Russell Williams

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT RUSSELL WILLIAMS

Throughout my career journey, I have always been guided by a desire to empower people to be catalysts and advocates for change. My passion led to my current role at Diabetes Canada where I can help build a world free from the effects of diabetes – a chronic condition which affects almost 12 million people in this country. As Senior Vice President of Mission, my focus is on education/engagement with health care providers, fostering knowledge and connection for people affected by diabetes, advancing advocacy and policy, as well as supporting research and innovation. In partnership with organizations in the public and private sector, Diabetes Canada spearheads improvements in care and coverage that directly impact people living with diabetes and their families. Prior to joining Diabetes Canada in 2016, I had the opportunity to spearhead change in the fields of innovative medicines and life sciences research as the President of Innovative Medicines Canada. As the head of the organization, I participated in several initiatives focused on improving intellectual property, research, access to healthcare and ethics. I chaired the International Code Compliance Network for the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA). In addition, I served as the primary private sector lead for the APEC biopharmaceutical ethics initiative, a group of twenty-one economies that developed international principles for business ethics. I currently serve as Patient Co-Chair. Prior to my corporate career, I worked in Quebec politics as the Member of the National Assembly for the Riding of Nelligan, focused on health, social services, research and development. One of my proudest accomplishments is co-founding the West Island Palliative Care Residence, now known as the Teresa Dellar Palliative Care Residence. Since 2020, thousands of patients and families have benefited from the love and care of the staff and volunteers at this community institution. My career achievements have been recognized through awards including the Life Science Leadership Award with Life Science Ontario and the Lighthouse Award for leadership in the APEC Ethics Initiative. As Chair of the Canadian Frailty Network (provides research related to the frail and aging population), National Chair of the Champions Council for the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA) and Special Counsel for the JBL Group, I am committed to supporting a range of important causes. To learn more about me or Diabetes Canada, please reach out or visit