Two longstanding leaders in British Columbia’s tourism industry have announced upcoming transitions from their organizations.

Richard Porges will step down as President and CEO of Destination BC (DBC) on November 6, 2026, following a career of more than 25 years with Tourism BC, the provincial government, and DBC. Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), will retire on May 30, 2027, after more than 16 years with TOTA, and more than four decades in hospitality and tourism.

Through their respective roles with DBC and TOTA, Richard and Ellen have been longstanding partners to destination management organizations, tourism businesses, and communities across the province. Their leadership has helped advance important conversations and initiatives in numerous facets of the tourism industry. 
 

Richard Porges Steps Down as President and CEO of DBC
 

During his time with DBC, Richard has helped guide the organization through significant change while advancing work related to foundational areas like destination development, sustainability, DEIA, truth and reconciliation, and the long-term resilience of BC’s visitor economy.

For Tourism Kelowna and other destination organizations around the province, DBC is an important partner, connecting provincial strategy with the work happening in destinations. In his role leading the organization, Richard has been a valued partner and advocate for collaboration across BC's tourism industry, guiding new approaches to destination management and ensuring local and regional perspectives were always part of the conversation about the future of tourism in BC.  

Richard will continue to lead DBC through November 6. Read Destination BC’s announcement to learn more about Richard's tourism career thurs far and the leadership transition.

TOTA CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews Announces Retirement After Nearly Five Decades in Tourism
 

Ellen’s more than 16 years with TOTA have included leadership across marketing, travel trade and media, industry and destination development, and stewardship. As CEO since 2021, she has helped guide TOTA’s continued evolution toward destination management, with a focus on sustainability, resilience, and supporting tourism businesses and communities throughout the Thompson Okanagan.

As our regional destination management organization, TOTA plays an important role in connecting destinations across the region, sharing knowledge and resources, and strengthening the collective tourism industry. During her tenure as CEO, Ellen’s collaborative approach and deep understanding of the region have been an important part of that relationship, helping foster stronger connections among destination organizations, tourism businesses, and communities, while navigating opportunities and challenges facing the region alongside TOTA's numerous partners, including Tourism Kelowna. 

Ellen will continue to lead TOTA through May 30, 2027. Read TOTA’s announcement to learn more about Ellen’s career and legacy.

Tourism Kelowna extends its sincere appreciation to Richard and Ellen for their longstanding leadership, partnership, and contributions to tourism in British Columbia. We wish them both all the best as they prepare for their next chapters!