Meet Our Team

Bev Kobe is a purpose-driven leader who leads with a heartfelt commitment to Goodwill’s mission of changing lives and communities through the power of work. She brings a wealth of experience and a profound belief in investing in people the leadership team at Goodwill.

Beginning her career in the Mental Health care field, Bev worked within the Mental Health Care Program at London Health Sciences Centre for 20 years, initially in the Child & Adolescent Inpatient Psychiatry division and later in the Prevention & Early Intervention of Psychoses Program, supporting adolescents and young adults with chronic mental illness.

Bev first joined Goodwill in 2008 as a Vocational Counselor, where she focused on supporting job seekers with complex disabilities. Her passion for continuous learning led her to engage in a variety of developmental activities throughout her career, culminating in her progression from a Director, overseeing Career Centre services, to Vice President, then Chief Mission Advancement Officer and into her current role as President & CEO.

A strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, Bev has spearheaded initiatives aimed at advancing these principles within the organization. She co-led the launch of an Anti-Racism Anti-Oppression Taskforce in 2020, developing a comprehensive strategy and a Cultural Competency DEI Plan that now guides the organization’s efforts, aligning with its long-range strategic plan. She facilitated the achievement of ‘Disability Confident Employer’ status for Goodwill Ontario Great Lakes through the Canadian Council of Rehabilitation and Work.

Bev also played a pivotal role in designing the framework for the organization’s Wellness Strategy, including the creation of a Mental Health Response Plan, proactively addressing the health and wellness of Goodwill’s employees while increasing access to resources. This includes introducing coaching supports, soft skills assessment and training, and providing expertise in mental health and addictions to cultivate a resilient workforce.

Leadership is at the core of Bev’s approach, which is rooted in a growth mindset. She leverages coaching and a solutions-focused approach to empower others, thereby amplifying the organization’s collective impact. Her commitment to continuous improvement extends both personally and professionally, driven by the belief that change is essential for growth.

Bev has a Youth Counsellor Diploma from Fanshawe College, Psychosocial Rehabilitation Certificate from Mohawk College, Professional Certificate in Leadership from Western University, is a Community Shift Fellow with Ivey Business School and is enrolled in the Executive Development program through Goodwill Industries International. She currently serves as a Board Director for St. Leonard’s Society of London.