The former CEO of the Erie-St. Clair Local Health Integration Network is due to receive over a half million dollars in severance, after being fired back in the spring.
Gary Switzer is reportedly set to collect $553,916 after he was terminated without cause back on May 9, although he may only receive half of the total.
The Windsor Star is reporting that Switzer renewed his contract in 2015, which included an annual salary of $289,900 a year. The contract also stated if he’s terminated without cause he would receive 22 months pay, plus one month for every year of employment after April 1, 2015.
Since Switzer has taken over as the new interim CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Canada, starting on August 15, he may only receive half of the severance payout from the LHIN.
The Windsor Star reports that in Switzer’s contract, it states if he lands a job during the 23 months that pays him at least 75% of his former pay, the LHIN will pay out 50% of the balance. If he makes less than 75%, the LHIN owes him a lump sum equivalent to the balance owed, minus statutory deductions.
Swtizer’s current salary with the Alzheimer Society is not known.
Martin Girash, chair of the LHIN board of directors, told the Windsor Star the 22-month severance period is a “safety net” for Switzer if he couldn’t find new employment, which he has.
Girash has not given any reason for why Switzer was let go after 10 years on the job.
No reasons were given about his departure back in May either, despite the LHIN announcing his successor.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Erie St. Clair Local Health Integration Network, we would like to announce the appointment of Ralph Ganter as the Acting Chief Executive Officer,” Girash said in a statement.
“Ralph is a long standing employee of the ESC LHIN and has most recently fulfilled the role Senior Director, Health System Design and Implementation. As many of you are aware, Ralph has a lengthy history of experience in health care, working previously as Program Manager of Hospitals for the Ministry of Health & Long-Term Care (MoHLTC) and, prior to the MoHLTC role, as a Utilization Manager and a Director, Respiratory Care in the region.”
Girash said along with the importance of maintaining operational continuity, Ganter brings to this role an understanding and compassion for the health care needs of the local population and a relentless focus on improving the health care results of individuals.
“As a Board, we look forward to Ralph’s leadership during this important time for the local health care system and the ESC LHIN,” he said.
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