Larry Alexander

President & CEO

Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau

Through his leadership of the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau (DMCVB), Larry has played an instrumental role in the economic transformation of metro Detroit through tourism over the past 18 years, and has been a driving force for change and advancement in the tourism industry overall. His successful early efforts to elevate the city’s profile include a focus on acquiring at least one national or international sporting event each year, including Super Bowl XL in 2006, and the 2009 NCAA Men’s Final Four.

To support this objective, Larry established the Detroit Metro Sports Commission, a wholly owned subsidiary of the DMCVB that also landed the 2003, 2008, 2013 & 2017 AAU Junior Olympic Games; the 2008 Women’s International Bowling Congress; and contributing to the successful bid for the 2005 MLB All-Star Game. While pursuing this targeted strategy, Larry also assumed a leadership role in stewarding the continued growth and development of Detroit’s Cobo Center, the state’s most valuable convention asset.

Designated by then-Governor Jennifer Granholm in 2009 as the state’s appointee to the five-member Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority, Larry oversaw completion of a new, world-class facility in 2015, while serving as DRCFA Chairman. His most recent contribution to his adopted hometown involved leading the team that won Detroit’s bid for the 2015 convention of the American Society of Association Executives, considered a gold standard among conventions. Larry also initiated an international marketing partnership with Windsor, Ontario in 2008, while also successfully championing creation of a fund to assist communities bidding for large special events.

Prior to joining the DMCVB, Larry held significant leadership roles within Westin Hotels & Resorts, becoming the organization’s first African American general manager at the age of 29. In addition to managing Westin properties in cities throughout the United States, Larry oversaw major renovation, repositioning, construction and opening efforts at flagship properties.

For his outstanding leadership in civic arenas, Larry received the 2012 Eleanor Josatis Unsung Hero Award, the 2013 ASAE’s Academy of Leaders Award, the Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Award (State of Michigan) in 2015 and Michigan Meetings + Events magazine’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.

Richard Anderson

Executive Director

Smart Serve Ontario

Richard has worked in the non-profit realm for most of his career.  With 25 years of experience at Sheridan College and Mohawk College, he’s managed large student associations with large budgets and staff, was the licensee for the campus pubs, and oversaw bar and restaurant operations as well as board governance. Richard joined Smart Serve Ontario in July 2017 and has since spent time learning the industry and raising its profile in Ontario. In addition to his role at Smart Serve, Richard also sits on the boards of Arrive Alive/DRIVE SOBER®, and Burlington’s Sound of Music Festival. Over the past year, he’s been active in researching cannabis and its role within the Smart Serve program, and as such brings an interesting perspective on cannabis and its impact on impairment.

Mike Armstrong

Brand Strategy Lead

Google

As a Brand Strategy Lead at Google, Mike studies brand building efforts globally and engages with Canadian organizations to help transform and s he’s led global brands within Canada such as: Budweiser, Stella Artois, Dentyne, and Stride gum. Mike has also spent time working on both ad agency and broadcast sides of the business.

Steve Ball

President

Ottawa Gatineau Hotel Association (OGHA)

Steve has been President of the OGHA since 2014. Previously, he spent 25 years in the consumer publishing business, before leaving in 2006 to become the Vice-President of Media at the Canadian Medical Association. Steve sits on several boards of directors including the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO), and co-chaired the Ottawa 2017 Bureau, a not-for-profit focused on Ottawa celebrations for Canada's 150th anniversary.

Charlotta Barnden Uddén

Head of Partner Insight

Visit Sweden

Charlotta has been with Visit Sweden at their head office in Stockholm for five years. Prior to joining Visit Sweden, she was Business Area Director at Blendow Group Stockholm, setting up operations in Finland and Norway. Between 1997-2012 Charlotta was employed by the British Council, British Embassy in Stockholm. Charlotta holds a bachelor’s degree of social science in tourism management from the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom, and has also studied marketing communications at RMI Berghs School of Communication in Stockholm.

Chris Baron

Senior Vice President, Sales

Global Payments Canada

Chris joined Global Payments Canada in business development in February 2004—a time when emerging technologies like EMV, IP and e-commerce were in their infancy. Currently, Chris leads the Canadian bank and referral partner channel, national telesales, business development, third-party independent sales and the worldwide cloud platform enablement of salesforce and sales effectiveness. Prior to joining Global Payments, Chris worked for Accor Hotels in national association and corporate sales and other capacities. A proud husband, father and athlete, Chris has competed at the Canadian national level for cross country running, completed 55 marathons, three ultra-marathons and was a Guinness World Record holder for the fastest marathon.

