Nancy Hamzawi: A Visionary Leader of Public Health – Success, Challenges, and the Road Ahead
Championing Canada’s Health with Dedication and Resilience
Introduction
Nancy Hamzawi is widely recognized for her leadership as the President of the Public Health Agency of Canada. With a strong background in science, regulatory affairs, and public administration, she has established herself as a forward-thinking leader. Her career demonstrates both the successes and challenges that come with guiding Canada’s public health system, especially during times of crisis.
She represents a rare blend of technical expertise and policy acumen. From her academic achievements in chemical engineering and biochemistry to her two decades of service in Canada’s federal government, Nancy Hamzawi’s journey reflects dedication, perseverance, and vision. Her influence as President is shaping the future of public health for millions of Canadians.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nancy Hamzawi |
| Current Position | President of the Public Health Agency of Canada |
| Appointment Year | 2025 |
| Previous Role | Executive Vice-President, Public Health Agency of Canada (2023–2025) |
| Education | Master of Applied Science (Chemical Engineering), Bachelor of Applied Science (Chemical Engineering), Bachelor of Science (Biochemistry) – University of Ottawa |
| Expertise | Public health leadership, regulatory policy, science and technology, evaluation, environmental policy |
| Career Span | Over 20 years in Canadian federal public service |
Early Career Foundations
Academic Excellence
Nancy Hamzawi built her foundation at the University of Ottawa, where she earned degrees in chemical engineering and biochemistry. These disciplines equipped her with both scientific knowledge and problem-solving skills. Her education fostered an analytical mindset, essential for navigating the complexities of health and environmental policy.
Her pursuit of advanced studies reflected not only intellectual curiosity but also determination to apply science to real-world challenges. This early commitment to excellence became the cornerstone of her career in public service, where evidence-based decision making plays a crucial role.
Entry into Public Service
Nancy Hamzawi’s professional journey began in Canada’s federal government. Early roles in agencies such as the Canadian International Development Agency exposed her to international cooperation and environmental policy. These formative experiences helped her develop a deep understanding of how science, policy, and governance intersect.
From the outset, she displayed a capacity to balance technical depth with broader public policy objectives. This combination of qualities allowed her to advance steadily within the public service, earning her positions of increasing responsibility.
Career Growth and Leadership
Advancing Through Environmental Policy
Over the years, Nancy Hamzawi held multiple senior positions within Environment and Climate Change Canada. She directed initiatives in ecosystems, biodiversity, corporate governance, and international policy. Her leadership emphasized sustainability, scientific research, and multilateral collaboration.
These roles positioned her as a trusted figure capable of managing complex issues while uniting stakeholders. Her leadership in environmental policy not only influenced Canada’s domestic agenda but also contributed to international dialogues on climate and conservation.
Transition to Health Canada
In later years, Nancy Hamzawi transitioned to leadership positions in Health Canada. She became Assistant Deputy Minister of the Health Products and Food Branch, where she oversaw the regulation of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and food safety. This responsibility required balancing innovation in health products with rigorous safety standards to protect Canadians.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, she led the Testing Secretariat at Health Canada. This role involved coordinating testing strategies, expanding access to diagnostics, and ensuring public trust in health measures. Her ability to manage high-pressure situations further reinforced her reputation as a capable and resilient leader.
President of the Public Health Agency of Canada
Appointment and Responsibilities
In 2025, Nancy Hamzawi was appointed President of the Public Health Agency of Canada. This role placed her at the forefront of safeguarding national health security. As President, she oversees disease prevention, health promotion, emergency preparedness, and public health science.
Her appointment signaled confidence in her capacity to lead Canada’s health agenda through both routine and extraordinary circumstances. The agency’s mandate requires careful coordination with provincial and territorial partners, international organizations, and community stakeholders.
Vision and Challenges
Nancy Hamzawi’s vision emphasizes strengthening public health infrastructure, integrating science into policy, and ensuring transparency in decision making. However, her position also comes with challenges. Public health leaders must navigate public expectations, political pressures, and the unpredictability of global health threats.
Her leadership style, grounded in evidence and collaboration, has positioned her to manage both opportunities and obstacles effectively. The balance of positive achievements and negative pressures reflects the complex reality of modern public health leadership.
Contributions to Public Service
Science Meets Policy
A defining feature of Nancy Hamzawi’s career is her ability to bridge science with policy. Whether addressing climate change, regulating health products, or guiding pandemic response, she consistently brings scientific integrity into the decision-making process.
Her career demonstrates how technical expertise can inform governance, shaping policies that have real impact on citizens’ lives. This ability sets her apart as a leader who not only understands science but also knows how to translate it into actionable solutions.
Dedication to Public Health
As President, Nancy Hamzawi continues to champion initiatives that protect Canadians. Her dedication to strengthening health systems reflects her long-standing commitment to public service. She has become a role model for aspiring leaders who aim to merge scientific knowledge with administrative leadership.
Legacy in the Making
Nancy Hamzawi’s legacy is still unfolding. As a relatively new President of the Public Health Agency of Canada, her future contributions will determine how she is remembered in the long term. Yet, her career trajectory already highlights qualities of persistence, adaptability, and a dedication to the public good.
Her leadership during the pandemic, combined with her ongoing role in shaping national health strategies, suggests she will leave a significant imprint on Canada’s public health system. The combination of successes and challenges she faces will shape her reputation as one of Canada’s influential public service leaders.
Conclusion
Nancy Hamzawi exemplifies the qualities of a modern public service leader: scientific expertise, policy vision, and resilience in the face of challenges. Her appointment as President of the Public Health Agency of Canada underscores her capability to guide the country’s health priorities.
While challenges remain, her proven record in both environmental and health policy provides a strong foundation for success. Nancy Hamzawi stands as a powerful example of how dedication and vision can shape the well-being of a nation. Her ongoing leadership will play a central role in determining the strength of Canada’s public health legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Nancy Hamzawi?
Nancy Hamzawi is the President of the Public Health Agency of Canada, appointed in 2025 after serving as Executive Vice-President of the agency.
What is Nancy Hamzawi’s educational background?
She holds a Master of Applied Science in Chemical Engineering, a Bachelor of Applied Science in Chemical Engineering, and a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry, all from the University of Ottawa.
What roles has Nancy Hamzawi held in government?
Her career spans over 20 years in Canadian public service, including senior positions at Environment and Climate Change Canada, Health Canada, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, and the Public Health Agency of Canada.
Why is Nancy Hamzawi important to Canada’s health system?
As President of PHAC, she leads initiatives in disease prevention, health promotion, emergency preparedness, and public health science, directly impacting the health of Canadians.
What is Nancy Hamzawi’s leadership style?
She is known for integrating scientific evidence into policy decisions, fostering collaboration, and addressing challenges with resilience and vision.
