Ottawa Tourism Boosts Business Events with New Hires

Ottawa Tourism has strengthened its Business Events division by hiring Angela Jefferies and Orest Gawdyda as Managers, aiming to enhance the city’s meetings and conventions sector. They will focus on international growth and key Canadian markets, driving economic benefits through increased visitor spending and partnerships in a competitive landscape.

Newsdesk R. Michael January 30, 2026 2 min read

Angela Jefferies and Orest Gawdyda hired to grow international and Canadian meetings markets

OTTAWA, Canada — Ottawa Tourism has expanded its Business Events division with two strategic hires aimed at strengthening the city’s meetings and conventions sector. The organization appointed Angela Jefferies and Orest Gawdyda as Managers, Business Events.

Tourism leaders say the appointments will help Ottawa compete more aggressively for conferences, conventions and association meetings. The goal is to grow visitor spending and increase the city’s share of the global meetings market.

A smiling man with a beard wearing a brightly colored plaid suit and orange sunglasses against a white background. — ***Orest Gawdyda***

Focus on international growth

Jefferies brings nine years of experience in Canadian and international association markets. She previously worked in hotel sales and most recently held a role with Destination Toronto. In Ottawa, she will lead international sales and focus on attracting global meetings to the capital region. Her role also includes strengthening relationships with international planners and decision-makers.

Officials say international events often bring higher economic impact because they generate longer stays and greater visitor spending.

A smiling woman with short, blonde hair wearing a black blazer over a white shirt against a plain white background. — ***Angela Jefferies***

Targeting key Canadian segments

Gawdyda joins Ottawa Tourism with several years of hospitality experience, including recent work with the Regina Hotel Association. His background includes hotel sales and design. In his new role, he will manage and grow accounts in Indigenous, government and union, provincial association and sports organization segments.

These sectors align closely with Ottawa’s strengths as a government and national sports hub.

Driving measurable results

“These appointments strengthen our ability to compete and win in a demanding global marketplace while also growing high-impact Canadian business,” said Stephanie Sequin, Vice President of Business and Major Events at Ottawa Tourism.

She added that both positions focus on partnerships, measurable outcomes and sustained growth for the destination.

Business events as an economic engine

Ottawa Tourism continues to invest in business events because they drive economic benefits. Meetings and conventions support hotels, restaurants and local attractions. They also highlight Ottawa’s expertise in sectors such as government, technology and research.

As Canada’s capital, Ottawa offers cultural institutions, museums and outdoor experiences along the Ottawa River. The city also features modern venues that can host events of many sizes.

Ottawa Tourism is a not-for-profit organization representing more than 450 member businesses. It promotes the region for tourism, meetings and conferences while providing support services to planners.

Industry competition for events remains strong across North America. However, tourism officials say strategic hiring helps Ottawa stay competitive and visible in key markets.