United leadership team
Our seasoned leaders bring diverse expertise and experience, and passion for our vision of bringing living to aging. Learn more about the team guiding United Active Living’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and growth.
Senior leadership team
Kim O’Brien
CEOKim O’Brien
CEOKim O’Brien
CEOKim is committed to actively building on the company’s founding principals of offering residents an experience that brings living to aging. Under her leadership, United has undergone transformational change to establish and strengthen direct connections between an engaged workforce and satisfied, loyal customers. Her approach has fortified United’s position as a trusted player within the industry and established a leading track record of operational performance. Additionally, her growth strategy seamlessly blends proven experience with evolving preferences and lifestyle goals of residents.
Prior to joining the United team Kim was CEO of Horizon Housing Society, a non-profit that develops and operates affordable and supported housing. During her tenure, the company’s housing portfolio grew by more than 50 per cent and she became a leading advocate for increased investment in affordable housing both locally and nationally. From 1997 to 2007 Kim gained extensive leadership experience as an executive member with Boardwalk REIT.
Kim holds a BA (Honours) in Political Science from St. Francis Xavier University. She’s a director of the United Active Living Foundation and, in 2022, received the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal to honour her work as an influential community leader. In 2010, she was named one of Calgary’s Top 40 Under 40. Outside of work, Kim is known for her love of exploring Calgary’s many restaurants with a particular fondness for Italian staples. She enjoys travelling, learning about different cultures and engaging in conversations that expand her understanding of people and the world.
I chose United because I saw a company leading the way with innovation and I wanted to nurture that vision and expand the potential of innovation in this space. United is a place where we’re actively encouraging people to try new things. I see residents starting new hobbies, making friends, and living their best lives. Employees are coming up with new and creative ways to deliver exceptional living experiences. It’s exciting to imagine the possibilities – and then make them a reality
Arianne Brady
Vice President Marketing and CommunicationsArianne Brady
Vice President Marketing and CommunicationsArianne Brady
Vice President Marketing and CommunicationsArianne Brady brings more than a decade of experience to United, leading marketing and communication strategies in various industries including tourism and hospitality, hotel franchise, corporate services, and non-profit. In her current role, she oversees United’s marketing and sales strategy, brand development, and communications initiatives. Arianne has a proven track record and passion for creative storytelling to captivate audiences and attract new customers. When she’s not capturing the stories of United, she can be found with her family, reading a book, or playing outdoors – and as an avid multitasker, often all three at once. She’s an active community volunteer, enjoying her current role as board director with Norfolk Housing Association. Arianne joined United in August, 2022.
United is focused on creating a living experience unlike any other. This is a place where someone making the tough decision of moving or downsizing stops in for a tour and ends up staying for dinner, invited by their future neighbour. It’s inviting, it’s authentic, it’s home.
Rob Carr
Vice President Finance and ITRob Carr
Vice President Finance and ITRob Carr
Vice President Finance and ITRob Carr oversees financial, accounting and IT strategies for United Active Living. As a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Professional Accountant with more than a decade of senior consulting experience with firms such as KPMG and MNP LLP, he brings a wealth of knowledge and varied industry expertise to the role. In addition to developing United’s annual operating and capital budget, Rob supports financial analysis for the company’s future growth objectives. Originally from Nova Scotia, he brought his love of hockey to the city when he moved to Calgary in 2008. Rob volunteers as an Assistant Coach with the Glenlake Minor Hockey Club and describes an ideal weekend: playing shinny with his sons in the winter, a round of golf in the summer, and dinner with his wife (and likely his favourite, spicy tacos). Rob joined United in March, 2022.
United doesn’t fit the mould of a traditional senior housing developer and operator. It’s a dynamic company that encourages its people to think outside the box. It’s an approach that’s become foundational to building a team that’s both versatile and dedicated.
Kathy Cleary
Vice President Strategic ProjectsKathy Cleary
Vice President Strategic ProjectsKathy Cleary
Vice President Strategic ProjectsKathy Cleary is a seasoned expert in long term and continuing care with more than two decades of experience in a variety of operations and leadership roles. She has also served as a volunteer board member, Vice President, and Treasurer with the Calgary Senior’s Housing Forum Society. As Vice President Strategic Projects, Kathy leads development and implementation of future-forward initiatives that build and fortify United’s position as a senior community of choice and thought leader in Calgary. Her work includes reimagining the company’s culinary strategy, fostering a culture of innovation, and mentoring United’s aspiring leaders. When not in our communities, Kathy enjoys sampling new Calgary restaurants with family and friends. She’s also been known to indulge in a good scary movie. Kathy joined United in August, 2019.
