Winnipeg Harvest has named their new executive director after long-time leader David Northcott retired in the summer of 2017.

Harvest's board of directors made the official announcement on January 3, 2018, that Keren Taylor-Hughes is the organization’s new director, effective January 2, 2018.

Harvest said in a release Wednesday that "Keren brings to the role a lifelong passion for ensuring that the most vulnerable in our community are respected and supported, along with extensive work experience from across North America and strong academic credentials. Keren began her career in Winnipeg with Child and Family Services, and over the past 30 years has built an exceptional track record of leading organizations, helping them to achieve greater impact."

Taylor-Hughes says that she's excited to get to work. “I am excited to be leading such a passionate and dedicated team at Winnipeg Harvest. The fight against hunger and poverty must be relentless, and together with the ongoing support of generous and caring Manitobans, we will continue to strive to meet the growing needs of those in our community."

Winnipeg Harvest says they conducted "a nation-wide search and extensive interview process," as they sought out a replacement for Northcott.

"We’re thrilled to have Keren join our team, filling the key leadership role of Executive Director”, said Gail Loewen, Board President, Winnipeg Harvest. Following the retirement of David Northcott, the Board took the time necessary to consider the future needs of the organization and set out a plan for the Executive Director search.

The Board also expressed appreciation to Kate Brenner, who stepped in as Interim Executive Director during the transition period.