Worldwide Women’s Association Recognizes Gayatri Jayaraman

Dr. Gayatri Jayaraman Appointed DG for Social, Justice, and Indigenous Statistics

Ottawa, August 2025 – Statistics Canada is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Gayatri Jayaraman as DG for Social, Justice, and Indigenous Statistics. Bringing over 26 years of distinguished experience in government administration, public health, and epidemiological research, Dr. Jayaraman is positioned to lead the agency in leveraging integrated social data for innovative insights and public service excellence SignalHire.

A Proven Leader in Public Health and Data Innovation

Dr. Jayaraman previously served as Executive Director at the Public Health Agency of Canada, after holding successive leadership roles across Health Canada, Indigenous Services Canada, and the Public Health Agency of Canada since 2004 SignalHire. Her career reflects a steadfast commitment to strategic planning, partnerships, and rigorous data analysis to inform population health initiatives.

International Experience and Academic Contributions

Her earlier career spanned epidemiological consulting and program evaluation across Canada, East Africa, India, Vietnam, and Bosnia & Herzegovina. In addition to her policy and leadership roles, Dr. Jayaraman serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health at the University of Ottawa, contributing to training the next generation of epidemiologists

Outstanding Recognition

In 2022, Dr. Jayaraman was honored with the President’s Award by the Public Health Agency of Canada, recognizing her extraordinary contributions to public health in Canada and beyond.

Academic Credentials

• Ph.D. from the University of Rochester (Department of Microbiology & Immunology)
• Master of Public Health (MPH) from Johns Hopkins University — the foundation of her data-driven, global public health expertise

Quotes

“I am deeply honored to lead the Social, Justice, and Indigenous Statistics Branch at Statistics Canada,” said Dr. Jayaraman. “I look forward to advancing the integration of social determinants and data-driven insights to support responsive, inclusive policies that serve Canadians.”

A spokesperson for Statistics Canada adds: “Dr. Jayaraman’s exceptional blend of leadership, international public health experience, and academic expertise makes her uniquely positioned to guide the agency’s work at the intersection of social data and innovation.”

About Statistics Canada

Statistics Canada is the nation’s leading statistical agency, dedicated to producing high-quality data, analysis, and insights that support decision-making across government, communities, and the public.

Highlights at a Glance:

• Role & Responsibilities: Director General overseeing Social Data Insights, Integration, and Innovation
• Career Journey: Extensive leadership roles in Canadian public health institutions (PHAC, Health Canada, Indigenous Services)
• Academic Roots: MPH from Johns Hopkins, PhD from University of Rochester; faculty role at University of Ottawa
• Award Recognition: President’s Award, Public Health Agency of Canada — 2022