For more than 20 years, Rod Cook has been a leader in business transformation in both the private and public sectors. In his current role as Vice President of Workplace Health and Safety Services (WHSS) at the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB), he oversees all aspects of workplace health and safety programs including the implementation and evolution of innovative programs like the Health and Safety Excellence program.

Before joining WHSS, Rod spent four years as the Vice President of Human Resources. During this time, the WSIB received the Mental Health at Work Silver Level certification from Excellence Canada under Rod’s leadership. Rod has also received individual recognition for his accomplishments. In 2018, the University of Toronto awarded him with the Morley Gunderson Prize for outstanding professional achievement and service to the Centre for Industrial Relations and Human Resources.

Within provincial and national occupational health and safety communities, Rod is an in-demand speaker, leader, and influencer. Rod was appointed to the Prevention Council to provide advice to the Minister and Chief Prevention Officer. In addition, after a nomination by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, the Government of Canada especially appointed Rod to represent Ontario on the tripartite Board of Council of Governors at the Council of the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. Rod has also serves on multiple Board of Directors including National Institute of Disability Management and Research, and Excellence Canada. More recently Rod joined the Stakeholder Advisory Committee of the Canadian Institute for Safety, Wellness, and Performance.

Rod has a Bachelor’s degree in Economics (with distinction) from Concordia University and a Master’s degree in Industrial Relations from University of Toronto. Rod earned the Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) ® designation in 2020.