CAO Appoints Joelle Walker as New CEO, Effective January 2026

Friday, December 19 2025 | 09 h 15 min | News

The Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO) has announced the appointment of Joelle Walker as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 19, 2026.

Walker will succeed François Couillard, who will retire at the end of 2025 following a distinguished career of more than 40 years, including a period of steady leadership at CAO marked by expanded advocacy and strengthened partnerships across Canada’s eye-care system.

A seasoned health-sector leader and advocate, Walker brings extensive experience in public policy, health-care strategy, and professional representation. She most recently served as Executive Vice President, Strategy and Operations at the Canadian Pharmacists Association, where she helped elevate the national profile of pharmacists and played a central role in advancing key policy initiatives, including student loan forgiveness and national responses to drug shortages.

Earlier in her career, Walker worked in government relations at the Canadian Cancer Society. She is a lawyer by training and holds both a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and a Bachelor of Political Science from the University of Ottawa. Known for her collaborative leadership style, Walker emphasizes clear communication and practical, outcomes-driven progress.

“I’m honoured to join the Canadian Association of Optometrists and to follow François Couillard’s exceptional leadership,” said Walker. “At a time when demand is rising, optometry’s role as primary eye-care providers is more important than ever. I look forward to working alongside optometrists across the country to strengthen access to timely, high-quality vision care and advance CAO’s strategic vision for better eye health for all Canadians.”

Reporting to the CAO Council, Walker will be responsible for advancing the Association’s strategic priorities, strengthening the national voice of optometry, and promoting optimal and timely access to vision care nationwide.

Dr. Allison Scott, President of the Canadian Association of Optometrists, welcomed the appointment, noting Walker’s strong background in health advocacy and policy development. “Joelle brings passion, insight, and a fresh perspective, along with a proven record of leadership in health-care advocacy. She will play a key role in supporting the optometric community and raising public awareness of the importance of eye care.”

Walker steps into the role at a pivotal moment for eye care in Canada, as the country faces an aging population, rising rates of vision-threatening disease, and increasing pressure on hospitals and specialist care. With the continued development of the National Strategy for Eye Care, an initiative closely aligned with CAO’s long-standing advocacy efforts, her leadership is expected to further reinforce optometry’s role as a core component of Canada’s health-care system.

The CAO Council and staff also expressed their gratitude to François Couillard for his years of service. Under his leadership, the Association expanded its visibility and influence within the broader health-care community and strengthened collaboration across the eye-care sector. His tenure included the successful passage of Bill C-284, a milestone widely viewed as a lasting contribution to eye health advocacy in Canada.

Click HERE for the press release.

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