The Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) senior team is responsible for implementing the Health Centre’s Strategic Plan and for overseeing the administration of the hospital.

Learn more about the senior team at PRHC:

headshot of Noel Bennett

Noel’s career in healthcare spans nearly 30 years.

In the early days of his career, he worked as an Emergency RN in Vancouver and in the Middle East before relocating to Peterborough in 2008. He began working in the Emergency Department at PRHC that same year, became manager of the department in 2011, and progressed into more senior leadership roles in subsequent years.

Before moving into his current role as Interim CEO, Noel most recently served as Executive Vice President and Chief Nursing Executive at PRHC, where he provided senior leadership oversight for several inpatient and outpatient medical programs, Patient Flow and Collaborative Practice, and served as the hospital’s representative for the regional Epic partnership.

Noel is passionate about patient care, quality improvement, and the nursing profession. He has a deep connection with and commitment to PRHC and the Peterborough-Nogojiwanong community and region, and to providing a hospital environment where all people feel respected and safe.

In addition to his clinical training, Noel earned a Bachelor of Health Science in Nursing degree (BHScN) in 2008 and completed a Master’s degree in Health Management in 2017. He holds a Canadian Health Executive (CHE) designation from the Canadian College of Health Leaders.

Outside of work, you are likely to find him at an arena, watching his two teenage daughters play hockey.

Dr. Hartleib joined Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) as a Cardiologist in November 2006 and was appointed Chief and Medical Director of Medicine in July 2013. He has held the role of Chief of Staff since 2023.

In his time with PRHC, he has been a strong contributor to the medical leadership team and has served as both a coach and mentor for his colleagues. With a passion for quality improvement and health equity, Dr. Hartleib has provided a strong voice advocating for patients, his programs and the organization.

After earning his MD at the University of Toronto, Dr. Hartleib completed his residency training at U of T, including a year as Chief Medical Resident at Sunnybrook and Women’s College Health Sciences Centre. He is currently an executive member of the Ontario Association of Cardiologists, and an Assistant Professor in the Family Medicine program at Queen’s University.

Evan Lyons joined Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) in January 2024. Born and raised in Peterborough, Evan earned his undergraduate degree at Trent University, and a Masters Degree from Wilfrid Laurier University.

Evan brings a wealth of experience to PRHC from his most recent role as Head of Analytics and Data Solutions at the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC). Over the past five years at the OSC, Evan led the development of the organization’s data strategy, spearheaded the implementation of a top-tier analytics program and data services, and optimized digital solutions and IT processes to enhance operational efficiency.

With a diverse background spanning both the private and public sectors, Evan’s career journey includes roles with Ipsos Healthcare and Interac Corporation, where he played a pivotal role in advancing analytics programs.

Beyond his professional endeavors Evan is involved in multiple boards, and dedicated eight years to executive-level volunteer work with the Sunnybrook Next Generation (SNG) Executive Committee of Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre.

Dr. Janet Hurst

Dr. Hurst joined Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) as an Anesthesiologist in February 2014 and was appointed Chief of Anesthesiology in March 2021.

During her time with PRHC, Janet has been a strong contributor to the hospital’s Medical Advisory Committee and participated in numerous cross-program committees and initiatives. As Chief of Anesthesiology, she provided strong and collaborative leadership throughout the regional Epic implementation, ramp-up of surgical services following COVID-19 slowdowns, and the ongoing health human resource challenges. She has also worked with the Surgical Services leadership team to implement improvements in resource utilization and quality of care.

Sarah Berges is a Registered Nurse (RN) and healthcare executive with more than 25 years of experience across acute and critical care, home and community care, clinical education, system transformation, and hospital operations. Since joining Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) in 2019, Sarah has held increasingly senior leadership positions, most recently as Director, Clinical Operations and Deputy Chief Nursing Executive. Sarah has led complex clinical and health system transformation across the continuum of care. Her leadership has helped PRHC become the second hospital in Canada to achieve the Institute for Healthcare Improvement’s 4Ms Age Friendly Health Systems designation, open its Reactivation Care Unit, launch PRHC atHome, and develop the Lighthouse Command Centre model.

Sarah holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Master of Business Administration, a Healthcare Leadership Certificate from the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management, and certification in critical care nursing. She is also a Sessional Faculty Leader with the Trent Fleming School of Nursing.

Headshot Paula Harrington

Paula joined Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) in December 2023. Paula comes to PRHC after a decade with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto.

With experience in both the private and public sectors, Paula has an extensive career history providing leadership and advice related to human resources, strategic planning, talent management, health & safety, workplace mental health, leadership development and transformational change. Among her other career achievements, Paula has led the design and implementation of a wide range of major strategies and improvement projects, including a comprehensive Human Resources strategy and Workplace Mental Health strategy for CAMH.

Sean joined Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) in 2013 as Director, Collaborative Practice following 10 years with SickKids hospital. Sean currently holds the role of Vice President, Clinical Services & Health Equity and Chief Quality Officer, where he oversees a number of inpatient and outpatient programs as well as Quality & Patient Partnerships. Sean also serves as the executive sponsor for Peterborough Ontario Health Team.

Sean obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in 2000, his diploma in Respiratory Therapy in 2003, and a Master’s degree in Health Administration in 2007. He has pursued additional training and certification at the University of Toronto, Rotman School of Management, and Harvard Business School, and is passionate about improving systems of care delivery to provide the highest quality of care and experience.

Jennifer joined Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) in 2013, taking on progressively senior leadership roles before being appointed an Associate Vice President in April 2021. As of April 2026, Jennifer holds the role of Vice President, Finance & Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer.

Jennifer completed her Honours Bachelor of Commerce at McMaster University. A Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA) since 2009 and a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) since 2012, Jennifer has a robust financial management and financial control background, including prior positions at AGF Investments Inc. and George Weston Limited.

Laura joined Peterborough Regional Health Centre in 2012 and has since held progressively senior roles across corporate services, quality, capital planning, project management and strategy.

Among her other responsibilities, Laura has facilitated the development and rollout of PRHC’s strategic and master plans, aligning mid- and long-term planning horizons, and leading capital redevelopment projects. Earlier in her career, Laura provided oversight for quality and process improvement initiatives across both clinical and support services, with a focus on improving patient experience, access, and flow.

Laura holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from McMaster University and is a Certified Health Executive (CHE) with the Canadian College of Health Leaders. She is passionate about strengthening healthcare services for the Peterborough community and is committed to advancing high-quality, patient-centred care across the region.