Dr Sarah Viehbeck is the Chief Mission Officer at the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS). In this role, she leads CCS’s mission teams in advancing the organization’s strategic priorities and driving meaningful impact for people living with cancer today and for future generations. Her portfolio includes Research, Advocacy, Policy, and Information and Support Services. Dr Viehbeck joined CCS in 2026.
Prior to joining CCS, she served as Chief Science Officer and Vice President, Science and Policy Integration at the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and held leadership positions at the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, including as Associate Vice-President of Research Strategy. She spearheaded the development of the PHAC Science Strategy and played a key role in national research coordination for COVID-19 and other infectious disease outbreaks.
Dr Viehbeck holds a PhD and Master of Science in Health Studies and was named the 2023 Distinguished Alumni from Brock University where she completed her undergraduate studies. She is recognized for her collaborative leadership and commitment to health equity, with extensive experience as a boundary spanner linking science, research and public policy sectors in Canada and globally. A bilingual leader, she has worked across disciplines, sectors and jurisdictions to advance public health policy and lead complex changes.