Katherine Henderson, the former chief executive officer (CEO) of Curling Canada, is set to transition from one winter sport to another as she takes on the role of president and CEO of Hockey Canada. The announcement was made through a news release on Tuesday, marking a significant development for Hockey Canada as it seeks to rebuild its reputation following a series of scandals that rocked the organization last year.
In the news release, Hugh L. Fraser, the federation board chair, expressed confidence in Henderson’s ability to lead the ongoing transformation of Hockey Canada. He cited her track record and experience as key qualifications that will contribute to ensuring the safety and inclusivity of the sport, as well as implementing best-in-class governance practices.
Hockey Canada faced severe criticism in the past year due to its mishandling of sexual assault allegations and settlement payouts. Revelations about the organization’s conduct sparked outrage across the country and drew attention to the toxic culture within the sport. As a result, the board of directors resigned in October, along with interim chair Andrea Skinner, and former president and CEO Scott Smith left the organization.
Following the resignation of the previous board, a new board of directors was appointed, with Hugh L. Fraser assuming the position of chair. The federation has been working to implement governance changes outlined in an independent report that shed light on the organization’s shortcomings.
Henderson’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Hockey Canada, which has been under intense scrutiny since May 2022, when it was revealed that the organization quietly settled a lawsuit involving allegations of sexual assault by eight players, including members of the national junior team, following a 2018 gala in London, Ontario. The revelations led to a pause or halt in financial support from the federal government and corporate sponsors.
The hiring of Henderson has already had a positive impact on Hockey Canada’s sponsorship issues, as equipment brand Bauer reinstated its partnership with the organization. Mary-Kay Messier, Bauer’s vice-president of global marketing, who served on Hockey Canada’s CEO recruitment committee, expressed a shared vision of building a strategic plan that prioritizes inclusion, grows the game, and restores the trust of the Canadian people.
Katherine Henderson, who will be based in Toronto, will assume her new role as president and CEO of Hockey Canada on September 4. The federation plans to hold a media availability with Henderson at a later date to discuss her vision for the organization.
Experts and observers believe that Henderson’s appointment signifies a positive step forward for Hockey Canada. While acknowledging her solid leadership qualities, they also anticipate that tough decisions will need to be made to address the organization’s challenges and ensure that the sport is inclusive and transparent.
Henderson’s career achievements include receiving an International Olympic Committee diploma for her work in attaining gender equity in sports and facilitating an international symposium within the curling community to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. She has made significant contributions to curling during her tenure at Curling Canada, organizing successful championships even during the pandemic and promoting new ways to attract and welcome new curlers.
As Henderson prepares to embark on her new role with Hockey Canada, Curling Canada acknowledges the positive impact she has had on their organization. The board chair, Michael Szajewski, commends Henderson for her collaborative efforts over the past seven years and highlights successful initiatives such as the Changing the Face of Curling symposium in 2022. The transition process to determine Henderson’s replacement at Curling Canada will commence, while Henderson remains in her position for at least six more weeks to assist with the transition.
Henderson’s diverse background, leadership experience, and commitment to promoting inclusivity make her a highly regarded and respected administrator and leader within the sports community. Her appointment brings renewed hope and optimism for the future of Hockey Canada as it strives to rebuild trust, prioritize