Maile Conwi has always been a quiet force behind the scenes. As manager of Communications & Content Services at PHSA, not only has she demonstrated unwavering dedication but also championed inclusivity and transformation within her team. Colleagues admire Maile for her ability to show just how much she cares every single day, through her personal interactions and commitment to PHSA’s purpose and values.
“I’ve been fortunate to work with Maile, in different roles and different health authorities, for close to 20 years,” reflects Laurie Dawkins, vice president, Communications & Engagement. “I feel incomplete without her nearby, providing strategic counsel, flagging opportunities, and instilling in me the desire to learn more and be a better leader. As much as Maile hates being in the limelight, there’s no doubt in my mind that she deserves to be there, accepting this award, and hopefully understanding how much good she brings to PHSA and how much she is valued by her peers. Truly, she is a special person.”
In 2022, Maile stepped into the role of interim director, Content Services & Web Strategy, when her colleague Caeli Murray went on parental leave. Her decision was fuelled by a desire to push herself out of her comfort zone and profound care for her team. Maile understood that embracing a challenge is a path to growth, and was committed to ensuring her team had the support they needed.
Maile's support has proven to be a cornerstone of her leadership. Her team members not only feel confident and inspired under her guidance but also know that she's always there for them. She is constantly asking “Is there anything you need from me to help you with your work?” Maile’s approach fosters collaboration, making work not only productive but also enjoyable.
“Bringing smart and strategic ideas, she is a real problem-solver. Maile is a ’roll-up-her-sleeves and dive-in’ kind of manager, especially when it comes to crunch time. In shepherding the Web Renewal business case through the approval process, she was consultative, clear, calm, organized and always kept the core goal of excellent patient care in mind. She does it all with a gentle demeanour and has an easy laugh at the ready,” says Ruth Hartnup, communications officer, Web Strategy.
Beyond her role as a communications leader, Maile is a guide and mentor to all. She encourages her team to explore Canada’s history of colonialism and embraces PHSA’s commitment to eradicating Indigenous-specific racism. Her thoughtful approach to land acknowledgments has sparked many team members on their journeys of learning and unlearning in a safe and supportive space.
“It is a true privilege to get to work with, and learn from, Maile,” said Caeli Murray, senior director, Communications & Content Services. “Maile has a heart of gold; she is always there to support her teammates and the many teams she works with across PHSA. Her thoughtful, curious and compassionate approach – paired with her strategic thinking abilities and her tendency to connect all the dots and see the big picture – are just a few of the many traits that have earned her the respect of so many, and this incredibly well-deserved PHSA+ Award.”
Congratulations to Maile on her PHSA+ Award!
The PHSA+ Awards are part of an internal recognition program that celebrates teams and individuals who bring our PHSA values to life in the workplace. They go above and beyond to serve patients and families across B.C. Read about the other PHSA+ award recipients for 2023.