Vass Bednar

Senior Policy Advisor

Airbnb

Vass works with legislative bodies and government agencies on fair rules for homesharing. She previously chaired the Expert Panel on Youth Employment for the federal government. Vass earned a master’s degree in public policy from the University of Toronto, and served as Associate Director of the Rotman School of Management's Martin Prosperity Institute, where she worked with urbanist Richard Florida on a range of economic geography projects. A proud millennial wonk, Vass has also worked as a Senior Advisor at Queen's Park, and has successfully completed the Action Canada and Civic Action DiverseCity fellowships. She was previously the co-host of Detangled, a pop-culture and public-policy radio show. 

Victoria Behune

President & CEO

OTEC

Victoria has led OTEC (the Ontario Tourism Education Corporation) for more than 12 years. Passionate about supporting tourism and hospitality businesses in prioritizing their destination and workforce strategies, she has guided OTEC through development of leading edge customer service and leadership programs, in addition to training thousands of professionals. Her extensive expertise includes sales, marketing, destination development and visitor experiences, and she has previously held positions at CAA, Tourism Toronto, McMichael Canadian Art Collection, Toronto Tours, Ontario Place and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. Victoria currently serves on the Board of Directors of Tourism HR Canada (THRC), and has previously participated on boards for Destination Ontario and other destination marketing organizations.

Aaron Binder

Chief Experience Officer

Go Tours Canada

Aaron’s career as a professional disruptor began as a C-section baby. He’s been involved in a variety of projects since then—from consumer products at Clara Gluten Free Water, to politics with A Strong Canada—but has always called Go Tours Canada home. At Go Tours, Aaron has taken the lead on developing notable branding, strategy, customer service and the best social media posts, mostly on a shoestring budget. Native to the area, Aaron welcomes delegates to Windsor and is happy to show you around…in exchange for Go Tours TripAdvisor reviews!

Kevin Black

Owner

Lee & Maria's Market

Kevin is part of a family owned farm market and delivery service called Lee & Maria’s that not only caters to Kingsville residents, but also delivers to homes across the region. Lee & Maria’s works to connect local residents, area families, and tourists with farm life experiences. Kevin is also a communications professional, and spent more than 12 years working as a radio newscaster, morning show host. and award-winning documentary producer.

Benjamin Bohnenblust

Product Performance Manager

Booking.com

Part of the commercial specialist team for North America, Benjamin oversees product performance for the continent, with a close focus on the Canadian market. Prior to joining the North American team, he managed Booking.com markets and local teams in Switzerland and Norway. In addition to more than seven years at Booking.com, Benjamin brings over 12 years of experience within the travel and tourism industry to his current role. 

Cheryl Brown

Managing Director

Le Boat

Cheryl started out as a travel agent at the age of 16, and quickly progressed through the ranks, before being promoted to retail trading director (2001) and then onto managing director (2004) for the First Choice Retail Group, based in the UK. She joined Sunsail in 2007 as managing director, before taking up the position of COO for TUI Marine (The Moorings, Sunsail, Footloose & Le Boat) in 2009, when she relocated to Florida. After a fantastic four years in the sunshine, Cheryl relocated back to the UK to take up the exciting position of managing director of Le Boat, which she loves with a passion. 

Kevin Eshkawkogan​​

Executive Director

Indigenous Tourism Ontario (ITO)

Kevin has been a key player in the development of Indigenous cultural tourism in Ontario since 2003. He helped grow the Great Spirit Circle Trail on Manitoulin Island, one of the province’s most renowned Indigenous tourism organizations that provides culturally authentic Indigenous experiences to visitors, along with marketing support to Indigenous operators. Kevin provided leadership to GSCT formally for over 15 years, and has imparted his guidance to countless individuals throughout Manitoulin Island and Ontario. He works tirelessly to unite Indigenous tourism providers, grow market reach and bring meaningful employment opportunities to the region. A key proponent in the development of the Manitoulin Hotel and Conference Centre, which brought together seven different Indigenous investors and seven different financing agreements, Kevin is a mentor and visionary who works closely with his community to ensure sustainable and organic growth within the Indigenous tourism industry. Kevin was named the Tourism Champion of the Year by the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) in 2015, and he has also been recognized by numerous media outlets for his accomplishments within the industry. He sits on a variety of boards, including Grants for Aboriginal Trail Tourism, the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), and Northeastern Ontario Tourism. He also owns his own tourism business and consulting firm. 

