Message from the Chair and Board of Directors

Saeed El-Darahali
Chair, Board of Directors
WCB Nova Scotia

Embracing positivity, seizing opportunities, and creating a brighter future

Every day, many individuals across our beloved province rise with purpose, heading to their workplaces.

They fill diverse roles and engage in various industries, from top-tier leaders to diligent frontline staff. Whether full-time, part-time, casual, or even gig employment, they all understand the profound significance of work. Work is not merely a means to an end, but an integral part of their lives, reflecting their identity.

Today, we witness Nova Scotia in a state of growth, diversification, and constant evolution. This has been the trend for the past number of years, and we anticipate an even swifter pace of change in the years to come.

As the dedicated Board of Directors for the Workers’ Compensation Board of Nova Scotia (WCB), we deeply commit to workers, and their employers. We extend our support to those currently protected by workers' compensation and aspire that more may be included in the future. We are committed to the principles of reform and opportunities for system improvement.

We are responsible for fostering a welcoming province where workplaces stand as beacons of safety and where exemplary return-to-work programs set the standard that other regions aspire to emulate. The WCB plays a vital role in this endeavour, and we take immense pride in our contribution. We aim to cultivate a diverse and inclusive work environment where our great workforce can thrive and unleash their full potential. It is a proud mission, upon which we deliver in true collaboration with others – we are deeply grateful for our partnership with the Department of Labour, Skills, and Immigration, with our other WSIS partners, and with so many like-minded organizations across our province.

Each member of our esteemed Board of Directors comprehends the significance of delivering exceptional service. The journey of workers and employers through our system is fundamental. Therefore, we strive for genuine end-to-end efficiency, relentlessly pursuing superior outcomes for those we serve. This understanding has laid the foundation for our new Strategic Plan. As we welcome our new Chief Executive Officer, we stand united, eagerly anticipating the tremendous opportunities ahead as we look toward 2030.

When that milestone arrives, we will stand tall, among the leading jurisdictions in Canada, safeguarding individuals, their families, and workplaces from the harsh impacts of workplace injuries.

Throughout the development of our Strategic Plan, we have listened attentively to workers and to employers, and we recognize the need for lower rates and improved benefits. Our plan, aimed at 2030, is laser-focused on meeting the needs of those we serve. Its objectives are clear, and they unify our commitment like never before. We vow to provide regular updates on our progress as we embark on this remarkable improvement journey.

Anticipating a review of the workers' compensation system, we are well-prepared to embrace any recommendations that may be provided. Our plan embodies a realistic and measured approach designed to be responsive, actionable, and accountable to the needs of people injured at work, and their employers. It includes a vision toward which we must all work tirelessly – a Nova Scotia where no one dies at work, or because of their work.

Now is the perfect time for our new Strategic Plan. With the arrival of a new CEO to lead the WCB, our Board of Directors brims with unshakable optimism regarding our capacity to serve more working individuals in innovative ways.

As we venture forth on our path to 2030, we eagerly await the transformative impact it will have on our organization, the employers and workers we serve, and the great province of Nova Scotia.

Our path forward would not be possible without the leadership of those who brought us to this point. In particular, I would like to sincerely thank former CEO Stuart MacLean for his tireless work and passion for safety throughout his 36 years of service. He has put us on a trajectory for an exciting future of possibilities.

Every step of the way, we will provide unwavering support, nurturing growth and seizing every opportunity. Together, let us forge a brighter future inspired by the potential that lies within every one of us.

Saeed El-Darahali, ONS, MBA, BSC, CHR

In 2021, Mr. El-Darahali was appointed to the Order of Nova Scotia and in 2022 was inducted as a Paul Harris Fellow.