Henri Koning, who previously served as Director of Seniors Services, has officially assumed the role. Pictured: Henri Koning. Photo Credit: Niagara Region.
Niagara Regional Council has approved Henri Koning as its new permanent Commissioner of Community Services. She officially took the permanent post last week.
Koning has been with the Region since 2012 as the Director of Seniors Services. During her tenure, she oversaw the Region’s eight long-term care homes, as well as seniors’ community programs.
Regional Chair Jim Bradley shared his thoughts about the appointment.
“Without question, our Community Services department – encompassing Seniors Services and long-term care, Children’s Services, Homelessness, Social Assistance, and Niagara Regional Housing – undertakes some of the most complex and sensitive work within the Niagara Region,” said Bradley. “With Henri’s leadership, I am confident our staff will continue to deliver exemplary support to Niagara’s most vulnerable residents, while addressing some of our community’s most challenging issues.”
“On behalf of Regional Council, I extend my sincere congratulations to Henri on her appointment as Commissioner of Community Services and look forward to working closely with her as she takes on this significant and demanding role.”
Before joining Niagara Region, Koning held leadership positions in both the private and public sector, mostly at long-term care facilities. She was previously based in Halton and Muskoka.
Koning was recently in charge of the redevelopment of Linhaven in St. Catharines and Gilmore Lodge in Fort Erie. Both are long-term care facilities.
Koning shared her own thoughts about receiving the appointment.
“I am thrilled to take on the role of Commissioner of Community Services and look forward to leading a dedicated team that delivers essential and vital services to our residents,” said Koning. “By harnessing our strengths and fostering innovative partnerships, we can collaborative address challenges and seize new opportunities ahead.”
Ron Tripp, Niagara Region’s Chief Administrative Officer, who was a key part of the selection process, weighed in on Koning’s appointment.
“Henri has showcased exceptional leadership in fostering impactful partnerships across public, private, and community sectors,” said Tripp. “As a seasoned advocate for positive change, she is committed to leveraging technology, innovation and a person-centred approach to ensure high quality care and services for our residents.”
As Director of Seniors Services, Koning was paid a salary of $190,684 in 2023. While her new salary is not yet known, it is likely higher, as this would be considered to be a promotion.
Jay Goldberg is the Ontario Director at the Canadian Taxpayers Federation. He previously served as a policy fellow at the Munk School of Public Policy and Global Affairs. Jay holds a Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Toronto.
