TIABC Voice of Tourism Newsletter – April 4, 2025

Why I Love Working in BC’s Tourism Sector – A Message from TIABC Board Member Heather MacDonald

I didn’t begin my career in tourism—but once I stepped into it, I knew I’d found something meaningful. There’s a unique pace and energy in this sector that keeps you on your toes, and a sense of impact that comes from knowing your work helps shape how people experience a place.

Over the past 15+ years, I’ve had the opportunity to be in Whistler and work in tourism during some of BC’s most iconic and high-profile moments. From the 2010 Winter Olympics to the rise of Crankworx as a global mountain biking event, to the return of Ironman Canada, and most recently, the Invictus Games, I’ve seen firsthand how this town rises to the occasion. These events not only put Whistler on the world stage—they’ve strengthened our community fabric, created jobs, and helped define Whistler’s identity as a world-class destination.

At Gibbons Whistler, I oversee the operational and business functions across a portfolio that spans après and nightlife, our own beer, festivals and events, wellness, outdoor adventure, and accommodation. Our mission is simple: to make people happy. Whether that’s through a high-energy après experience, a relaxing spa day, a backcountry tour, or an unforgettable festival moment, we aim to create memorable experiences that leave a lasting impression.

I’ve been fortunate to learn from and work with two of Whistler’s most influential business leaders. Lawrence Black, who founded Black’s Pub in 1985, gave me one of my first opportunities to grow my career in this town. His long-standing presence helped shape Whistler’s early hospitality scene and guest experience. Joey Gibbons, whose family began operating in the village in 1979, has built on that foundation—growing a diverse tourism company with strong roots in community, culture, and celebration. Both have made lasting contributions to Whistler’s evolution, and I’m grateful to have had the chance to collaborate closely with the visionaries who helped shape this town.

Next week, we’re especially proud to be producing our annual World Ski & Snowboard Festival (WSSF)—a weeklong celebration of ski culture, athletes, artists, and entertainers that speaks to the very heart of mountain life in Whistler. Bringing the festival back to full scale this year has been a reminder of just how powerful tourism can be when it’s built on local passion and collaboration.

A major part of that collaboration comes from the strength of our industry partners. Organizations like Tourism Whistler, the Whistler Chamber of Commerce, the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW), and Whistler Blackcomb continue to play a critical role in helping shape the guest experience, drive alignment, and support sustainable growth for the region. Their work helps businesses like ours stay focused, aligned, and forward-thinking.

Like every business in this sector, we faced real challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic—but that period also reminded us just how strong, resilient, and essential tourism is to our communities. It reinforced our commitment to what we do and highlighted the incredible people who make it all possible.

What I love most about working in tourism in BC is the challenge and the opportunity. It demands adaptability, clear thinking, and a deep commitment to service—while offering the chance to build great teams, deliver meaningful experiences, and contribute to the vibrancy of the communities we’re part of.