June 25, 2024 (WINNIPEG) – The WCB of Manitoba today announced the appointment of Colin S. Robinson as its next chair along with the retirement of its longtime chair Michael D. Werier.
“I am pleased to welcome Colin Robinson as the new WCB board chair. His wealth of knowledge and professional experience makes him a valuable addition to the board and will help inform the WCB’s strategic direction,” said Malaya Marcelino, Manitoba’s Minister of Labour and Immigration.
Robinson, who is from Winnipeg, was chair of the Manitoba Labour Board from 2012 to 2024, and served as full-time vice-chair from 2003 to 2012. He is a respected arbitrator and mediator. Robinson has a bachelor of arts (honours) degree from the University of Manitoba and a bachelor of laws degree from Osgoode Hall Law School.
The WCB thanks Michael Werier for his commitment to the WCB over the last 15 years. Michael’s vast knowledge and expertise has been a great asset to the board. He will be greatly missed, and we wish him all the best in his retirement.
Robinson was appointed following the unanimous recommendation of the WCB board of directors. The Manitoba government appoints the WCB board of directors under The Workers Compensation Act. The board has 10 voting members, including the Chair and three members of each of three representative groups – workers (nominated by the Manitoba Federation of Labour), employers (nominated by the Manitoba Employers Council) and the public interest (appointed by the Province of Manitoba). The president and CEO of the WCB is a non-voting member.
The board is the centre of the governance structure for the WCB. It is responsible for the WCB’s strategic direction and accountable for the WCB’s actions. It is tasked with safeguarding the WCB’s resources and monitoring its performance.
Background:
The Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba promotes safety and health in Manitoba workplaces and aims to help prevent and reduce workplace injuries and illnesses. Working with its partners, the WCB promotes safe and healthy workplaces, facilitates recovery and return to work, provides compassionate and supportive compensation services for workers and employers, and ensures responsible financial stewardship. For more information, visit wcb.mb.ca.