Hockey Canada logo on jersey (File Photo)

Important changes to Hockey Canada’s leadership team.

The organization announced today, the departure of Chief Executive Officer Scott Smith, and the rest of the Board has also agreed to step down.

An interim management committee is being put in place, to guide Hockey Canada until a new CEO and Board can be named.

Hockey Canada says the interim committee will focus on day-to-day operations and ensure progress on the implementation of Hockey Canada’s Action Plan, including reviewing and working with the Board and Members towards the full implementation of the independent governance review recommendations from The Honourable Thomas Cromwell, C.C., former Supreme Court Justice as well as working to facilitate the effective transition to a new CEO and Board.

Members will select a new slate of directors by no later than a virtual election scheduled for December 17.

NEWS | Hockey Canada has made significant changes to its leadership team.

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— Hockey Canada (@HockeyCanada) October 11, 2022

Hockey Canada has recently faced much criticism over the handling of sexual assault allegations by junior players.

Numerous companies have also withdrawn their support from the organization, and the World Juniors competition slated to be played in Moncton and Halifax was put at risk.

Late Tuesday afternoon, the premiers of the two provinces hosting the games released a joint statement about the changes announced by Hockey Canada.

Here is the statement from New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs and Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston:

“The leadership change at Hockey Canada is an important step toward accountability and meaningful change. There are still investigations underway, and clearly there is more to be done, but we are pleased to see these changes and hope it signals they will address the ongoing issues within the organization.”