Kim launched King Strategies after two decades as a senior executive in the private and public sectors, specializing in health, technology, environment, and social services. With deep political and bureaucratic relationships across Alberta, she brings a strategic understanding of government decision-making from her roles as Director of External Relations at Alberta Health Services and Chief of Staff in the Alberta Legislature.

In the private sector, Kim has successfully shaped policy and secured provincial reimbursement for over 30 medicines and vaccines, including Canada’s first cell and gene therapies. She excels in strategic partnerships, advocacy, and negotiation, working across all levels of government to accelerate access to life sciences innovations.

Her non-profit leadership includes advancing sustainable tourism as head of the Association of Mountain Parks Protection and Enjoyment and chairing the alex.62 campaign for the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation. With expertise spanning healthcare, environment, and public policy, Kim offers a rare blend of industry insight and government relations expertise.

A University of Alberta Honours Neuroscience graduate and avid outdoors enthusiast, Kim is committed to driving impactful change across multiple sectors.

Cindy Schurman is an experienced professional with over two decades of expertise in Market Access and Government Affairs, primarily with AbbVie and Abbott. As the Sr. Market Access & Government Affairs Manager at AbbVie Canada, Cindy has dedicated the past 20 years to representing AbbVie in Alberta, focusing on health policy and access issues for AbbVie’s portfolio of products. She excelled in the development and implementation of strategic planning, stakeholder relations, and leading field brand strategies. Her role included significant contributions to various health committees, such as Innovation Medicines Canada, and active participation as an industry member on several Study Project Councils.

During her tenure, Cindy was the National Business Development Manager at Abbott Laboratories, where she led a key account sales force to drive strategic business partnerships, product development, and customer relations. Her career at Abbott also encompassed 12 years in various commercial roles, including Western Key Account Manager and Area Manager, highlighting her comprehensive experience in the industry.

Cindy earned her BA in Economics and Math from the University of Alberta, providing a solid foundation for her extensive career in market access and government affairs. Her deep knowledge and strategic insights continue to make a significant impact in the healthcare sector.

Courtney is a highly motivated clinical research professional with over seven years of experience in building, communicating, and leading clinical strategies within the life sciences industry, particularly within the medical device sector. Her career is distinguished by a global track record and a proven ability to navigate complex regulatory and market landscapes.

Courtney's educational foundation has been instrumental in her success; she holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biochemistry and a Master of Biomedical Technology (MBT) degree. With this background, Courtney offers a unique perspective and expertise with a solid grounding in the scientific principles that underpin her work.

Most recently, Courtney served as a consultant for pharmaceutical and medical device companies, creating evidence-based materials to support stakeholder engagement and navigate the provincial reimbursement landscapes. Previously, as Global Director of Clinical Affairs at Orpyx Medical Technologies Inc., she developed departmental strategies, navigated North American regulatory frameworks, and facilitated global clinical research. Additionally, she performed extensive medical writing, led the Clinical Advisory Board, and championed various clinical market research and reimbursement analysis initiatives.

Courtney has built a strong professional network that includes key opinion leaders, healthcare organizations, and clinical professionals in Alberta, reflecting her deep understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

Kate Ellis has spent her career deeply embedded in Canada’s research and innovation ecosystem. She brings to the table a background in applied health research and more than a decade of experience working to generate impact from health research and innovation. Kate has worked in government, research funding, and in several high impact research and innovation programs across the country. She is a seasoned strategist with ample experience working with diverse stakeholders across academia, industry, non-profits, government, and start-ups. Kate is passionate about the potential of Canadian innovation to improve health, and is uniquely skilled in leveraging this passion into tangible wins for clients.

Kate holds Master’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, a graduate certificate in Clinical Research, and Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. She has numerous peer reviewed publications and abstracts, and has secured significant investment in grant funding over her career. Kate’s research background coupled with her extensive experience in research and innovation strategy continue to generate impact across the health sector.

Leah brings more than seven years of experience in clinical research across pediatrics, neuroscience, and medical device innovation. She is skilled in leading complex, interdisciplinary projects and building collaborations between diverse stakeholders. At King Strategies, she applies her analytical and strategic expertise to help clients bridge science, policy, and public impact.

Leah earned both her Master of Science in Medical Sciences (Paediatrics) and Honours Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience from the University of Alberta. Her academic and professional background give her a strong foundation in research design, data-driven decision-making, and stakeholder engagement within health and innovation ecosystems.

Before joining King Strategies in 2025, Leah served as Research Program Manager for Alberta Health Services’ Brain-Computer Interface Program. In that role, she helped secure $1.3 million in funded research projects and fostered multi-stakeholder research collaborations, driving innovation and advancing clinical translation of pediatric brain-computer interfaces.