Tania Ferlin

Meeting Professionals Against Human Trafficking (MPAHT)

As Corporate Group Sales Manager at the Hyatt Regency Toronto, Tania loves connecting with meeting planners to help them book their groups and meetings at the Hyatt. She studied hotel management at Humber, has been a member of the hotel industry for five years, and is passionate about how the world of meetings, events, hospitality and tourism brings people together. As a member of MPAHT, Tania is committed to raising awareness of human trafficking as it relates to the tourism and hospitality industry. She contributes by developing partnerships, and speaking to meeting planners, industry professionals, and hospitality management students to educate them on the issue.

Rebecca Godfrey

Director, Tourism and Leisure Group

CBRE Canada

Rebecca has 13 years of consulting experience in the tourism and hospitality industries, specializing in market and financial feasibility studies, strategic business plans for tourism-based associations, needs assessments, economic impact studies and organizational assessments. A notable example of her work and expertise include determining the market and economic viability of a proposed Outdoor Walk attraction at the CN Tower, now known as the EdgeWalk. Rebecca holds a master’s degree in business administration in hospitality and tourism management, and received her Certified Management Consultant (CMC) designation in 2012.

Trisha Grant

Vice President, Industry Relations & International Marketing, Destination Ontario

Destination Ontario

Trisha has held the role of Vice President of Industry Relations and International Marketing at Destination Ontario since January of 2015, where she is responsible for partnership, outreach and regional relations with government and private sector stakeholders across the province, as well as leading the development and execution of Destination Ontario’s strategy for overseas markets. Prior to joining Destination Ontario, Trisha spent two years as the director responsible for Ontario’s international marketing centres within Ontario’s Ministry of Economic Development, Trade and Employment, where she managed a network of Ontario representatives in key global centres around the world to raise the profile of Ontario abroad, and advance Ontario’s investment attraction, trade promotion and innovation mandate. Trisha began her economic development career at the British Consulate-General in Toronto before joining the Ontario government in 2003. Since that time, she has held progressively senior positions in the areas of policy development, project and program management, export development, investment attraction and partnership development.

Keith Henry

President & CEO

Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC)

Keith has been instrumental in developing national standards on market readiness and authenticity in Indigenous Tourism in Canada. A Métis person, Keith has also contributed to the assessment of cruise industry opportunities for Indigenous communities, as well as a national research project assessing the economic value of Indigenous cultural tourism. Prior to joining the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), Keith led the Indigenous Tourism Association of British Columbia (ItBC). He has also held consultation positions in communication with provincial and federal government agencies, in addition to roles administering finances for Indigenous non-profits. Currently, Keith is also the President and CEO of the BC Métis Federation, and CEO of KCD Consulting Incorporated.

Randy Herman

National Sales Representative

CannAmm Occupational Testing Services

Randy has an extensive background in service and safety. As a paramedic, he’s supported flight transportation of patients across Northern Ontario. He’s also assisted the United Nations as a site manager in Indonesia and Africa, including coordination of emergency services and overseeing the health and safety of his team. Randy joined CannAmm in 2010 as a National Sales Representative, working with companies in the planning and implementation of their fit for work programs. He also advises and educates companies to ensure their programs follow the most up-to-date best practices and industry standards.

Fran Hohol

Senior Director, Tourism and Leisure Group

CBRE Canada

Fran has been providing advisory services to the hospitality and tourism industry in Canada for more than 30 years, including market and financial feasibility studies, needs assessments, economic impact studies and strategic business plans for investment opportunities and tourism-based associations. She has extensive experience working within both the public and private sector environments, as well as public-private partnership arrangements. She’s also responsible for CBRE Hotels’ extensive national database on the accommodation sector. Fran is a past board director for the Canadian Chapter of the Tourism and Travel Research Association, and has also participated in the Economic Developers Council of Ontario and Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport’s Meet the Investor Dragons event for the past four years. 

Rob Hunter

Founder & CEO

HigherMe

Rob has led a unique life, and as a result can frequently win games of “Two Truths and a Lie”. He used to sell Japanese professional wrestling VHS tapes and DVDs on the internet, has owned a small student housing portfolio, and owned seven ice cream stores. He is on a mission to run 50 marathons in 50 states and is a proud husband to Emily and Dad to Maisie "Moo" Hunter. He loves using data and technology to make the lives of operators easier.

