Tourism Kamloops Board Announces Retirement of CEO, Beverley DeSantis, and Initiates its Process to Find the Organization’s New Leader
The Board of Directors thanks DeSantis for her passion and dedication, leaving the organization in its strongest position ever.
For Immediate Release
November 15, 2021, Kamloops, British Columbia – Tourism Kamloops CEO, Beverley DeSantis, has given the Board of Directors notice of her pending retirement effective January 1, 2022. DeSantis has offered to continue part time at the Board’s discretion for a period to be determined to assist through the transition period should her support be required.
The Board thanks DeSantis for the incredible job she has done since assuming the role of CEO in 2016. The Board continues to have great confidence in Tourism Kamloops as an organization as well as in the team of talented and dedicated staff who remain.
“Tourism Kamloops is stronger today than any time in the organization’s history,” said Board Chair, Percy Amaria. “The positive impact that Ms. DeSantis has had on Tourism Kamloops cannot be overstated – our visitor economy is strong, partnerships between Tourism Kamloops and its stakeholders are in great shape, the strategic plan for the next five years is in place, MRDT funding has been secured for renewal in 2022, and there is an amazing team of dedicated staff excited for the future.”
Ms. DeSantis’ tenure as Tourism Kamloops CEO has been busy and transformative. Thanks largely to her work, the city has become a well recognized and desired destination regionally and internationally. Under her leadership, a five-year strategic plan was created and executed in less than three years, the organization went through a significant rebrand, launched a new website, increased its social media and travel trade presence, implemented innovative technologies, built a passionate team of professionals, and garnered significant community support.
“I came to Kamloops in 2016 and knew essentially no one. I fell in love with the city and immediately knew I needed to spread the word and tell more people about this incredible destination,” said DeSantis. “I have accomplished what I set out to do and it feels like now is the right time to let someone new step into the position. My husband Carl recently retired for the third time, and I figured I’d better join him to make sure he succeeds for good this time. We are excited to travel and spend more time with family!”
Ms. DeSantis’ notice has triggered section 27.2 of Tourism Kamloops’ Board Policy for CEO Succession, which governs the organization’s robust CEO succession selection process. Tourism Kamloops’ Board will begin the process of finding a new CEO effective immediately and expects a new leader to be in place in early 2022.
A confidential email address has been set up by the Board of Directors to manage the CEO recruitment process. All inquiries should be directed to: board@tourismkamloops.com.
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Learn more about Tourism Kamloops: https://www.tourismkamloops.com/
Media Contact:
Christina Pilarski, Tourism Kamloops Board of Directors Media Liaison
CIPR Communications
P: 403-836-8249
E: christina@ciprcommunications.com
