The Coalition of Kaiser Permanente Unions is pleased to announce Caroline Lucas as Executive Director. Caroline has worked with the Coalition, and in Partnership, for seven years, first as a National Coordinator in Northern California and, most recently, as Deputy Director. She will be the first woman to lead the Coalition in its 26-year history.

“The Coalition Executive Board has the utmost respect and confidence in Caroline Lucas to lead the Coalition of Kaiser Permanente Unions on a successful journey to enhance the work-life of union members and our upcoming contract negotiations.”

-Tamara Rubyn, Coalition of Kaiser Permanente Unions Executive Board Secretary-Treasurer and President of OPEIU Local 29

Bringing nearly two decades of experience working in the labor movement, Caroline excels at tackling challenges facing modern healthcare workers and driving programs that result in an expanded voice on the job for working people. We are fortunate to have her strong leadership and negotiation skills to support us in preparation for 2023 National Bargaining.

“Next year marks the beginning of negotiations between our Coalition of frontline worker unions and Kaiser Permanente, the largest employee contract in healthcare. We must work towards a future where frontline workers have the respect, means, and support needed to continue to deliver top-quality patient care no matter the challenge. 

I am excited to work with union leaders and management partners to maintain Kaiser’s position as an industry leader in providing care and as the best place to work.” 

-Caroline Lucas, Executive Director, Coalition of Kaiser Permanente Unions

We would like to also thank Steven Ward for his leadership these past two years through one of the most tumultuous times in recent history. After 30 years in the labor movement, Steven has retired from this role to explore new opportunities. During his time leading CKPU, our unions successfully negotiated one of the best COVID benefit packages in healthcare and expanded Performance Sharing Program payouts. We wish Steven the best on the next stage of his journey.