United stands behind its philosophy of relationship-centred care and it shows. In fact, relationships between our team members, residents, and families are a key reason residents and employees say they choose us as their preferred place to live and work.
Kelly Johansson
Vice President OperationsKelly Johansson
Vice President OperationsKelly Johansson
Vice President OperationsKelly Johansson’s business background, more than three decades of human resources experience, and passion for lifelong learning has positioned her as a dynamic and trusted leader in community operations and human resources. Kelly has held several roles within the organization including Executive Director of Operations and Director of Human Resources. Her unique combination of business acumen and genuine care for people has been fundamental to cultivating a workplace culture where performance and compassion coexist. Kelly is an active volunteer, serving as a member of the HR Partnership Council with Mount Royal University, Co-Chair on the board of Ski Jumping Canada, and ski jumping judge and technical delegate with the International Ski Federation. She enjoys paddle boarding (with her cat), hiking, and skiing. She joined United in January, 2015.
I take pride in providing leadership with a company focused on operational excellence by supporting residents and team members to become the best version of themselves. United is a place where there is so much potential being realized among residents and employees alike.
Kera Redlack
Vice President Wellness and Employee EngagementKera Redlack
Vice President Wellness and Employee EngagementKera Redlack
Vice President Wellness and Employee EngagementKera Redlack is a Registered Nurse with a Master of Health Studies and more than a decade of experiences as a teacher, practitioner, and leader in various health care roles. Kera focuses on resident wellbeing through oversight of United’s team of health and wellness professionals. With a demonstrated connection between wellbeing of residents and engagement of a dedicated and passionate team, Kera also leads United’s employee engagement strategy. She’s a passionate advocate for a workplace that encompasses wellness and fun (her preferred title, in fact, being VP, Fun). Kera is an avid reader and adventure seeker with an active bucket list of travel goals. As a mother of two, she volunteers with Girl Guides of Canada and her children’s school council. She joined United in August, 2020.
I love that United ‘walks the walk’ – I feel confident this is a values-driven organization where resident and employee engagement and satisfaction are important measures of success. United challenges residents and employees to think outside the box: finding unique and innovative solutions to ongoing challenges is appreciated and encouraged.
Community leaders
Amy McDonough
Executive Director Fish CreekAmy McDonough
Executive Director Fish CreekAmy McDonough
Executive Director Fish CreekAs Executive Director of United Active Living Fish Creek, Amy McDonough oversees all aspects of daily operations in the community. She supports teams to align service delivery with United’s values, purpose, and quality objectives. With a background as a recreation therapist, Amy established a specialty in memory care in her former roles. She led training and program implementation of the Dementia Butterfly Model of Care with Intercare Southwood and worked as Memory Care Support with Covenant Care Canada. Prior to stepping into the role as community Executive Director, Amy led a team as Manager of United Minds, United Active Living’s proprietary memory care and cognitive support services. When not in the community, she practices active living in all forms: hiking, playing sports, and spending time with her family. Amy joined United in August, 2018.
United’s integrated philosophy is what drew me in. As we collectively put into practice a vision for bringing living to aging, I have seen first hand how new life experiences can positively impact older adults in this chapter in their lives.
Jenn Kitchen
Executive Director Garrison GreenJenn Kitchen
Executive Director Garrison GreenJenn Kitchen
Executive Director Garrison GreenAs Executive Director of United Active Living Garrison Green, Jenn Kitchen oversees all aspects of daily operations, and supports alignment of service delivery with United’s values and purpose. Jenn joined United as Kinesiologist and has since held a series of roles as Learning and Development and Occupational Health and Safety Leader and Acting Director of Operations. Along with a decade of varied experience in the healthcare industry, Jenn earned a Bachelor of Human Kinetics from University of British Columbia, Diploma of Gerontology from Selkirk College, and Master of Leadership (healthcare specialization) with Royal Roads University. Jenn’s world revolves around her daughter and dog. She loves to garden, and as a west coaster, enjoys any activity on the water. Jenn joined United in March, 2017.
