Florine Lobo firmly believes in the 'art of the possible'. In fact, it's a mantra that William Osler Health System's (Osler) Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer lives by every day.
“Health care can be an environment with many challenges," noted the executive lead behind Osler's new 2024-2029 Strategic Plan, Going beyond for our people and communities, “but when you look at it through the positive lens of 'What is the art of the possible?', everything turns on its head because you're no longer looking at challenges from the perspective of 'Can I do it?', but rather 'How can I do it?'"
Florine believes that forward-thinking vision is clearly embodied in the organization's new five-year strategic plan, shaped by the insights of close to 3,700 Osler team members, patients, families, and key partners across government, the health system, the community and academia.
“It's an ambitious plan that builds on initiatives that were already underway from our previous plan, while evolving our priorities based on stakeholder feedback to truly realize our Vision of World-class care inspired by our people and communities."
She emphasizes that delivering world-class care involves everyone from the boardroom to the bedside – a collective commitment to adopt global best practices that drive exceptional patient outcomes. It's why Osler's strategic plan places 'people and culture' at the heart of its strategic directions and vision for the future.
“Our people are our greatest investment and asset. If we don't get it right with our people, it doesn't matter what technology or equipment we have, or how many hospitals we build, we aren't going to be able to provide the kind of experience our patients deserve."
It's among the many reasons that Florine's approach to leadership is deeply rooted in humanity and a people-first perspective.
“Leadership isn't about a role or a title, it's about people, about who you are as a person and about building trust and relationships," said Florine, who balances a significant portfolio at Osler with oversight for Finance, Strategy, Transformation, Organizational Performance, Systems Integration and Legal Affairs. “I truly believe that everyone is a leader. With my team, I am focussed on providing guidance, removing barriers along the way, empowering them to be and do their best, and then celebrating every milestone together, because their success is my success."
For Florine, success means making a difference in someone's life, whether personal or professional. It's about staying humble, appreciating people, and not taking anyone for granted. The executive, who arrived at Osler in 2016 after progressive leadership roles in other hospitals, wholeheartedly credits her mother with providing her with the values and tools to be an effective leader.
“She taught me early in life that if you lead yourself with humility, integrity and authenticity, it will translate to successes in both your personal and professional life. You can't lead others if you can't lead yourself. As an immigrant to Canada, these values have been my North Star and I try to make her proud every day!"
With major corporate initiatives underway including the construction of Brampton's second hospital, embarking on a new Hospital Information System (HIS), and the expansion of Osler's role in education and research, Florine credits the leadership team for their dedication and expertise in keeping these initiatives on track.
“These are strong, capable leaders who I learn from every day and who will serve the health system well into the future. I will always be their biggest cheerleader and celebrate alongside them as they continue to grow in their careers."
Over the next five years, as Florine collaborates with Osler's leaders, team members, and valued partners, she will continue championing 'the art of the possible' to translate today's greatest challenges into opportunities that deliver world-class patient care and experience.
“At Osler, we're transforming the way we think about health care and the critical role that our team members, patients, families, community and partners play in shaping a more unified and inclusive health system, and I'm excited about where the future is taking us."
Reflecting on her mother's profound impact on her life and values, Florine hopes women, both within and beyond health care, consider growing their careers in what she believes is a hugely fulfilling and impactful sector.
“If you have a passion and drive to truly touch the lives of other people, if you believe in the art of the possible, if you can lead with humility, integrity and authenticity, I can say without reservation that this is the industry for you."