Bringing People and Perspectives Together
Milestones Newsletter | Issue 14, Spring 2026
PCMCH Governing Council Chair Bruce Squires’ healthcare journey was shaped early by an interest in public policy and the systems that influence society. While studying economics and political science at Mount Allison University, he became curious about how policy decisions affect not just populations, but individuals and families. Healthcare stood out to him as a place where those connections are clear and meaningful.
“I’ve always been motivated by the question of where you can make the greatest difference,” said Squires. “Healthcare sits right at that intersection of public policy and affects people’s everyday lives.”
System Leadership
Over the years, Squires’ passion for public policy and helping others blossomed into a successful healthcare career. He has held senior leadership roles at major hospitals, including CHEO, McMaster Children’s Hospital and, currently, as President and CEO of Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital.
Squires’ experience across the child and youth health system led to his involvement with PCMCH and, eventually, his role as Governing Council Chair, a position he has led since 2022. At PCMCH, he has focused on connecting frontline experience with system‑level discussions, ensuring the needs of prospective parents, children, youth and families are reflected in policy and decision‑making.
“What I enjoy most about working with PCMCH is helping bring diverse perspectives together to inform important healthcare decisions,” he said. “Those connections are absolutely essential and strengthen how decisions are made.”
New Chapter at Holland Bloorview
This year, Squires started his new role at Holland Bloorview, a hospital that supports children and youth with disabilities, injuries and developmental differences. He says he is excited about the role and sees it as an opportunity to advance care that recognizes both clinical needs and the broader social, educational and community contexts in which children and families live.
“Supporting children with disabilities means looking beyond healthcare alone,” he said. “It’s about how systems work together to enable, support and empower children and families.”
He believes that Holland Bloorview is well positioned to contribute to broader provincial, national and international conversations on child and youth health, disability and inclusion, helping to elevate both practice and policy.
Finding Balance
Outside of work, Squires values time with family and the relationships he has built throughout his career. A former competitive swimmer and triathlete, he also finds balance through physical activity.
“I’ve been fortunate to work alongside incredibly dedicated people,” he said. “Those relationships, and the shared commitment to improving care for children, youth and families, are what stay with you.”
PCMCH thanks Bruce Squires for his service and for sharing his insights.
