Introducing Tim Murphy, HealthPRO Canada’s newest Board Member! As Vice President of Health at Alberta Innovates, Tim brings a profound commitment to transforming healthcare through innovation and sustainability. His career, inspired by a personal experience, focuses on advancing research and leveraging technology to improve patient care. Tim envisions a future where digital advancements and sustainable practices drive a more equitable, value-based healthcare system. 

We spoke with Tim to hear his insights on procurement’s evolving landscape and his plans to foster collaboration, champion sustainability, and prepare healthcare systems for future challenges. 

What drew you to a career in healthcare?    

My decision to enter healthcare was driven by a life-changing event. My mother passed away from cancer when I was 15 years old. In that moment, I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to supporting research and innovation in healthcare, and to advance data and technology platforms to improve patient care. 

In your view, what does the future of healthcare procurement look like?     

The future of healthcare procurement is poised for significant transformation. It is driven by rapid technological advancements; the advancement of digital and emerging technologies, and the rise of consumerism with an increasing emphasis on sustainability, equity, and value-based care. Healthcare procurement will continue to evolve as an enabler of high quality, accessible, and efficient care, ensuring healthcare systems are prepared to meet the challenges of the future. 

What makes the mission of HealthPRO Canada meaningful to you?  

Improving health systems to attain better patient outcomes is a focus of my work in Alberta and is meaningful to me. HealthPRO Canada’s emphasis on bringing healthcare teams together across Canada and to the work I do at Alberta Innovates helps to achieve this goal. We need to activate all aspects of our health system to enable significant, sustainable, and impactful change. This mission also resonates personally because it reflects a dedication to collaboration and innovation – two essential ingredients to tackling the challenges of modern healthcare.   

HealthPRO Canada’s focus on sustainable procurement practices is particularly compelling at a time when environmental and social responsibility are critical to our future. From supporting eco-friendly suppliers to prioritizing innovative products which minimize waste, HealthPRO Canada is helping shape a greener and more responsible healthcare system. As Alberta Innovates has a cross sectoral mandate involving health, clean energy, and smart agriculture, I am passionate about sustainability and proud to be part of an organization that integrates it into its mission.   

With an accomplished and impressive career, what are you most looking forward to in this next chapter?     

With advances in emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence and machine learning, healthcare is on the verge of exponential change and transformation, and the pace of that change is only getting faster. In my experience, success in the deployment of emerging technologies in healthcare is much less about the technology and much more about how to support healthcare professionals, organizations, citizens, and health systems in the change management process.  I am passionate about participating in this transformation process. 

What are your personal interests outside of work?     

My lifelong passion for hockey continues as I play on two recreational hockey teams, which keeps me active during the winter months. I enjoy the camaraderie of being part of a team and embracing the moment. I also joined a book club last year with a great group of friends. Being part of a book club with friends, blends the joy of reading with the joy of connection, making it a fulfilling experience.    

Favourite quote or motto?   

One of my favorite quotes is from the poet, author, and civil rights activist Maya Angelou: "People will forget what you said, they will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." It reflects her deep understanding of the human experience and the lasting impact of emotional connections. In my personal and professional life, I aspire to achieve a lasting impact and make a difference.   

Looking back on your career in healthcare innovation, which innovation stands out to you as the most impactful or transformative, and why? 

I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Jim Till, one of the “Fathers of stem cell science” early in my career at the Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto. Dr. Till’s discovery was not just a scientific breakthrough, it ignited a revolution in regenerative/precision medicine that continues to shape the future of healthcare, biotechnology, and life sciences.  On a personal note, working with Dr. Till had a profound impact on my career as I saw – firsthand – the passion, curiosity, collaboration, and perseverance required to advance research and innovation. Dr. Till’s friendship, support and mentorship have had lasting impact in my own career journey.