Jennifer Ibrahim

Tourism Coordinator

Town of Amherstburg

Jen embarked on a career in tourism after being inspired by travel experiences in her youth. She began this adventure at George Brown College in the culinary and hotel programs, and then at Ryerson University for a degree in hospitality and tourism. Out of university, Jen held the role of marketing operations manager at a casino resort. Interested in the revitalization efforts taking place in Detroit, Jen jumped the pond to work for a real estate development company showcasing the advantages of urban living in the up and coming community of Downtown Detroit. As Tourism Coordinator for the quaint and historic Town of Amherstburg, Jen is engaged in all the moving pieces of the department, but is especially fond of the creative process of planning and executing unique events. 

Rae Ierullo

Convention Chair

YetiCon

Three years ago Rae helped create YetiCon, a weekend Geekaway at Blue Mountain Resort in Collingwood. YetiCon is Canada’s only resort convention for gaming and cosplay, and had 750 attendees in its first year, which increased to 2000 in its third year. YetiCon is a weekend that passes in a blur of creative energy, and in he year leading up to it, the event's team follows the concept that “the secret of all victory lies in the organization of the non-obvious”.

Robin Jones

Mayor of Westport; Warden of United Counties of Leeds & Grenville

Robin Jones was elected as Mayor of Westport in October 2014 after serving as a Councillor in the previous term. As Mayor, Robin is a member of the upper tier Council of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville. In this capacity, she was a member of the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark Board of Health in 2015-16, and since 2015 has been a member of the management boards at Maple View Lodge and St. Lawrence Lodge long term care homes. Mayor Jones was elected Warden of United Counties of Leeds and Grenville for 2017-18, and has enjoyed meeting people throughout the Counties and working on their concerns. The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville is one of 13 counties in Eastern Ontario that belong to the Eastern Ontario Wardens Caucus; in 2018, Warden Jones was elected its Chair. This role has required frequent meetings with the Premier and other Provincial Party leaders, Ministers and government staff to discuss concerns, and advocate for issues that affect all of Eastern Ontario. Robin remains committed to the Westport Arts Council and serves as its Chair, is a Warden at St. Paul’s Anglican church, spends time in her studio at the pottery wheel, and enjoys the time spent with good friends and her two retrievers.

The Hon. Sylvia Jones, MPP Dufferin—Caledon

Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport

Government of Ontario

Sylvia Jones has served as the Member of Provincial Parliament Dufferin Caledon since 2007. Her many critic responsibilities have included serving as the Critic for Community and Social Services; the Critic for Children and Youth Services; the Critic for Government Services; the Critic for Infrastructure and the Opposition Deputy House Leader. Since being elected in 2007, Sylvia has introduced many pieces of legislation that have been adopted into government legislation and have become law, including the Social Assistance Statute Law Amendment Act, the Aggregate Recycling Promotion Act and the Respecting Private Property Act. 

Joshua Karam

Co-Founder & CEO

Hyr Inc.

Josh’s passion and enthusiasm for human resources led him to co-found Hyr in 2015. Raised in Ottawa, Josh’s first job was working housekeeping at the Elgin Business Inn. In high school, he worked cash at grocery chain Loblaw’s; he worked his way through the University of Ottawa by making his way up the ladder at Zack’s Diner, starting as a busboy, and eventually serving as the restaurant manager. Josh is driven by helping people find the right fit in their careers, and is an accomplished entrepreneur and human resources executive with a wealth of experience across multiple sectors. Prior to Hyr, Josh lead teams at Marriott, Starwood, Roots and Sky Service Business Aviation.

Megan Knott

Executive Director

Kingston Accommodation Partners

Megan has always called Kingston home. A graduate of Queen's University and Cape Breton University, she has an extensive background in business development and marketing. Megan currently markets Kingston as an all-season destination, executing and managing visitkingston.ca; she also sits on the boards of The Great Waterway and Tourism Kingston. Outside of the office Megan is a proud mom to two beautiful girls, and a community champion for many local charities.

Lisa LaVecchia

President & CEO

Destination Ontario

Lisa joined Destination Ontario in 2013, and previously held the role of Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, where she led the organization’s brand management, and consumer and digital marketing. As President and CEO, Lisa is inspired to elevate Ontario as a preferred, four-season tourist destination in a globally competitive tourism market. Her dynamic leadership style motivates excellence in those around her, and is a testament to the “power of team” to achieve success. Her passion and forward-thinking approach to integrated marketing strategies have led to innovative brand campaigns that are progressive, powerful and showcase the best of Ontario, including the Pan Am/Parapan Am Games “Epic Is ON” campaign and most recently, the “Where Am I?” campaign, both of which have won awards. Prior to joining Destination Ontario, Lisa led the development of mass marketing plans and implemented cross-channel integrated marketing for Indigo Books and Music. As Senior Director, Marketing Strategy and Advertising, Lisa played a key role in establishing Indigo as a leading retail destination. Other past roles include Director of Advertising and New Media for the Province of Ontario, and positions with JWT, PEOPLE Magazine (New York), and Ogilvy and Mather (New York).

