Michael J Ballingall and Ellen Walker-Matthews
KELOWNA – Michael J Ballingall, Board Chair of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, formally announced the appointment of Ellen Walker-Matthews as the CEO of the destination management organization.
Walker-Matthews succeeds Glenn Mandziuk, who officially resigned from the position June 25, 2021 after heading the organization for the past 13 years.
Ballingall indicated that the association is being placed in very capable hands. “Ellen has an extensive history with TOTA during which she has built a stellar reputation. In the past six months she has continued to demonstrate the leadership qualities that both the sector and our organization require as we forge our way through the COVID pandemic and look to create a strong path moving forward.”
“The past 15 months have been incredibly challenging for the tourism industry and individual businesses,” said Walker-Matthews. “I am surrounded by an incredible team and supportive Board and am honoured to play a role in helping the sector not only get back on its feet – but come back stronger than ever and carve out an exciting future for tourism in this region.”
Ballingall and Walker-Matthews. Walker-Matthews has spent the past 29 years living in Summerland, BC – so, it is only fitting that the signing of the formal agreement would take place in the community she calls home.
Walker-Matthews has more than 40 years of experience in the hospitality, travel, and tourism industry, including the last 11 with TOTA in various capacities, including Vice President of Stewardship, Senior Vice President and, for the past six months, Acting President and CEO. She has spearheaded and played a significant role in key initiatives including Biosphere Certification, GreenStep Certification, and Green Destination Top 100; overseeing the Tourism Resiliency Program; development and implementation of regional tourism strategies; and sales, marketing, and business plans.