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Blood Tribe Department of Health CEO Derrick Fox will step away from his role at the end of September 2025. (Photo: BTDH)

Blood Tribe Department of Health CEO announces departure

Sep 9, 2025 | 9:25 AM

The man who has led the Blood Tribe Department of Health (BTDH) for the last five years will be stepping away.

Derrick Fox will be departing from the role of Chief Executive Officer at the end of September 2025. The reasons for his departure were not stated.

Fox has been with the BDTH for the last 28 years, beginning as a finance clerk in April 1997.

He would go on to serve as the finance director and chief operating officer before being appointed CEO in April 2020.

During his tenure as CEO, Fox led the BTDP through the COVID-19 pandemic, led the expansion of the Bringing the Spirit Home detox program from eight beds to 24, oversaw the development of post-detox and pre-treatment services, and initiated the BTDH’s takeover of Lethbridge’s homeless shelter in 2023.

BTDH Board Chair Marcel Weasel Head commended Fox on his many years of service, saying he always led from his heart.

“His humble leadership, friendly presence, and steady guidance will leave a lasting impact on this organization and our community,” says Weasel Head. “While we will miss his leadership, we support his decision to place family first and wish him the very best in this new chapter.”

Effective October 1, 2025, Chief Operating Officer Kash Shade will assume the role of Interim CEO while the leadership team searches for Fox’s permanent replacement.

The BTDH says the current work plans, reporting structures, and approvals will move forward without disruption, ensuring that programs and services are unaffected.