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Tourism Calgary has named one of the “rising stars” of the industry as its new CEO following a months-long search.
Alisha Reynolds will begin her role as the organization’s chief executive on June 3. She will take over from Cindy Ady, who announced her retirement last November after a decade in the role.
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“We are thrilled to have one of the industry’s rising stars join Tourism Calgary as our new CEO,” said Mark Wilson, Tourism Calgary’s board chair. “In addition to an impressive resume, Alisha brings with her an infectious spirit that won the unanimous support of the board. With a wealth of tourism business and leadership experience, an appetite for innovation, and a strong vision, Alisha is poised to lead us into a new era of growth and possibility.”
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When Ady announced her retirement, it sparked an international search for her successor. Tourism Calgary said the opportunity generated interest from across North America and beyond over recent months, but Reynolds stood out due to her “exceptional track record, natural talent and blue-sky thinking.”
Reynolds will work alongside Ady through the month of June as she transitions into the role.
“I’m honoured and humbled by the opportunity to lead Calgary’s vibrant tourism industry during a monumental time of growth and opportunity,” said Reynolds. “Calgary has limitless possibilities—our world-class events, venues, and attractions create unforgettable experiences for visitors. Tourism is not just an economic engine; it’s a lifeline for countless businesses and a source of pride for every Calgarian. I am eager to lend my vision and energy to this dynamic landscape.”
Among the biggest tasks ahead for the new CEO is a 10-year tourism strategy for Calgary’s visitor economy that will be unveiled under her leadership. That work will be bolstered as projects like the new arena and entertainment district and the redevelopment of the Arts Commons come to fruition.
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The organization hopes to aid Alberta’s goal of reaching $25 billion in cash from visitors annually by 2035 — a number that stood just shy of $11 billion in 2022. Under Ady’s watch, Calgary’s tourism sector has gone from contributing $1.6 billion to $3.1 billion to the local economy.
Reynolds has a long history in the hospitality industry, having spent the last seven years in leadership roles for Northland Properties, which owns several hotel and restaurant chains.
She was a vice president at the Sandman Hotel Group, responsible for 23 Western Canada hotels and a team of more than 1,000, and most recently led the real estate and development team for brands including Moxies, Denny’s, Chop Steak House and Shark Club. She’s also worked as a corporate lawyer at two international law firms in Calgary and held leadership roles in a range of service industries.
She holds bachelor of commerce and law degrees from the University of Saskatchewan, a certificate in hotel real estate and asset management from Cornell University, and a master of business administration from Queen’s University.
mrodriguez@postmedia.com
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