After an extensive search and hiring process, the Middlesex-London Health Unit introduced Stephen Turner to staff this morning as the agency’s new Director of Environmental Health and Infectious Diseases. The Ward 11 London City Councillor and former Emergency Services professional had also been a member of the Middlesex-London Board of Health since being appointed by City Council shortly after his election win in October 2014. Turner has been on leave from the Board of Health since April.
“With any hiring, and particularly for a senior role, the needs of the community are of utmost consideration. While there was a lot of interest in the position and a number of great candidates, ultimately Stephen Turner is the right choice,” says Dr. Christopher Mackie, Medical Officer of Health with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “Mr. Turner has a deep understanding of the upstream, preventive approach that is core to public health. His unique background in public administration and extensive experience in emergency services is an ideal fit for this challenging role.”
As Director of Environmental Health and Infectious Diseases, Turner will oversee a wide variety of public health programs including: food premises, pool and spa, personal service setting, long-term care home and child care centre inspections; immunization programs; vector-borne diseases, emergency management; infectious disease control and sexual health services.
Turner holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, and two diplomas in Paramedicine. For the last two decades he has worked in Emergency Services, most recently with Oxford County Public Health and Emergency Services as Deputy Chief and Acting Chief of Paramedics.
Turner has resigned from the Board of Health prior to acceptance of his offer of employment.
The position was advertised through the MLHU’s website and social media channels, as well as nationally through various public health distribution channels and recruitment websites.
Turner will continue in his City Council role and will assume his new duties at the Health Unit on June 20th, 2016.
Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit,
519-663-5317 ext.2469 or 519-617-0570 (cell.)
Spokesperson:
Dr. Christopher Mackie, Medical Officer of Health, Middlesex-London Health Unit