James Lockhart

President

Group Lockhart Inc.

James is a leading employee benefits provider to the hospitality industry in Canada, and is endorsed by the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario as a strategic partner. A graduate of the University of Western Ontario, Jame's credentials represent the gold standard in the benefits field in Canada as a Certified Employee Benefits Specialist through Dalhousie University, and internationally as a Fellow of the International Society of Certified Employee Benefits Specialist through the Wharton Business School in Pennsylvania. James was recognized by Hotelier Magazine in 2010 with the prestigious Pinnacle Award as “Supplier of the Year”.

Troy Loop

Co-Owner

Jack's Gastropub

Born and raised in beautiful Kingsville, Troy is a Western University graduate with a degree in business. He refined his passion for hospitality in Toronto, then returned to home to Kingsville to venture out on his own. Troy founding member and CMO of Jack’s Group, a hospitality organization founded in 1989 that owns and operates properties in Kingsville, Canada's most southerly town. A family-run business, Troy oversees marketing, finances and business development, while siblings Trevor, Cindy and Tara, along with spouses Kim, Barry and Troy’s husband Jon manage the day-to-day operations of the organization’s properties. Jack’s Group’s original property is Jack’s Gastropub, from which all the group’s other business have been inspired. The gastropub is located in a historical Kingston homestead (circa 1898), and offers guests award winning, FeastON certified farm-to-table cuisine. Jack’s Gastropub is also a founding member of Kingsville EDDK (Eat, Drink, Dine Kingsville). Inndulgence, Distinctive Inns of Kingsville (DIOK) is the umbrella company that galvanizes Troy and his family’s commitment to accommodations and tourism. DIOK captains three unique accommodations properties, and has proudly partnered with Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island to offer a concierge desk and welcome centre for tourism in Kingsville. Troy is intensely proud of his businesses and the town in which they thrive, and firmly believes in the importance of entrepreneurial partnership, and that experience begins and ends with great customer service.

Lucas Luxton

Director, Tourism Partnerships

Crowdriff

Lucas enjoys collaborating with digital marketing leaders at destinations of all sizes around the world.  His passions include photography, travelling and all-things Apple. He recently returned from vacation in South Africa, where his photographs were the envy of the office. You can connect with Lucas on Twitter @luc9488.

Bary MacDonald

President

Falcon Retail

Barry has over three decades of brand to consumer management in successive roles from brand manager to vice president of sales. Prior to founding Falcon Retail, Barry worked for national CPG companies such as Maple Leaf Foods, Parmalat and Saputo, as well as several boutique agencies. Barry's recent projects surround leading effective consumer engagement in emerging mobile marketing technologies.

Dave MacNeil

Chief Executive Officer

Festivals & Events Ontario

Dave joined FEO in 2017, after four years at the helm of one of Canada's premiere festivals: Kitchener Waterloo Oktoberfest. His career spans 35 years, with an extensive background in programming, operations, production, sales, marketing and promotions in the broadcasting and events industry, including a long tenure at CTV. Other previous positions include teaching event management at Conestoga College, and volunteering in various roles with KW Oktoberfest events over the past 20 years, including past vice president, director of marketing and public relations.

Tony Marzotto

Director, Tourism Policy and Research Branch

Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport

Tony and his team work with tourism partners to strengthen and build Ontario’s $34 billion tourism industry and enhance the visitor experience. This includes providing funding to the 13 Regional Tourism Organizations, considering the diverse needs of Ontario’s tourism sector in the policy development process, and providing tourism data and tools to drive decision making. Born and raised in Windsor, Tony has worked and travelled across Ontario and around the world, and now lives with his family in Toronto where he has spent the last 16 years working in various roles for the Province. 

Larry Masotti

Director, Strategic Relationships

Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS)

With over 20 years of health and safety experience, in addition to his role at WSPS Larry also serves as Secretary/Treasurer for Minerva Safety Management Education, and is an International Review Panelist for the National Safety Council. He is also a member of the judging panel for the prestigious Canada’s Safest Employer Awards. A Canadian Registered Safety Professional who holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Athabasca University, Larry is dedicating this chapter of his professional life to building cultures of safety everywhere by inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.

