, and a BA from Simon Fraser University. I am also an ICD.D-certified director and have completed executive education at CPA Canada, Rotman, Kellogg, Oxford, and Harvard.

Opportunities to connect, collaborate, and contribute to initiatives that strengthen governance, leadership, and public institutions are always welcome, especially those promoting inclusive, healthy, and high-performing organizational cultures.