HRPA appoints Bronwen Evans as new chief executive officer

The Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA), Ontario’s regulator for the human resources profession, has appointed Bronwen Evans as its next chief executive officer, with the leadership transition set to take effect on 16 November 2026.

Evans, currently vice-president of communications, marketing and sustainability at Hydro One, will succeed interim CEO Lindsay Temple, who has led the association since early 2026. Temple will remain with HRPA for a short period to support the leadership handover.

Nearly two decades of leadership

Evans brings nearly 20 years of executive leadership experience spanning business, government and the non-profit sector.

Before joining Hydro One, she held senior executive positions at Medcan, a membership-based healthcare organisation, and served as founding CEO of the True Patriot Love Foundation, a national charity supporting military members, veterans and their families.

Earlier in her career, Evans advised senior Ontario government leaders and served as chief of staff to the provincial minister of finance. She is a graduate of Harvard Business School's Advanced Management Program and holds the Institute of Corporate Directors, Director (ICD.D) designation.

"The board conducted a comprehensive search for our next chief executive officer, with a clear focus on the leadership HRPA will need for its next chapter," said Alison Staples, chair of the HRPA board. 

"Bronwen brings extensive leadership experience across sectors, a strong track record of leading through growth and change, and a clear commitment to building strong organizations and partnerships. We are excited to welcome her to HRPA."

"I am excited to join HRPA at a pivotal time for the HR profession, as the world of work changes and the need for strong people leadership grows," said Evans. "I look forward to listening to our members and working with the HRPA team to create meaningful value for them throughout their careers."

Third CEO transition since 2017

Evans' appointment follows a period of leadership changes at HRPA. The association announced in November 2025 that then-CEO Jodi Kovitz would step down at the end of the year after taking the role in February 2023. Kovitz remained as an adviser until 30 January 2026.

Temple was subsequently appointed interim CEO, bringing previous HR leadership experience from organisations including Durham Region Police Services and Pathwise Credit Union.

"Lindsay stepped forward at an important time for HRPA and brought steady, thoughtful leadership throughout this period of transition," said Staples.

Evans' appointment marks the third permanent CEO transition at HRPA since Bill Greenhalgh resigned in 2017 after 12 years in the role. Louise Taylor Green succeeded him in June 2018 and left in 2022, before Kovitz took over in 2023.

Each transition was supported by interim leadership, with Gary Monk, board member John Hannah and now Temple serving in interim roles.

Focus on members and standards

HRPA operates under the Registered Human Resources Professionals Act, 2013, and its regulations, which govern the use of protected professional credentials and authorise practice inspections.

With more than 24,000 members, Evans' appointment comes at a significant point for the association as it works through the final stretch of Vision 2027, the strategic plan launched under Kovitz.

Her stated focus on listening to members is likely to be central to the next phase of HRPA's leadership, particularly as expectations around professional standards, workplace transformation and people leadership continue to evolve.

Evans will formally take over as CEO on 16 November 2026, with the transition period expected to provide continuity as the association moves into its next strategic phase.

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