Lois Cormack, a visionary leader in the senior living and retirement communities sector, has established herself as one of Canada's most successful CEOs and board members. Her dedication to breaking glass ceilings and paving the way for women in leadership positions is evident through her role as the Chief Executive Officer of Spring Living Retirement Communities. With a 35-year track record of transforming companies in various industries, including senior living, real estate, hospitality, and healthcare, Lois has inspired countless individuals with her unwavering commitment, work ethic, and passion for empowering others.
Recently, Lois attended the Women's LEAD event in Toronto, where she immediately recognized the immense value of this community as a platform for the empowerment and advancement of women at all stages of their careers, including women in leadership roles.
Reflecting on her own career, Lois emphasizes the significance of connection and community for women. She acknowledges the importance of mentors and cultivating a diverse network to make informed career decisions and navigate potential challenges. According to Lois, "Supporting one another through networking events, mentorship, introductions, and recognizing achievements creates a stronger community and propels women toward success."
Actively embracing her role as a mentor, Lois advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion, striving to break barriers and create opportunities for underrepresented voices. She shares her advice, "If I can provide one piece of advice, it's to aggressively pursue your passions, set ambitious goals, and work relentlessly with determination and grit to achieve them." Additionally, Lois emphasizes the importance of building a robust network of influencers who can support one's journey.
In retrospect, Lois realizes that seeking the wisdom and advice of both men and women leaders earlier in her career would have been beneficial. She strongly believes that having mentors and cultivating a diverse network could have helped her make strategic decisions and avoid pitfalls. Lois emphasizes that supporting one another through networking events, mentorship, introductions, and recognition of achievements creates a stronger community and propels women toward success.
Looking ahead, Lois envisions a future centered around Spring Living Retirement Communities. She aims to curate a portfolio of high-quality retirement residences across Canada, ensuring an exceptional quality of life for residents and a rewarding experience for team members. As a partner, board member, and senior executive, Lois provides oversight, mentorship, and strategic direction to a high-performing team. Additionally, she aspires to serve on boards of public, private, and not-for-profit companies, with an international focus on the hospitality, healthcare, real estate, and academic sectors.
Lois actively engages in community initiatives and philanthropic endeavors. In her role as co-chair of the RealPAC Senior Living Committee, she formulates policy positions and advocates at various government levels for access to affordable seniors' housing, care, and services. Furthermore, Lois is deeply committed to mentoring young leaders and has joined the Forum Mentor Program, where she met inspiring individuals at the Nicola Wealth Women's LEAD event. Her dedication extends to fundraising, volunteering, and participating in charitable events focused on healthcare, cancer, and youth mental health. Notable initiatives include The Jack Ride for Youth Mental Health, the Markdale Hospital, and Sunnybrook Cancer. Additionally, Lois serves on the advisory board of Kyto Technology and the Life Sciences Board, supporting innovative healthcare startups.
Given the aging demographic in society, Lois emphasizes the importance of sound public policy to ensure quality and timely care, services, and housing for seniors. Throughout her career, she has been a leading figure in organizations providing services and care for seniors, advocating for effective provincial and federal senior living policies. Lois's unwavering passion for this cause drives her belief that creating a better future for seniors requires collective effort and strategic decision-making.
Lois Cormack's exceptional achievements and unwavering commitment to women's advancement make her an extraordinary role model. Her journey is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the importance of supporting and uplifting one another in the pursuit of success. As more women embrace the opportunities presented by initiatives like Women's LEAD and follow Lois's example, we move closer to a future where women's voices are heard, their talents recognized, and their leadership celebrated. Together, we can shape a brighter future for generations to come.
