The Board of Directors of Breton Ability is pleased to announce an important leadership transition. Adam MacNeil, currently serving as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), has been appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) effective January 1, 2026.
This transition follows the upcoming retirement of Harman Singh, who has served as CEO with extraordinary dedication and vision since October 2019. Over her tenure, Harman has guided Breton Ability through a period of profound growth and transformation, leading the shift toward a person-directed and individualized support model and strengthening inclusion for people of all abilities across Cape Breton-Unama’ki. Her compassion, innovation, and commitment have left a lasting mark on Breton Ability and the people we serve.
Adam joined Breton Ability in November 2024 and has quickly become an integral part of the leadership team. Adam is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA). His experience across various government levels in financial management, organizational development, and strategic planning will be invaluable as we continue to expand community-based services and create more opportunities for inclusion, independence, and belonging. Adam’s strong financial and business acumen, paired with a solutions-focused and collaborative leadership style, have been instrumental in supporting Breton Ability’s transformation under the Nova Scotia Human Rights Remedy.
“This is a pivotal moment for Breton Ability,” said Murray Ryan, Chairperson of the Board of Directors. “Harman’s leadership has transformed how we support people with varying abilities and how our community understands inclusion. The Board is deeply grateful for her vision and dedication. We are equally confident that Adam will carry this important work forward and uphold Harman’s commitment to choice and inclusion for all.”
“It has been a privilege to serve as CEO of Breton Ability,” said Harman Singh. “Some of my proudest moments have been watching participants grow in confidence and independence- seeing someone move into their own home for the first time, start a job they love, or find belonging in their community. Those moments capture what Breton Ability stands for. I am deeply thankful to our staff, families, community partners, and participants for their trust and support over the past six years. It is a pivotal time, as the Human Rights Remedy opens the door to a future where people of all abilities can truly live, participate, and thrive in the communities of their choice. I am proud of the role Breton Ability has played in preparing for this new era – an era where individuality is embraced, talents are celebrated, and inclusion is not an aspiration but an expectation.
I am also delighted to welcome Adam into the role of CEO. His vision, leadership, and commitment to human rights and inclusion will continue to propel Breton Ability forward as we enter this exciting new chapter.
“It’s an honour to continue building on the strong foundation Harman has created,” said Adam MacNeil, incoming CEO. “I’m excited to lead our next chapter, which will strengthen opportunities for people of all abilities to live, work and play with dignity, purpose and pride across Cape Breton-Unama’ki.”
This transition reflects thoughtful succession planning by the Board of Directors to ensure stability and continuity. The Board is confident that Adam’s leadership will build on Harman’s legacy while guiding Breton Ability into its next chapter of transformation.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Harman Singh for her years of exceptional service and leadership, and we warmly welcome Adam MacNeil as the incoming CEO. Together, we look forward to continuing Breton Ability’s journey of growth, inclusion, and transformation.
