Paradis Picked As New ACTA President
ACTA has picked Wendy Paradis as its new president and she’ll take over her new role on May 9.
In announcing the appointment, ACTA indicated that it reflects the board’s fundamental belief that the trade association continue to serve the retail sector as the conduit and voice in lobby, advocacy, education and promotion for those who practice their profession in travel agencies.
In accepting the new post, Paradis said that she’s “honoured and excited to serve as ACTA’s President.”
“I have deep respect for the important role travel agencies play in creating exceptional experiences for Canadian travellers and look forward to working closely with the ACTA team, board of directors and members across the country to continue building a vibrant and successful Canadian Travel Agency community.”
Over the course of her career, Paradis has held several leadership positions where she led the strategic initiatives within top travel organizations including Eaton’s Travel, Marlin Travel, The Thomas Cook Group and CAA Travel.
As well, Paradis has worked in every facet of travel agency sales and operations, including leisure, corporate, and conference services.
She’s also experienced first-hand, many progressive positions in the travel agency community such as travel agent, travel agency manager, national manager of corporate travel, regional director and vice president of travel sales and operations.
Prior to joining ACTA as its new president, Paradis served as senior vice-president of OTEC (Ontario Tourism Education Corporation).
During her nine years at OTEC, she led business development and client services teams in their execution of building high performing, customer-centric organizations for business leaders.
She has also been an integral part to several tourism destination clients looking to build out strategies and training programs that ensure the visitor experience is aligned with the destination’s brand promise.
In announcing Paradis’ appointment, ACTA chair, Mary Jane Hiebert said: “Wendy is an inspired choice by our board, and one we are confident the team at ACTA and our members will enthusiastically support. With over 30 years’ experience in the travel, tourism and association service industries; Wendy Paradis is a testament to creative skills and business acumen. She is a compelling communicator who cares deeply about organizational development, teams, and the individual careers of people who work for her. Most of all, she has a powerful sense of respect and commitment to our members. Please join ACTA in congratulating Wendy on becoming the President of the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies.”
