Northwest Territories, November 5, 2026 – The Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority (NTHSSA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Fraser Lennie as Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the Sahtu Region. The NTHSSA is happy to extend an early welcome to Fraser ahead of his official start date in February 2027.

Fraser joins the NTHSSA from his current role as Assistant Deputy Minister, Languages and Culture, with the Government of the Northwest Territories. He also brings NTHSSA experience, having previously served as Director of the Quality, Risk, and Client Experience Division. In that role, he led the Office of Client Experience and oversaw programs such as the Indigenous Patient Advocate initiative, helping to strengthen patient-centred and culturally responsive care across the territory.

With nearly two decades of healthcare experience as a Registered Nurse and a longstanding commitment to serving Northerners through clinical practice and health system leadership, Fraser is well positioned to support the Sahtu. Fraser also serves on the Indigenous Nurses Advisory Council with the College of Nurses of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. With strong family ties to the Sahtu and a deep respect for Indigenous cultures and traditions, Fraser is committed to advancing reconciliation, fostering meaningful partnerships, and supporting Indigenous self-determination. He looks forward to building strong relationships with staff, residents, community partners, and leaders across the Sahtu while supporting the ongoing delivery and improvement of health and social services throughout the region.

Fraser will succeed Mimi Hamlyn, who is retiring after a distinguished career supporting the Northwest Territories health and social services system. Mimi first came to the North 27 years ago as a Registered Nurse (RN). Most recently, she served as COO of the Sahtu Region and helped the NTHSSA navigate a leadership transition in the Dehcho Region, where she served as acting COO earlier this year.

The NTHSSA looks forward to formally welcoming Fraser to the role in February and recognizing Mimi’s outstanding contributions to the organization. Until then, Fraser will begin a gradual transition to ensure a smooth handover and continuity.