Kathy Haley Makes History as MTCC’s First Female President & CEO
November 27, 2024
The Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC), which generated more than $500 million in economic impact for Toronto and the Province of Ontario during its 2023/24 fiscal year, appointed Kathy Haley as its new president and CEO, effective November 26. She takes over the position from MTCC Interim President & CEO Ron Pellerine, who held the position for the last year.
Haley, who most recently served as chief customer experience officer for the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey (PANYNJ), makes history as the first woman to hold this position at the MTCC, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2024. Since the venue opened in downtown Toronto in 1984, MTCC has hosted more than 22,000 events, adding more than $9.2 billion in direct spending economic impact to the community, according to an MTCC release.
Backstory
A seasoned leader with extensive global experience in strategic transformation, customer experience, and large-scale operations, Haley played a pivotal role in enhancing customer experience at the region’s major airports, including LaGuardia, John F. Kennedy International, and Newark Liberty International Airports.
Bringing a proven track record in managing multimillion-dollar infrastructure projects, Haley has been recognized as a leading customer experience expert, ranking among the top 2% of professionals worldwide in the field, according to MTCC officials.
Her leadership experience also includes serving as the inaugural president of the award-winning Union Pearson (UP) Express, North America’s first dedicated airport-rail system operated by Metrolinx in Toronto.
Why it matters
In her new role, Haley will focus on driving the MTCC’s vision for growth and enhancing its contributions to the local economy. She expressed enthusiasm about returning to Toronto to lead the Centre, emphasizing its importance to the city’s tourism and business landscape.
“I am thrilled to return to my home city of Toronto and lead the Metro Toronto Convention Centre into its next chapter,” Haley said. “MTCC is a key asset to Toronto’s tourism and business ecosystem, and I look forward to working with the exceptional team to enhance the Centre’s global reputation, optimize its brand value, and deliver world-class experiences for visitors and event organizers alike.”
Looking ahead
Haley’s appointment is a significant step forward for the MTCC as it works to strengthen its position as a premier business events destination, according to MTCC officials.
In fiscal year 2024/25, the MTCC will host 20 citywide conventions that are expected to attract more than 100,000 delegates from around the world. Some of the citywide conventions held in 2024 included:
- IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition 2024, August 11-15
- American Society for Bone & Mineral Research Annual Meeting 2024, September 27-30
- Principles in Responsible Investment – PRI in Person 2024, October 8-10
- AdvaMed- Advanced Medical Technology Association MedTech Conference, October 15-17
“Kathy Haley’s proven track record in transforming customer experiences, managing complex large-scale operations and stakeholder groups, and driving business growth makes her an ideal leader for the Metro Toronto Convention Centre,” said Justin Mooney, chair of the MTCC board of directors. “Her global experience, combined with her passion for elevating cities and regions, will be instrumental as we continue to position Toronto as a premier destination for meetings, conventions, and events.”
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Partner Voices
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