In the landscape of Canadian public service, certain leaders stand out for their vision, resilience, and dedication to the greater good. One such remarkable figure is Dr. Harpreet S. Kochhar, who, on January 27, 2024, was appointed Deputy Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). His journey from a young veterinary practitioner to one of the nation’s most respected public servants is a powerful story of perseverance, leadership, and service.
Harpreet Kochhar: A Career Rooted in Service and Excellence
Dr. Harpreet S. Kochhar’s career path is a testament to the value of versatility and lifelong learning. His professional journey began in veterinary medicine, where he practiced in Southwestern Ontario. With a deep passion for animal health and biotechnology, he pursued advanced education, earning both a Master of Veterinary Science and a PhD in Animal Biotechnology from the University of Guelph. His early academic contributions as an assistant professor at the Ontario Veterinary College set the stage for his later leadership roles.
From those beginnings, Dr. Kochhar transitioned into senior roles in Canada’s federal service. His expertise and leadership quickly became evident, allowing him to rise through the ranks of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). During his tenure, he took on the critical role of Canada’s Chief Veterinary Officer and represented the nation as Canada’s delegate to the World Organisation for Animal Health.
Leadership in Public Health and Safety
Dr. Kochhar’s leadership came into sharp focus when he became Associate Deputy Minister of Health in 2020, a critical period as Canada faced the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. His efforts were instrumental in shaping Canada’s response and ensuring that public health strategies were informed by both science and compassion. His impact was further magnified when he assumed the role of President of the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) in 2021, guiding the nation through the later stages of the pandemic with clarity and resolve.
In 2023, he returned to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) as President, overseeing food safety, animal health, and the integrity of Canada’s food supply chain. His leadership during complex challenges—such as food recalls and safety concerns—reinforced his reputation as a steady hand in times of crisis.
Harpreet Kochhar: Championing Immigration and Citizenship
Beyond public health and food safety, Dr. Harpreet S. Kochhar has made a lasting impact in the realm of immigration and citizenship. His earlier tenure as Assistant Deputy Minister of the Operations Sector at IRCC (2017–2020) saw him overseeing critical programs that directly impacted the lives of millions—immigration, citizenship, and passport services. Under his leadership, Canada introduced transformative initiatives like the Passport Modernization Initiative and Predictive Analytics to streamline services and improve accessibility.
Now, as Deputy Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Dr. Kochhar is at the helm of one of Canada’s most vital departments. His role is not only administrative but also deeply human—ensuring Canada remains a welcoming home for newcomers while upholding the nation’s values of diversity, compassion, and inclusivity.
Recognition and Community Service
What makes Dr. Harpreet S. Kochhar exceptional is not only his professional achievements but also his deep commitment to community service. He is an active fundraiser for organizations such as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, and the Canadian Liver Foundation. His passion for giving back has earned him numerous accolades, including the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2012) and the Canada 150 Medal for Community Services (2017).
In 2022, he was recognized by Maclean’s magazine as one of the Top 50 Influential Canadians, further solidifying his status as a national leader who inspires trust and respect.
A Life Beyond Public Service
Despite his demanding career, Dr. Kochhar believes in balance and personal fulfillment. He is an avid cook and enjoys recreational activities such as golf, volleyball, and skiing. These pursuits reflect his philosophy that leadership is not only about professional success but also about maintaining joy, balance, and wellness in life.
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