The way we operate, our values, and ultimately how we support residents to live and thrive in our communities really resonates with me. We have an amazing and diverse group of residents and employees which contributes to a colorful and vibrant place to work.
Winston Brinson
Director Environmental ServicesWinston Brinson
Director Environmental ServicesWinston Brinson
Director Environmental ServicesAs Director Environmental Services, Winston Brinson oversees maintenance and housekeeping teams and external contractors to maintain the quality of United’s communities. Wince has also served as Housekeeping Lead and Manager Building Operations. Originally from Canada’s East Coast, Wince worked in logistics operations with the Canadian Coast Guard. His varied experience has equipped him with a wealth of knowledge to support United in achieving internal and legislated quality, health and safety, and environmental standards. As a former cook (also with the Coast Guard), he’s been known to work magic with his favourite food, the potato, and enjoys lively debate on politics and current events. He’s also proud of his latest title (nominated by his grandkids): “World’s Best Grandpa”. Wince joined United in May, 2015.
I really enjoy getting to know the folks who live with us. Solving everyday problems and being the reason someone smiles is very meaningful. Working at United allows me to do what I do best and lead a team to do the same.
Ekaette Etokudo
Director Health and Wellness Fish CreekEkaette Etokudo
Director Health and Wellness Fish CreekEkaette Etokudo
Director Health and Wellness Fish CreekEka Etokudo oversees health and wellness of United Active Living Fish Creek. As leader of the community’s Kinesiology, United Minds, and United Cares teams, Eka ensures all aspects of resident’s health come first. Eka started her career as a journalist, which strengthened her communication skills as she transitioned to a new career path, earning her BN in Nursing from Ryerson University. She has served in a variety of roles including as Resident Care Manager with United and as Director of Health and Wellness with other senior living operators. Eka is an active contributor to various initiatives focused on food security including St. Vincent de Paul’s Feed the Hungry program. As a member of the African Canadian Golf Club, her favourite place to spend time is on the golf course. Eka joined United in March, 2021.
United is a tightknit workplace where all departments work together to provide excellent care to residents. United’s integrated model is innovative and meets many unique needs for older adults. I’m proud to lead a team that’s so committed to United’s approach and so passionate about health and wellness.
Jamie Fewchuk
Director Health and Wellness Garrison GreenJamie Fewchuk
Director Health and Wellness Garrison GreenJamie Fewchuk
Director Health and Wellness Garrison GreenJamie Fewchuk oversees all aspects of health and wellness with United Active Living Garrison Green including the community’s Kinesiology, United Minds, and United Care teams. She joined United in her first role as Resident Care Manager in July, 2017. Jamie is a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Laurentian University and she brings a wealth of industry experience from various roles including Resident Care Manager in Assisted Living and Client Care Manager in the Home Care setting. Originally from Sault Ste. Marie, she moved to Calgary in 2014 with her husband and together with their two children, they enjoy staying active, spending lots of time with loved ones, and exploring diverse culinary experiences. Jamie got her start in senior living at 16 and has been dedicated to working with older adults ever since.
When I come to work it feels like an extension of my home and family. United’s approach revolves around human relationships, so it’s important to feel connected. Leading a team that takes pride in building those connections is what makes this community home.
Felicia Ford
Director SalesFelicia Ford
Director SalesFelicia Ford
Director SalesWith nearly a decade of experience leading sales and marketing initiatives for older adult communities in Calgary, Felicia Ford is a driving force behind United’s sales strategy. Leading a team of Active Living Advisors, Felicia has orchestrated robust sales processes which play a pivotal role in supporting occupancy growth. In her previous roles, she supported development and execution of sales and marketing plans to enhance brand awareness and build occupancy in communities across the city. Her extensive network of industry partners has enabled her to amass a strong understanding of the local market’s competitive landscape. At United, Felicia’s approach is deeply rooted in nurturing relationships, which has proven to be instrumental in fostering a strong culture of service, bolstering occupancy, and achieving revenue targets. Beyond her professional endeavors, Felicia finds joy in cooking, entertaining, and maintaining an active lifestyle by immersing herself in nature and exploring new destinations.
At United it’s wonderful to lead a passionate team who enjoys building relationships with residents and partners as much as I do. United offers something really unique in the market and I enjoy developing strategies to help people navigate their options to find a fit that’s right for them.