Richard McKinnell

Assistant Deputy Minister, Tourism Division

Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport

In his current role, Richard is responsible for tourism policy and research, Ontario’s Regional Tourism Organizations, the Celebrate Ontario program, other tourism grant programs and the tourism investment strategy, and oversight of the Ministry’s two historical parks. Richard has over 25 years of experience with the Ontario Public Service. He has been involved in leading a number of transformation and change management projects and has held senior positions in communications, human resources and policy development.

Kathy McLachlan

Manager, Accessibility Information and Referral Unit

Ministry of Seniors and Accessibility

Kathy leads projects that increase accessibility awareness, promote a cultural shift, and work towards greater accessibility in Ontario. This includes leading partnerships with organizations that support tourism, youth, inclusive sport and recreation, as well as initiatives that support innovation in accessibility.

Ian McMillan

International Marketing Specialist

Destination Northern Ontario

Ian has been an integral representative of Ontario’s tourism industry for over 30 years, specifically in Ontario’s North. His past roles include Executive Director of the Algoma Kinniwabi Travel Association, Brand Manager and Acting Vice-President of the Northern Tourism Marketing Corporation, and, most recently, Executive Director of Tourism Sault Ste. Marie. Currently an International Marketing Specialist for Destination Northern Ontario (formerly Tourism Northern Ontario), Ian also sits on the Board of Directors of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO), the Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO), and the Great Lakes Cruise Coalition.

Izabela Muzzin

Owner

The Butcher of Kingsville

Izabela has spent nearly her whole life in the regional wine industry, experiencing firsthand the importance of marketing, tourism and identity. She believes collaboration is one of the easiest, cost effective ways to succeed as a business. 

Ray Nadeau

General Manager

Victoria Inn Hotel and Convention Centre

Raymond Nadeau, is the General Manager of the Victoria Inn Hotel and Convention Centre in Thunder Bay Ontario, and a director on the board of Tourism Northern Ontario. As an advocate of Northwestern Ontario, Raymond is committed to the growth of tourism in the region and has developed a culture of northern hospitality within his team. While developing lasting partnerships with surrounding northern communities, the Victoria Inn has adopted an out of the box approach to staff recruitment. A husband and father of five amazing daughters, Raymond is an avid outdoors man, hunter and fisher, who believes there is no better place than Ontario to raise a family.

Henry Noestheden

Owner

Dutch Boys Chocolate

Henry opened Dutch Boys Chocolate with business partner and fellow Dutchman Cor Boon in 2017, and the business has gained recognition and raked in awards in rapid fashion. Operating out of Kingsville, Dutch Boys Chocolate is known for its creativity, featuring a delightful blend of old-world and contemporary merchandising. A professional sculptor and fabrication specialist, Henry brought his expertise to chocolate making by way of mold making, casting intricate wood patterns (crafted by Cor Boon) to make unique and beautiful chocolate designs. Henry has a master’s degree in fine arts from Carnegie-Mellon, and was internationally recognized for his highly creative installations in major hotel chains prior to returning to live Canada in 2012, after 27 years in the US. 

Shawn Pankow

Mayor of Smiths Falls

Shawn was elected Mayor of the Town of Smiths Falls in October, 2014, after serving a four-year term on town council. In his professional life Shawn is a Certified Financial Planning professional, and continues to operate his practice in Smiths Falls. Shawn is proud to have served as mayor during one of the most transformational times in the history of his community, seeing his town rebound from the economic downturn of 2000 lost jobs between 2008-2015, to one on its way to an unprecedented period of prosperity.

Jean-Sébastien Pard

Manager, Client Experience and Innovation, Facilitation and IT

Airports Council International (ACI)

In his current role, Jean-Sébastien provides guidance and support to the airport community, represents airports’ interests with various stakeholders (regulators, airline operators and suppliers), and encourages industry collaboration to identify improvements in passenger processes and an overall seamless travel experience. As part of his responsibilities, Jean-Sébastien is the secretary of the ACI World Facilitation and Services Standing Committee (WFSSC). He is also leading the development of best practices, implementation strategies and initiatives in the areas of passenger process improvement and simplified passenger travel solutions. Jean-Sébastien joined ACI World in August 2016 with 17 years of aviation experience, including eight years with Bombardier Aerospace, five years with Air Transat and Air Canada, and four years with Aéroports de Montréal. During his career, he was involved in several passenger facilitation and innovation projects, requests for proposals and agreements with multiple aviation industry partners. Jean-Sébastien is an advisor to the Facilitation Panel and the Traveller Identification Program (TRIP) at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and is a member of the One ID, Passenger Facilitation and Fast Travel working groups (IATA-led initiatives supported by ACI). 

