The Board of Health is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Greg Holzman as the incoming Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer for the Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU). Dr. Holzman will officially assume the role on Monday, June 8th. His appointment is subject to the Minister of Health's approval, as required under the Health Protection and Promotion Act.
Dr. Holzman holds a Doctor of Medicine degree and is board-certified in Preventive Medicine/General Public Health by the American Board of Preventive Medicine. He is also board-certified in Family Medicine through the American Board of Family Medicine. Dr. Holzman has practiced in the United States as a clinician and in academia and has extensively engaged in public health leadership and advocacy. Dr. Holzman held the position of Chief Medical Executive in the State of Michigan from 2006 to 2011 and served as the State Medical Officer for the State of Montana from 2015 to 2021. He has also held public health leadership roles at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the United States' Federal public health agency.
Throughout his career, Dr. Holzman has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing population health, strengthening community partnerships, supporting population-based health education from grade school through medical training, and promoting evidence-based decision-making. Dr. Holzman has worked collaboratively with Indian and Alaska Native Nations throughout his career. He currently resides in Montana, living within the Blackfeet Nation in Montana.
“Dr. Holzman’s expertise and dedication to public health make him an excellent choice to lead our organization,” said James McPherson, Chair of the Board of Health. “We are confident that his leadership will support our continued efforts to protect and promote the health and well-being of all residents in the Thunder Bay District Health Unit area.”
As Medical Officer of Health and CEO, Dr. Holzman will provide strategic direction for public health programs and services, oversee health protection and disease prevention initiatives, and work collaboratively with municipal, provincial, Indigenous, and community partners to address emerging health priorities.
“I am honoured to serve the Thunder Bay District Health Unit in this role,” said Dr. Holzman. “I look forward to joining the community and working with the Board, staff, partners, and the public to build thriving places where everyone has the opportunity for a healthier future.”
The Board of Health extends its gratitude to all those involved in the recruitment process, including Dr. Janet DeMille, current Medical Officer of Health and CEO, for her support during the leadership transition. The Board looks forward to Dr. Holzman’s leadership in advancing the mission of the Thunder Bay District Health Unit: working together to promote, protect, and achieve healthier communities.