Reflections on Retirement
I write this note on my final day in the office at Revera Inc where I have had the pleasure of leading an amazing team for the past almost 10 years. It is a surreal experience as I step back into an active retirement. As a serial CEO it is most unusual to contemplate an existence without the business structure or support but alas the fear of the unknown is usually worse than confronting the known.
People have asked me what I am most proud of about my time at Revera. That’s easy - I am most proud of the culture we created together. A culture relentlessly focused on quality of life and respect for residents and team members. A culture in which people are safe to challenge norms, to consciously make and take accountability of decisions. When Revera was recognized as one of Canada’s Most Admired Cultures, in early 2020 right before the pandemic, it was a great moment that celebrated a years-long journey for everyone at Revera.
Through sometimes difficult decisions, our leadership team has consistently lived our values, always focused on respecting people. We did not always get everything right, but we were able to move forward and learn, which is what the journey is all about.
Over my career I have been fortunate to work with some amazing leaders whether at Revera; LifeLabs/CML Healthcare; Therapure or over my 20 years at Eli Lilly here in Canada, the US, the UK, in Germany or abroad. I am grateful.
What’s next for me? My immediate plans are to take a breath and to spend some quality time with my wife Mary as we think about and map out the next chapter together both personally and professionally. There are several areas of interest for learning and exploration. Although, I enjoy business, so I plan to engage in more advisory work; take on a few more Boards – most recently I was nominated by the province to serve on the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan Board and I have been on the Andlauer Health Group Board for the past four years. Mary and I also plan to travel to visit our daughter in the UK, who is starting her first veterinary practice, and to spend more time with our son, who we love seeing at home in Toronto and up at the lake.
I look forward to staying in touch, my contact details are:
thomas@wellcap.ca
+1416-906-7719
https://lnkd.in/gw8uw7vZ
It will be a big change, but a wise man once told me you’re never too old to learn. So, I’ll keep learning and growing, as I know you will too.
As Dr. Suess said, “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” We have every reason to smile, to be proud, and to look forward to what comes next.
Thank you. It has been a privilege. Onwards.
Cheers, Tom
Congratulations for your retirement