MMBC Welcomes 6 New Board Members

After more than a decade of dedicated leadership and invaluable contributions to the Executive Committee, Grant Snider is stepping back but will continue to share his insights as an Ex Officio board member.

A tireless and passionate volunteer, Grant has guided MMBC in numerous capacities, including serving as Chair and, most recently, as VP of Membership & Engagement, where he played a pivotal role in welcoming several new Member Supporters. His unwavering commitment, energy and vision have left a lasting impact on MMBC and the business events sector as a whole.

Susan Freeman, Executive Director, Meet PEI: A career tourism professional with a Bachelor of Tourism and Hospitality Management from Mount Saint Vincent University, Susan leads a team attracting business events and conferences to Prince Edward Island. A passionate advocate for tourism and sustainability, she integrates these values at Meet PEI, ensuring lasting benefits for the island and its community while promoting business events and conferences.

Ingrid Jarrett, Principal, IJ Management Consulting: With three decades in tourism, Ingrid has shaped the industry across BC and Canada. She is the first female President and CEO of the British Columbia Hotel Association, and has held leadership roles at Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, Boutique Hotels & Resorts and Watermark Beach Resort. She also serves as a volunteer on key tourism boards, including the Hotel Association of Canada and currently as Co-Chair of the Hotel Development and Infrastructure Task Force.

Andrew Weir, President and CEO of Destination Toronto: Andrew propels growth in Canada’s most-visited destination. Prior to his appointment as CEO in 2024, Andrew spent 18 years in leadership roles, including Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. He has chaired the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario and served on various Canadian and international boards, focusing on destination sales, marketing and the meetings industry.

Carly Grace, Vice President of Sales for the Rogers Centre Ottawa: Carly drives economic impact for Ottawa through major events and business opportunities. At Rogers Centre Ottawa, Carly leverages her strong hotel industry background, having held senior roles in sales and event management. Her expertise in destination management and convention visitor bureaus gives her a well-rounded perspective on the industry from multiple vantage points.

Alissa Hurley, Senior Vice President of Commercial Strategy and Marketing, Stagevision: Alissa leads business growth for one of Canada’s top audiovisual and event production companies. With 20+ years in the meetings and events sector, she has held senior roles at industry leaders like FMAV/Encore. Passionate about advancing the profession, she also served as Past President of MPI Toronto Chapter, contributing to the industry beyond her corporate leadership.

Claire Smith, Vice-President, Sales and Marketing, Vancouver Convention Centre: Claire heads strategic business development at the Vancouver Convention Centre, leading and directing its sales department, as well as positioning the facility in the global marketplace. Previously its Director of Sales & Client Services (1997–2005), she managed sales, marketing, and event services. As a former consultant, she advised convention venues, bureaus and associations on growth strategies. In 2018, she also served as Chair of PCMA, advancing the global meetings industry.