TIABC Voice of Tourism Newsletter – October 3, 2025

Aside from caddying, picking strawberries, and cutting lawns, my first real job was working at the Richmond Country Club where for $3.00 an hour I cleaned members’ golf clubs, washed golf carts, picked up range balls, and sold golf gear in the pro shop. I loved every minute of it.

I went on to work at Beaver Lumber and then as a labourer before entering BCIT’s Broadcast Journalism Program and transitioning into my first career gig as a broadcaster. From there I progressed to roles with BC Pavco, the Vancouver Port Authority, Tourism Vancouver, and finally TIABC, initially on contract as part of my company – Parkside Tourism Consulting.

Since it’s gone by so quickly, it’s hard for me to come to grips with the fact that I’ve been in the workforce for nearly 50 years, all but six of which have been full-time. Suffice it to say, I am well aware that while my mind often tricks me into believing I’m still in my twenties, qualifying for the senior’s discount at the barbershop and the bags under my eyes tell me otherwise.

All of this is context for letting you know that I’m stepping down as CEO of TIABC within the next few months. Like a professional athlete who realizes they can no longer embrace another training camp, road trips, injuries, rehabilitation, the grind of the season, and other obstacles that come with a long playing career, I recognize it’s time to move along and let a new leader take the helm to transition the organization into its next evolution.

Although I informed TIABC’s Board of Directors of my intention to step down several months ago, the recovery period following brain surgery in May was also a time for reflection and reaffirmed my decision to pursue other interests that include new places to visit, friends to (re) connect with, more family time to enjoy, organizations to serve, hobbies to continue or start, and new dreams to chase.

To be clear, I’m stepping away from my current role and full-time employment but I won’t be walking away from work entirely. Rather, I am leaving the door open for projects that align with my values and where I can be of assistance.

Yet, as much as I can try to carve out a new path, I know that unforeseen opportunities will come my way so I’m not nervous about what the future holds. My only wish is to remain healthy and continue to find meaning and purpose in whatever I decide to do.

My wonderful wife thinks I should return to the Richmond Country Club to wash members’ golf clubs and pick up range balls. Admittedly, part of me longs for the simple pleasure (schadenfreude) of watching nervous golfers attempt to hit a drive over the intimidating ditch on the first tee.

I am so fortunate to have enjoyed an amazing career, especially the 36+ years I spent in the tourism industry. Thankfully there have been far more highs than lows and many more successes than failures. Regardless, I’d rather leave on a positive note with Deb, Cassandra, Pria, Fiona, a new CEO, and TIABC’s Board of Directors (currently under the direction of JJ Belanger) ensuring that the organization remains in a solid position to do the work that’s necessary as the Voice of Tourism for British Columbia.

I’ve heard it said that wisdom is a function of time and experience. Having been gainfully employed for so long, I am wise enough to be grateful each day for all the friendships I’ve made in tourism here at home, across Canada and around the world, the mentors who taught me along the way, the employers that took a chance on me, the generosity and encouragement of my colleagues, the incredible experiences I’ve enjoyed as part of the tourism industry, and for my family that kept me grounded and focussed on doing the best that I could to serve others for close to five decades.

That said, don’t push me out the door just yet. I have plenty of work to do that will keep me tethered to my desk until TIABC’s board completes its search for my replacement. I will also be attending various industry conferences throughout the Fall so I look forward to connecting with you somewhere on the road.

See you soon.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC