TIABC Voice of Tourism Newsletter – March 20, 2026

When Ian Robertson stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer of TIABC in 2013, I found myself among the first people he called. His message was straightforward: the organization needed help. He asked whether Tourism Vancouver might consider increasing its financial contribution to stabilize TIABC at a precarious moment.

At the time, TIABC was facing significant challenges. A key funding source had disappeared, internal disagreements had caused friction within the board and membership, and several supporters had stepped away. By most measures, the organization was at a crossroads. Yet Ian and the directors that stayed remained convinced that the tourism industry in British Columbia still needed a strong, unified voice, and they were determined to ensure TIABC could continue playing that role.

Ian and I already shared a solid professional relationship. During his time as Director of Sales for Rocky Mountaineer and also as Chair of the Vancouver Park Board, we had built a foundation of trust and respect. That history made it easier to appreciate both the urgency and sincerity behind his request.

Tourism Vancouver ultimately stepped forward with additional support, helping TIABC weather that difficult period even though the organization continued operating in the red for some time afterward.

Two years later, in an unexpected turn of events, my own role at Tourism Vancouver was eliminated. Not long after, Ian reached out again. This time the conversation was different: he encouraged me to put my name forward for the CEO position at TIABC given that he was moving on to lead the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority.

Moments like these reflect the many twists and turns in TIABC’s history…an organization that has evolved through different eras, even operating under the name COTA (Council of Tourism Associations) for a time. Through all the changes, one thing has remained constant: TIABC’s role as the Voice of Tourism for British Columbia’s visitor economy.

This year marks an important milestone for that legacy. The Tourism Industry Association of BC is celebrating its 50th anniversary—a fact I somehow neglected to mention during my closing remarks at the BC Tourism Industry Conference in Kelowna two weeks ago.

Recently I also heard from one of TIABC’s earliest leaders, Rick Antonson, who has been documenting the organization’s history. His work includes a list of every executive director, manager, CEO, president, and board chair that has helped guide TIABC over the past five decades. It’s an impressive roster of individuals who have each played a role in shaping British Columbia’s tourism industry.

During my own time with TIABC, I had the privilege of working alongside six board chairs (in order): Christine Willow, Jim Humphrey, Alroy Chan, Vivek Sharma, JJ Belanger, and Sandra Oldfield. Their leadership, along with the contributions of dozens of volunteer directors, past leaders, staff members, contractors, and advisors helped guide the organization through both challenging and rewarding periods.

Over the course of my decade at the helm (the longest tenure of any CEO or Executive Director in TIABC’s history) the organization navigated its share of turbulence, especially during the pandemic. Today, however, TIABC stands on solid ground with stronger financial footing, a growing membership base, productive partnerships, larger influence amongst decision-makers, and a well-earned reputation within the industry.

On February 1st, I officially passed the proverbial baton to new TIABC CEO, Amber Papou. This week marked the end of my final chapter with the organization in a position I referred to as Transition Advisor. Alongside extensive briefings with Amber, cleaning out files, purging emails, and transferring responsibilities, my last major task was to help ensure the successful delivery of the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference (BCTIC).

And what a conference it was!

From the teams at TIABC and ConnectSeven Group who organized the event, to our program and awards committee, host destination and regional partners, major supporters, sponsors, speakers, workshop panelists, and the 535 delegates who attended, the level of engagement and commitment was truly exceptional. My heartfelt thanks go out to everyone who contributed to making this year’s conference such a success.

I would also like to acknowledge the extraordinary kindness shown by colleagues and friends who took it upon themselves to recognize my years in tourism and with TIABC. Truthfully, I had hoped to keep the focus off myself during the conference but clearly that decision wasn’t entirely mine to make.

The gestures were deeply moving. Seeing hundreds of people holding up signs with my weathered face at the opening reception was something I never could have imagined. Nor would I have expected someone to write and perform a song about me that had the entire room on its feet and even dancing.

The private board dinner attended by current and former directors was equally meaningful. And the closing moment of the conference will remain one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Being welcomed into the Indigenous community with a blanket ceremony led by Brenda Baptiste, Mike Retasket, Cheryl Chapman, and Desiree Baker on behalf of Indigenous Tourism BC…with my entire family present…was over the top. Even now, two weeks later, I’m still reflecting on the depth of that honour.

To everyone who sent messages, shared kind words on social media, included tributes in newsletters, mailed cards, gave gifts, or reached out by text or email, please know how much your support meant to me. There are far too many to name individually, but from the bottom of my heart, thank you!

As TIABC celebrates its 50th year, the organization now enters a new chapter under the leadership of CEO Amber Papou and Board Chair Sandra Oldfield. Their contributions will undoubtedly add to the long and meaningful history of the association.

For my part, I now join former leaders like Ian Robertson and Rick Antonson on the sidelines, watching with pride and continuing to support TIABC and our tourism industry whenever and however I can.

Until we meet again, best wishes for the remainder of 2026.

Best Regards,

Walt Judas

Transition Advisor to new CEO, Amber Papou