Tourism Calgary has named a new CEO after an international search

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Tourism Calgary has named one of the industry's “rising stars” as its new CEO after a months-long search.

Alisha Reynolds will begin her role as the organization's chief executive on June 3. He succeeds Cindy Adi, who announced her retirement last November after ten years of service.

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“We are excited to have one of the industry's rising stars join Tourism Calgary as our new CEO,” said Mark Wilson, Tourism Calgary Board Chair. “In addition to an impressive resume, Alisha brings with her an infectious spirit that has earned the unanimous support of the board. With a wealth of travel business and leadership experience, an appetite for innovation and a strong vision, Alisha is poised to lead us into a new era of growth and opportunity.”

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When Adi announced his retirement, it sparked an international search for his successor. Tourism Calgary said the opportunity has attracted interest from across North America and beyond in recent months, but Reynolds stood out because of his “unique experience, natural talent and blue-sky thinking.”

Reynolds will work with Adi until June when he transitions into the role.

“I am honored and humbled to lead Calgary's vibrant tourism industry during a monumental period of growth and opportunity,” said Reynolds. “Calgary has endless opportunities — our world-class events, venues and attractions create unforgettable experiences for visitors. Tourism is not just an economic engine; it's a lifeline for countless businesses and a source of pride for every Calgarian. I am ready to lend my vision and energy to this dynamic landscape.”

One of the biggest challenges facing the new CEO is a 10-year tourism strategy for Calgary's visitor economy that will be unveiled under his leadership. This work will be reinforced as projects such as the new arena and entertainment district and the redevelopment of the Arts Commons are implemented.

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The organization hopes to help Alberta's goal of reaching $25 billion in annual visitor cash by 2035 — up from just $11 billion in 2022. Under Adi's watch, Calgary's tourism sector grew from $1.6 billion to $3.1 billion in local budgets. economy.

Reynolds has a long history in the hospitality industry, having spent the past seven years in leadership roles at Northland Properties, which owns several hotel and restaurant chains.

He was vice president of Sandman Hotel Group, responsible for 23 Western Canadian hotels and more than 1,000 teams, and most recently led the real estate and development team for brands such as Moxies, Denny's, Chop Steak House and Shark Club. He has also worked as a corporate lawyer at two international law firms in Calgary and held leadership roles in service industries.

He holds a Bachelor of Commerce and Law degree from the University of Saskatchewan, a Certificate in Hotel Real Estate and Asset Management from Cornell University and a Master of Business Administration from Queen's University.

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