Pat McLaughlin to Step Down as Hockey Canada’s COO

Pat McLaughlin has announced his decision to step down as Hockey Canada’s chief operating officer and executive vice-president of strategy, effective December 31. The governing body revealed this news on Monday, stating that McLaughlin will be pursuing his own executive coaching, leadership development, and consulting practice.

McLaughlin played a key role as the co-executive lead for Hockey Canada’s inaugural “Beyond the Boards Summit” in September 2023. This summit was established to address issues of racism, sexism, homophobia, discrimination, and exclusion within the sport of hockey. It was a significant initiative in response to allegations of sexual assault involving Hockey Canada’s 2003 and 2018 world junior teams.

Having rejoined Hockey Canada in 2018 as vice president of operations, McLaughlin quickly moved up the ranks to become the chief operating officer in 2023. He later took on the additional responsibility of executive vice president of strategy. Prior to his return, McLaughlin had served as the organization’s director of marketing services and events from 1999 to 2001.

“Pat has been instrumental in guiding Hockey Canada through challenging times, particularly in late 2022 and early 2023,” stated Hockey Canada president and CEO Katherine Henderson. “His leadership has been invaluable, and while we will miss his presence, we are excited for the new opportunities that lie ahead for him and his family.”

This report by The Canadian Press was originally published on November 11, 2024.