Simone Atungo is a visionary executive with over 30 years of proven leadership across the broader public sector and community-based not-for-profit organizations. A master strategist and systems thinker, Simone brings a rare blend of innovation, operational discipline, and transformative insight to every initiative she leads. Her work has consistently driven measurable impact whether through guiding complex change, shaping policy reform, or co-designing inclusive, future-ready programs and services.
As Founder and CEO of Onuera Consulting, Simone advises executive teams and boards on transformational change, systems innovation, leadership transitions, and equitable growth strategies. Her approach is grounded in principles of collective impact, leveraging cross-sector collaboration to address systemic inequities and achieve long-term community outcomes.
Simone previously served as Assistant Deputy Minister (ADM) in two key Ontario ministries: Community Services at the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS), and Workforce Policy and Innovation at the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. In both roles, she championed equity-centered transformation in social policy, labour markets, and human service working across sectors to strengthen economic inclusion and workforce resilience.
Her executive leadership spans healthcare, housing, and education, with a strong focus on mental health, community economic development, and affordable housing solutions. She has served as CEO of Vibrant Healthcare Alliance, and held senior leadership roles at Toronto Community Housing, Mount Sinai Hospital, and Parkdale Community Health Centre. In each role, Simone advanced strategies that improved access to care, strengthened community well-being, and supported the economic participation of marginalized populations.
A long-time educator and mentor, Simone was also a faculty member at George Brown College, where she shaped the next generation of leaders in community health and social services for nearly two decades.
Simone holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Studies and a Certificate in Non-Profit Management from York University, as well as an Executive Leadership Certificate from the Rotman School of Management. She also holds the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors, reflecting her deep expertise in governance and board leadership.