Cheryl Peach

Storyteller

Cowbell Brewing Company

Born and raised in London, Ontario, Cheryl came to Huron County 30 years ago to develop a new program for children with visual impairments for the local Board of Education. This training became invaluable when, years later, her spouse developed low vision and eventual blindness. Over her career in education, Cheryl has served as administrator of several area schools, System Principal of Special Education, and was seconded to the Ministry of Education as a Regional Environmental Education Lead. She has also enjoyed a term chairing the Board’s Accessibility Working Group and Environment Committee. The desire to create Cowbell Brewing as a welcoming, destination facility for everyone, dovetails intrinsically with Cheryl’s belief in inclusion and her current work with the Cowbell Accessibility Advisory Committee.

Paul Pepe

Tourism Manager

Tourism Thunder Bay

Paul has held the role of Tourism Manager at Tourism Thunder Bay since 2007.  A graduate of Lakehead University, Paul has spent the last 22 years in the tourism industry in a variety of provincial and municipal public sector roles, as well as business ownership roles in the construction and consulting sectors.  Paul is co-creator or the Ride Lake Superior motorcycle strategy, and enjoys his spare time touring on his motorcycles, or out on the water paddling boarding and kayaking. 

Bryan Plumstead

Tourism Manager

Grey County Tourism

Bryan has worked with the talented team at Grey County Tourism for the past 15 years in destination development and marketing, helping to grow outdoor experiences such as waterfalls touring, trails and cycling, and pairing this with the amazing transformation of the region’s local food, cider, beer and wine offerings. Bryan is a board director of TIAO, and has served in the past as transition co-chair and then director of Regional Tourism Organization 7 –BruceGreySimcoe and the Georgian Bay Destination Development Partnership.

Beth Potter

President & CEO

Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO)

Beth Potter has led the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO)—the umbrella trade association for Ontario’s tourism industry—as President and CEO since January 2011. A distinguished member of the tourism community with more than 20 years of experience in the not-for-profit sector, Beth serves on several industry boards and committees. A member of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC)’s Board of Directors, Beth chairs the organization’s Provincial Territorial Tourism Industry Associations Committee. She’s also a Board Director for the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and Ontario Chamber of Commerce. In addition, Beth holds seats on the Sector Advisory Committee for the Destination Ontario, and Ryerson University’s advisory council for the Tourism and Hospitality Management Program.

Doug Quick

General Manager

Kingsville Golf & Country Club

Doug is a lifelong resident of Kingsville who started golfing at the Kingsville Golf Club at age eight. At 13, he was hired by the Golf Pro Tom Arner, and his lifelong employment at Kingsville Golf Club was officially underway. Having a keen interest in the sport and a knack for playing the game steered Doug towards a golf scholarship at Odessa College in Texas, followed by studying professional golf management at Humber College in Toronto. Doug’s future was set from there, as he joined the PGA of Canada. He became Assistant Professional in 1977, was Head Professional in 1983, advanced to Director of Golf in the year 2000 and has been serving as General Manager since 2004. Aside from the PGA, Doug is a member of the Canadian Society of Club Managers, and serves on the board of the National Golf Course Owners Association for Southwestern Ontario. Doug’s interest lies in the development of golfers of all ages and walks of life, with a special emphasis on introducing young people to the game. He strongly believes in marketing the facility through innovative membership concepts, unique promotions and good old fashion hard work. Doug continues to work collectively with neighbouring golf courses, local businesses and golf, travel and tourism shows to promote the Kingsville area to the benefit of all involved. 

Jason Rizzuti

Managing Partner

Segway of Ontario, Go Tours Canada

With responsibilities as vast as his hat collection, Jason is deeply involved in every aspect of running Go Tours/Segway Ontario from business development and marketing, to HR.  As managing partner, he’s spearheaded the launch and growth of all Go Tours locations—Hardwood Ski and Bike, Ontario Place and The Distillery District. A graduate of York University’s economics program with more than 14 years of experience in the tourism industry, Jason has also served as the Toronto Attractions Council’s Treasurer, and is a current Tourism Barrie and Attractions Ontario board member.

