Released on December 1, 2011
At an Awards Gala in Toronto last night, Social Services Deputy Minister Marian Zerr received a 2011 Canada's Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Award from the Women's Executive Network.
"On behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, I congratulate Marian on earning this prestigious award," Deputy Minister to the Premier Doug Moen said. "Marian embraces the notion that we can be a better government delivering effective and efficient service for the people of this province, and she has been a strong voice for change and renewal. Yes, she is a powerful person - but she is wise and highly competent and compassionate. She exemplifies the best qualities of the Saskatchewan public service."
"I have always believed that strong leadership separates strategically focused, innovative and relevant public organizations from ordinary ones," Zerr said. "I am so honoured to receive this recognition for leadership in the public sector."
Zerr became Deputy Minister of Social Services in June 2009. She joined Executive Council in December 2007 as Associate Deputy Minister, Cabinet Planning. Prior to joining the Government of Saskatchewan, Zerr worked for Health Canada for 30 years and spent the early part of her career as a Registered Nurse. Zerr is a member of the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation Board of Directors and has served as President of the Saskatchewan Group and National Board Member of the Institute of Public Administration of Canada; Saskatchewan Champion for the Federal National Managers Community; Executive Director of the Saskatchewan Federal Council; and Chair of the Qu'Appelle School Board. She was also an active member of the Saskatchewan Registered Nursing Association. Zerr believes in community involvement and has been Director of her local drama club, President of her church's women's group, director and co-director of her church choir and choir accompanist for the past 35 years.
2011 marks the ninth anniversary of the Women's Executive Network's Top 100 Awards, which celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments of Canada's female leaders. To date, 584 women have been recognized. Zerr received her award in the Public Sector Leaders category. For more information, visit www.top100women.ca.
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For more information, contact:
Trish Alcorn
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0916