Chair of the Board of Regents Justin Ladha (2024-present). Photo by David Howells

As chief executive officer of KMK Capital Inc., Mr. Ladha leads one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s largest vertically integrated group of companies with operations across a wide breadth of real estate-related industries. Throughout his tenure, he has overseen significant growth in all strategic sectors of KMK Capital Inc. – asset development, sales and leasing, construction, engineering, assisted and independent living and property management. During his 20-year career, he has distinguished himself in all aspects of real estate, across multiple jurisdictions, with a particular focus on development, acquisitions, finance and sales.

Mr. Ladha holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Memorial University of Newfoundland and an Institute of Corporate Directors ICD.D designation from the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management. He also maintains an active real-estate license with the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of REALTORS.

In addition to his KMK related board roles, he is chair of the Board of Regents for Memorial University, a member of the board of directors of Nalcor Energy – Oil and Gas Inc., a past chair of the St. John’s Board of Trade and past commodore of the Royal Newfoundland Yacht Club. 

Role of the Chair

The Board of Regents was established in May 1950 to oversee the management, administration and control of the property, revenue, business and affairs of Memorial University. It comprises 27 volunteer members appointed by the Lieutenant-Governor-in-Council (provincial government cabinet) and three who serve ex officio. The board is supported in its work by an executive director who leads a small secretariat. To learn more, visit the Office of the Board of Regents.

Chairs of the Board of Regents through history

2024 – present Justin Ladha

2022 - 2024 Glenn Barnes

2022 – 2022 Catherine Duke (interim)

2013 – 2022 Iris Petten

2008 - 2012 Dr. Robert Simmonds

2007 - 2008 Gilbert Dalton

2005 - 2007 Dr. Georgina Hedges (pro tempore)

2004 - 2006 Lorne Wheeler

2003 - 2004 Dr. Georgina Hedges (pro tempore)

2002 - 2003 Chris Decker

1997 - 2002 Dr. Edward Roberts

1991 - 1997 Dr. Janet Gardiner

1982 - 1991 Dr. Charles White

1974 - 1982 Hon. Dr. Frederick Russell

1968 - 1974 Hon. Dr. Gordon A. Winter

1954 - 1968 Dr. Edmund J. Phelan

1950 - 1954 Hon. Sir Albert Walsh