Melanie Robert

Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer

Destination Ontario

Melanie leads the Destination Ontario’s strategy, insights and brand marketing team. Since joining the organization, Melanie has created new dynamic elements for tourism marketing in Ontario, including taking advantage of the digital space that tourists rely on for travel inspiration. She has also worked with the team at Destination Ontario to broaden marketing partnerships with stakeholders. Prior to her role at Destination Ontario, Melanie joined the Government of Ontario in 2005 and worked in a variety of progressive communications and marketing positions at Cabinet Office. In her previous role as Director, Marketing and Digital Strategy, Melanie led a number of award-winning campaigns including Ontario’s Sexual Violence and Harassment campaign #WhoWillYouHelp. Before joining the Ontario government, Melanie worked for a non-profit organization and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. Melanie holds an honours BA from the University of Guelph, a master of arts from the University of Toronto and a post-graduate certificate in communications from Sheridan College. 

Grace Sammut

Managing Director

Resorts of Ontario

Grace has provided leadership and management to the resort and hospitality industry for more than 20 years. Skilled in marketing for leisure travel and international trade marketing, she has participated in several international sales missions to Europe, Asia, Mexico and the US, and is a regular participant at Rendez-Vous Canada, representing the resort sector for business development. Grace has also served on the OTMPC international marketing committee, and is currently a member of the board of directors, serving as Vice Chair. She is also a member of the OTEC board of directors.

Andrew Siegwart

President

Blue Mountain Village Association (BMVA)

Marc Smith

Founder, Travel Writer

marcmywords.com

A former event professional turned travel writer, Marc began marcmytravels.com after turning to his network of friends and family for “what to do” suggestions. Since then, the site has blossomed into six years and counting of travel, adventure and storytelling. Don’t ask him his favourite place to visit, because the answer is he hasn’t been there yet.

Sonya Stevenson

Marketing and Trade Consultant (Latin America)

Destination Ontario

Sonya has been part of the international marketing team at Destination Ontario since May 2000.     Together with her colleagues, she is responsible for the development and execution of Destination Ontario’s consumer and trade strategy for international markets. The team’s work educates international consumers and trade on Ontario’s destinations and experiences through a variety of tactics, including integrated marketing campaigns, partnered Ontario product tours, business-to-business sales programs & marketplaces, and travel trade training programs. Sonya also manages the Ontario presence at Rendezvous Canada, the signature tourism marketplace for international travel trade to connect with Canada’s tourism industry partners. Prior to her role at Destination Ontario, Sonya spent three years on the leisure travel team at Tourism Vancouver.  She also conducted research on the community/regional impacts of tourism development at Simon Fraser University.

Darlene Upton

Vice President, Protected Areas Establishment and Conservation

Parks Canada

Darlene has been with Parks Canada for 22 years in various roles. In 2012, she was appointed as the agency’s first Waterways Executive Director. In 2016, this role expanded to also include the five national parks, one national urban park, 31 historic sites and two marine conservation areas in Ontario, in addition to the historic waterways in Quebec and Ontario. In that role, Darlene was responsible for developing innovative approaches to address the unique challenges of managing heritage canals. She works with multiple levels of government, business and hydro, boating and tourism industry partners. In 2015 she was awarded the Gord Blake Visionary Award for leadership in the marine industry in Ontario.

Geoff Waycik

Director, Historic Sites

St. Lawrence Parks Commission

Geoff is a long time Kingston resident and has spent much of his career in the world of manufacturing, applying Six Sigma and Lean principles to grow and improve operations by focusing on customer value and stakeholder return.  Geoff joined the tourism industry in 2013 with the St. Lawrence Parks Commission as Manager of Upper Canada Village.  He is currently leads Fort Henry, Upper Canada Village and Kingston Penitentiary Tours, where a half million tourists visit each year.

Ann Weir

Economic Development Manager

United Counties of Leeds & Grenville

Ann's role includes managing economic development through a collaborative environment with ten municipalities and four partner communities to positively influence the growth and well-being of the Counties and its communities. Ann has worked collaboratively across the region for years to build the investment opportunities along the Rideau Canal, Ontario’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the world-famous 1000 Islands/St. Lawrence waterways. She is currently co-chair of the 1000 Islands and Rideau Canal Garden Trail, which was Canada’s only trail to be selected for the coveted “Canada 150^th Garden Experience” list in 2017. Ann is also the Interim President of the Rideau Heritage Route Tourism Association, and led The Great Waterway through its founding years. She has a very strong belief in the importance of relationships, networks and partnerships, and is a visionary with a strong work ethic and passion for results.