Spokespersons
Dennis Darby, CEO
Appointed CEO of the Ontario Pharmacists’ Association in March 2008, Dennis Darby leads Canada’s largest pharmacists association, representing the professional views and interests of more than 12,000 pharmacists in the province.
His objectives include enhancing the image and reputation of the pharmacy profession; achieving expanded practice models that improve patient care and the healthcare system; achieving agreement with government and other payors for new compensation systems that recognize the value of pharmacists and ensure their business sustainability; and building and enhancing the Association’s drug information and education service for healthcare professionals.
Dennis has a wealth of government relations, public relations, business development and administrative experience. He joined OPA from Procter & Gamble where, as Director of North America External Relations, he led a team of senior professionals charged with building and protecting the image and reputation of P&G and its brands. He has extensive experience working with a wide variety of stakeholders including governments and regulatory agencies, professional and trade associations, consumer advocacy organizations, and business media.
Dennis has served as Chair of Stewardship Ontario, the provincial body that oversees the Blue Box Program; the Canadian Consumer Specialty Products Association and the Canadian Cosmetics Toiletries and Fragrances Association. Currently, he also serves on the boards of Opera Ontario, the Juravinski Cancer Foundation in Hamilton, Junior Achievement of Central Ontario and St. John’s Rehab Hospital.
Dennis graduated from McMaster University in 1984 with a degree in Chemical Engineering and Management, and is a registered Professional Engineer in Ontario.
Janet McCutchon, Chair of the Board of Directors, 2010-11
Janet McCutchon became Chair of the Board of Directors in June 2010. An OPA Board member since 2005, Janet has served as Vice-Chair, and on the membership and audit and finance committees. She also sits on the advisory council of Health Canada’s Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program for First Nations people and Inuit.
Janet graduated from the University of Manitoba with a bachelor of science degree in pharmacy in 1983. She spent 12 years as a manager at Westfort Pharmacy in Thunder Bay and is currently co-owner of Woit’s Pharmacy, an independent pharmacy specializing in IV therapy and palliative, wound and ostomy care.
Janet has lectured on a wide variety of topics including pain management, hypertension, cardiac health, and cholesterol. She has also provided in-service training for the nursing staff and guest attendants at the two retirement homes served by her pharmacy.
An active member of the Thunder Bay Pharmacists Association from 1983 — 2005, Janet served as its president for eight years. She has been a Pharmacy Council member since its inception in 2007 and was co-chair for one year.