With over two decades of progressive leadership in complex clinical, operational, and strategic healthcare settings, Desa brings deep experience and insight to Waterloo Regional Health Network (WRHN). She is a strategic, analytical, and consultative leader who excels in high-pressure environments, blending data-driven decision-making with inclusive accountability to foster strong engagement and consistent results.
As Vice President, Patient Care, and Regional Vice President, Cancer Programs, Desa is accountable for Cancer, Renal, Cardiac, and Critical Care services. Through her leadership within Ontario Health (Cancer Care Ontario) and the Regional Cancer Programs, she also plays a key role in executing the provincial vision and driving system-level performance and transformation across the cancer care continuum.
Throughout her career, Desa has championed initiatives that bridge executive strategy with frontline impact. Her career spans leadership roles at some of Ontario's most respected healthcare organizations including Unity Health Toronto, Mackenzie Health, and Halton Healthcare where she has consistently delivered transformative results in patient care, operational performance, and innovation.
