Tourism Vancouver Island announces President & CEO retirement

May 29, 2017:  It is with mixed emotions of joy and sorrow that Tourism Vancouver Island’s Board of Directors announces the upcoming retirement of longstanding CEO, Dave Petryk, effective December 1, 2017. After 17 years of leading BC’s oldest and original regional destination marketing organization, Dave has decided that it is time to enjoy retirement with his fabulous wife, Sandra, as they plan their move to Thailand. This announcement comes approximately six months prior to Dave’s official retirement, so business will continue to operate as usual during the recruitment period.

Dave has been the chief executive officer since December 2000 and, under his leadership, Tourism Vancouver Island has become a leader in innovation with strategies such as: developing and executing an award-winning stakeholder business model; developing and promoting its award-winning Powering Economic Alignment and Growth through Tourism project; leading the organization to achieve destination marketing accreditation through Destination Marketing Association International; spearheading and leading a regional hiking trails strategy, and much more. This account of activities demonstrate Dave’s forward thinking and commitment to excellence and the dedication and collaboration of his team. Tourism Vancouver Island’s Board and staff recognize the years of hard work that Dave has done for the organization and for his ability to consistently produce great results in the many projects that he has been involved with over the years.

The Board of Directors also recognizes Dave’s ability to build bridges and work collaboratively to progress the tourism industry through activities such as managing the destination marketing and development for both Vancouver Island North Tourism and Tourism Nanaimo while working with all other community destination marketing organizations on the Island. While sad to see Dave depart, the Board of Directors is fully prepared and ready to move the organization forward and the recruitment process has already begun. The Board is very grateful for the substantial notice that Dave has provided which allows time to find an ideal candidate that fits well with the amazing team, professional organization, and strong culture at Tourism Vancouver Island.

On behalf of our board and team at Tourism Vancouver Island, I wish to congratulate Dave on his decision and to thank him for his outstanding leadership and accomplishments in making Tourism Vancouver Island a recognized leader in Destination Management. We look forward to continuing the excellence in delivery for our tourism stakeholders as we recruit a new CEO in the upcoming months.

Ian MacPhee,
Chair