Dr. Kitts is an outstanding leader. I have watched his development as a health care leader since his appointment as the new CEO of The Ottawa Hospital. He has matured from an excellent medical leader in his previous position, into a seasoned and distinguished CEO.

One of Dr. Kitts' most endearing qualities is the time he spends with future leaders in the organization, encouraging them to pursue their goals in the health care delivery system, whether it be through the management route or through other professional endeavours.

I feel that Dr. Kitts is one of a very small group of health leaders that is truly making a difference, not only in the leadership of his organization but also in the much needed leadership at the provincial and national levels of our health care system.

James R. Nininger, former president and CEO of the Conference Board of Canada

To best summarize Dr. Kitts' leadership style, I would simply state that he leads by way of example. He is present and engaged at all senior management team committee meetings. Dr. Kitts has regular meetings with all clinical department chairs. He keeps all department and division heads well informed of all hospital projects and initiatives. He has open discussions with physician leaders and any decision affecting health care delivery is an informed decision. Dr. Kitts has also instigated breakfast meetings with the CEO and small groups of front-line physicians to allow for candid one-on-one dialogue.

In my career, I have worked with many CEOs and Dr. Jack Kitts is one of the most talented leaders I have had the privilege to work with.

Éric Poulin, MD, MSc, FRCSC, surgeon-in-chief, The Ottawa Hospital

Dr. Kitts has been an outstanding role model and mentor for developing physician leaders. He recognizes the importance of physician leadership in delivery of world-class health care and makes an effort to identify and develop potential physician leaders.

Dr. Kitts has demonstrated his commitment by supporting and sponsoring physicians for formal leadership training through CSPE and other opportunities. I am one of several physicians he has sponsored to complete an EMBA. With all EMBA candidates, he provides mentorship and supervises health care consulting projects which result in improved health care delivery.

Over the past year, he recognized that female physicians are underrepresented in health care administration leadership. He supported the development of a Female Physician Leadership Committee at The Ottawa Hospital, including financial support to conduct the research necessary to understand the barriers and enablers for female physicians to assume leadership roles.

Virginia Roth, MD, FRCP, director, Infection Control Program, The Ottawa Hospital