Kristy James
President and CEO, Burnaby Hospital Foundation
Kristy James’ career began in the not-for-profit sector at Lions Gate Hospital Foundation, where she spent nine years before joining Cystic Fibrosis Canada as executive director for Western Canada. More recently, she served as CEO of Variety – The Children’s Charity of B.C. In her current role as president and CEO of Burnaby Hospital Foundation, James is working to make Burnaby Hospital and Burnaby Community Health Services stronger.
After launching the foundation’s first capital campaign in 2020, James and her team went on to raise a record-breaking $52 million for the organization in under four years.
James is currently vice-chair for Pacific Assistance Dogs Society and serves on the Canada Council for the Association of Healthcare Philanthropy. She was the recipient of the 2024 BCIT Distinguished Alumni Award.
What career accomplishment are you most proud of and why?
I’m most proud of the work I’ve accomplished at Burnaby Hospital. When I first joined, the foundation was raising around $2.5 million to $3 million annually with a small team of just three people. Since then, we’ve built a strong, collaborative team that not only supports the hospital but also promotes health and wellness throughout the community. Today, we raise over $8 million each year and have successfully engaged dozens of new volunteers, board members and donors. Seeing the incredible impact our team has made in the community is something I’m truly proud of.
What has been your toughest business or professional decision to date?
One of the toughest decisions in my career was leaving a great and stable job to step into my first role as an executive director. I truly enjoyed my work and the people I worked with, but it felt like the right time to take the next step. Although I had some doubts at the time, looking back, it turned out to be the best decision I could have made.
What does it take to be a successful business leader in 2025?
Being a successful leader requires the ability to build and support a strong, collaborative team. It’s about empowering others, and creating an environment where people feel valued and motivated. As a CEO, I recognize that I don’t have expertise in every role, which is why I appreciate working closely with those who bring different skills and perspectives. I intentionally seek out individuals with diverse strengths to enhance our collective thinking. In my industry, engaging the broader community is essential and success comes from fostering meaningful community partnerships. This allows for a more holistic, collaborative approach to achieving shared goals.
What do you wish you knew when you were first starting out in your career?
I wish I had understood the true meaning of work-life balance earlier in my career. Now that my kids are older, I find myself able to spend more time with them than I could when they were younger. Looking back, I was deeply focused on working hard and advancing in my career, almost as if it were a race to get to where I am now. In hindsight, I realize that treating it more like a marathon—pacing myself and finding better balance along the way—would have been just as effective and possibly more fulfilling.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned in business?
Not all leaders are the same, there are many different characteristics to leaders. And the most important lesson I’ve learned is the value of being an authentic leader. Success comes from embracing your own leadership style rather than trying to fit a mold. Staying true to who you are while continuously growing and adapting.
Best piece of advice ever received?
The journey won’t always be easy, but both the highs and the lows will offer valuable lessons. Always be open and try to recognize how each experience helped you grow stronger and more resilient.
What is your definition of success?
My definition of success is finding meaningful balance while making a lasting impact both at home and in the community. As a fundraiser, success is measured by the relationships built, the resources secured and the difference made in people’s lives. As a mom, it’s about nurturing, guiding and supporting your children as they grow. True success comes from knowing you are making a difference in both worlds, even if the balance isn’t always perfect.
What are you most passionate about outside of work?
My kids are my biggest passion. I love watching my son play soccer on the weekends, and it’s exciting to see my daughter begin exploring a career in the non-profit sector. They inspire me in so many ways, and they’re also the reason I’m passionate about working in the non-profit industry. Through my work and volunteer efforts, I’m able to help make their community a better place, which fills me with pride knowing that the causes I support today will benefit them in the future.
What are you looking forward to this year?
I’m incredibly excited to see the first phase of the Burnaby Hospital redevelopment open this fall. The impact this will have on the community will be amazing, with new departments, clinics and more dedicated space. I’m thrilled about an upcoming trip to Japan with my kids. It’s been my son’s dream for years, and I’m so excited to be able to experience this adventure with them. This year feels full of professional milestones and personal joys, and I’m looking forward to everything it brings.
A personal motto, or favourite phrase or saying, that resonates with you?
“To thine own self be true.” Stay true to yourself, live authentically and honestly and don’t try to be something you are not.
A philanthropic, charitable or community-oriented cause or organization you support?
I’m vice-chair for the Pacific Assistance Dog Society. I also chair an event for North Shore Family Services, supporting women impacted by abuse or violence.
What do you do to unwind, relax or de-stress?
I like to unwind with a funny movie or a good workout at the gym. Both are perfect ways to recharge and mentally reset.
Favourite place in the province?
In summer it is Penticton visiting my dad and touring the wineries—it’s a great getaway. In the winter nothing beats beautiful Whistler.
Favourite restaurant(s)?
My husband and I usually celebrate our anniversary at Nightingale! It’s got the best food and great environment!
A book or podcast you would recommend?
Nine Lies about Work by Marcus Buckingham was a great read. And recently I have been listening to the Mel Robbins podcast.
What is your best habit?
I like tackling today’s tasks rather than pushing them to tomorrow. I prefer to handle small tasks right away and clear them off my plate.
A B.C. business leader you admire?
The one that stands out most recently is Ryan Beedie. He is extremely approachable, community minded and driven to further his family’s legacy.
Tell us one surprising or little-known fact about yourself.
I enjoy golfing and can (occasionally) drive the ball 200 yards.
