Candy is a distinguished healthcare executive with an unparalleled 40-year operational tenure spanning the entire spectrum of the healthcare landscape. Her experience encompasses pivotal roles in diverse sectors, including the public sector (Toronto Public Health), the private and for-profit sector (Long Term Care), national not-for-profit organizations (Canadian Blood Services and Diabetes Canada), and hospitals.
Candy’s journey through the healthcare realm has provided her with invaluable real-life insights into emergency management. She navigated through organizations that were ill-prepared for incidents, turning these experiences into catalysts for change. She championed the adoption of the Incident Management System (IMS)/Incident Command System (ICS) and the development of effective and efficient emergency management plans. Her adeptness at demonstrating the return on investment (ROI) for implementing comprehensive emergency management plans has positively impacted numerous organizations.
Her skill set is a rich tapestry that includes a strong foundation in business acumen, robust financial management capabilities, the application of operational emergency management principles, and a track record of successfully restructuring and evaluating programs, policies, and procedures. Candy is not only highly proficient in managing change but also excels in navigating group dynamics, fostering team cohesion, and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams. Her unwavering commitment to strategic transformation, collaborative endeavors, and driving change for the betterment of her clients distinguishes her leadership.
Candy’s dedication extends beyond her professional pursuits as she has contributed her expertise to various boards, including a condominium board, North York Probus Governance Committee, Federated Health, St. John Ambulance Board, St. John Ambulance Marketing Committee, and Centennial College Cabinet.
A passionate and visionary leader, Candy holds a Master’s in Leadership (MA) from Royal Roads University and is a Registered Nurse (BScN, RN) educated at the University of Toronto. Her commitment to excellence is further underscored by her certifications in Incident Management System (IMS) Levels 100, 200, and 300, as well as her Canadian Health Executive (CHE) certificate from the Canadian College of Health Leaders.
Peter Rotolo has recently concluded an illustrious 47-year career as a Commander with Toronto Paramedic Services Since 1985, Peter has been a staunch advocate for the Incident Management System (IMS) and played a pivotal role as a member of the original provincial committee in developing the Incident Management System in Ontario. Peter’s legacy is marked by his role as the Incident Commander for a series of major events, including the Air France crash, Sunrise Propane Explosion, Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) subway crash, Danzig St. mass shooting, Yonge St. Van Attack, and Danforth Mass shooting, among others.
Throughout his distinguished journey, he undertook a multitude of responsibilities, showcasing his exceptional leadership and expertise in overseeing emergency medical response operations, training, and emergency management. On numerous occasions, he stepped into the role of Acting Deputy Chief of Operations for Toronto Paramedic Services, demonstrating his adaptability and commitment to the organization.
His leadership extended beyond the local scale, as he served as the lead for the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care in planning and developing emergency medical responses for high-profile gatherings such as the G8/20 Summit, Papal visit, Santa Claus Parade, and Molson Indy.
Peter’s impact on pre-hospital care has been transformative, characterized by the introduction of innovative programs like Special Operations Teams and collaboration with allied service partners in the Public Safety Unit (PSU), the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) Team, Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (HUSAR) team, Paramedic Bicycle and Marine Unit, and Paramedic Tactical Unit.
His wealth of knowledge and experience has made him a sought-after conference speaker, providing expert insights into response and mitigation strategies for major events, including the London, England Subway bombing, Yonge Street Van Attack, and Danforth Shooting.
Throughout his remarkable career, Peter has garnered numerous awards and commendations from various Federal, Provincial, and Municipal Leaders and organizations. His dedication to service has earned him accolades such as the Governor General’s Exemplary Service Medal.
Furthermore, Peter is a published contributing author in the 2nd and 3rd editions of the Canadian edition of “Emergency Care in Streets,” a paramedic textbook. He actively contributes to the St. John Ambulance Community Service Committee and serves as an advisor to the Centennial College Paramedic Program, continuing to share his expertise and shape the future of emergency care and management.