Australia–Canada News

ASAE Executive Leadership Forum 2026: Highlights from Ottawa

The ASAE Executive Leadership Forum 2026 will occur in Ottawa from June 28 to 30, attracting 100-150 association leaders, primarily from the U.S. The theme is "Leading with Audacity," promoting bold leadership strategies. Hosted at The Westin Ottawa, the forum fosters interactive learning alongside citywide receptions, enhancing executive engagement and collaboration.

Newsdesk R. Michael December 8, 2025 3 min read

Rogers Centre Ottawa Rideau Canal dusk

ASAE Executive Leadership Forum 2026 Ottawa confirmed

ASAE has confirmed that ASAE Executive Leadership Forum 2026 Ottawa will take place in Canada’s capital from June 28 to 30, 2026. The programme will be hosted by Ottawa Tourism in partnership with ASAE and Destination Canada. The event will be staged at The Westin Ottawa in the heart of the city’s walkable downtown. As a result, delegates will be based within close reach of national institutions, waterfront spaces and key cultural venues.

Fireworks light up the night sky over the Ottawa River, with the Parliament buildings in the background and boats on the water reflecting the colorful display.

Executive audience announced

The 2026 programme will welcome approximately 100 to 150 association CEOs and senior executives. Most delegates will travel from the United States. However, select Canadian leaders will also take part. As in previous years, the forum will maintain its invitation-led format. Therefore, all sessions will be shaped by senior decision makers at the highest level.

Three professionals walking together on a scenic path in Ottawa, surrounded by autumn foliage and historic buildings in the background. — Next to the Rideau Canal and Senate Building with Rogers Centre Ottawa in the background.

“Leading with Audacity” theme

The 2026 theme is set as “Leading with Audacity”. Under this theme, the programme will encourage bold approaches to leadership, governance and strategy. In addition, the forum will focus on long-term organisational resilience. As a result, participants will be guided through forward-looking conversations that challenge traditional leadership models.

High-level learning environment

The Executive Leadership Forum is designed as an intensive leadership environment. Delegates will take part in guided peer learning and facilitated dialogue. At the same time, structured leadership conversations will support practical application. Because of this format, theory and action are closely linked.

Downtown host venue

The Westin Ottawa will host the core programme. The property sits within the city’s central business district. Therefore, delegates will benefit from easy access to dining, retail and government precincts. In addition, the venue offers full business event facilities for private executive-level sessions.

City-supported programme

The experience will also extend beyond the main meeting space. City-hosted receptions will form part of the official schedule. Key partner venues will include Rogers Centre Ottawa and Fairmont Château Laurier. As a result, participants will engage with the city across multiple landmark venues.

ASAE leadership response

ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE, said the organisation is pleased to bring the forum to Ottawa. She said the Canadian capital reflects the forward-thinking mindset of the association sector. In addition, she confirmed the 2026 programme will immerse executive leaders in a highly interactive format. Therefore, the forum will support practical learning for complex leadership challenges.

Ottawa Tourism view

Stephanie Seguin, Vice President, Sales, Business and Major Events at Ottawa Tourism, said Ottawa is a natural fit for the forum. She noted that association leaders shape policy, innovation and professional communities across North America. Because of this, she said Ottawa offers direct value as a G7 capital. In addition, she highlighted the city’s compact downtown and strong cluster of national associations.

Destination Canada support

Virginie De Visscher, Executive Director, Business Events at Destination Canada, said Ottawa reflects Canada’s wider strengths as a knowledge-driven destination. She pointed to deep sector expertise and strong collaborative networks. As a result, she said positioning ASAE Executive Leadership Forum 2026 Ottawa in the city allows global association leaders to connect with Canada’s talent and innovation ecosystem.

Why Ottawa was selected

Ottawa was selected through ASAE’s formal partnership with Destination Canada. The collaboration highlights Canada’s network of knowledge-rich cities. In particular, Ottawa offers access to national government, research institutions and association leadership. Therefore, the city appeals strongly to cross-border organisations seeking stable and connected host locations.

Capital city advantage

Ottawa combines the role of national capital with a compact and accessible footprint. As a result, leaders can move easily between sessions, receptions and venues. At the same time, the city delivers a safe and inclusive environment. This balance continues to strengthen its appeal for executive-level events.

Canadian series continues

The Ottawa edition continues a successful recent Canadian series for the Executive Leadership Forum. The 2025 programme will be held in Montréal. Therefore, the 2026 forum further strengthens cross-border engagement between ASAE and Canadian destinations. It also deepens the long-term partnership with Destination Canada.

Programme access timeline

Registration and full program details for the 2026 Executive Leadership Forum will be released in due course. At present, early planning is underway between the host partners. As a result, further announcements will follow as program development continues.