CELEBRATING CERI’S 10-YEAR MILESTONE

As Tourism Richmond celebrates 30 years, we’re excited to also celebrate Ceri’s 10-year milestone and the impact of her leadership on Richmond’s tourism community. Here are a few highlights from Ceri.

FAVOURITE MOMENTS OVER THE PAST 10 YEARS

Over the past 10 years, I’ve especially enjoyed working on projects that made a tangible difference in our community. It’s been incredibly fulfilling to support the success of our tourism partners—whether that’s local businesses or not-for-profits, and to see ideas move from conversation to real outcomes. 

When I think back, two standout moments were in 2017 working on the Richmond Food Tourism Strategy, listening to partners share their vision for food tourism in Richmond, and a couple of years later, developing the Steveston Tourism Plan, where that same spirit of collaboration helped shape a shared view of Steveston’s future. From those plans, we’ve been able to build initiatives that directly support partners, including Winter in the Village, the Steveston Spot Prawn & Seafood Celebration, Fisher’s Walk and the ongoing evolution of the Dumpling Trail. 

During the pandemic, I was also proud of how quickly we adapted to support our partners, through patio improvement grants and the creation of pop-up picnic areas across the city, resources that continue to benefit the community today. 

WHAT MAKES RICHMOND’S TOURISM COMMUNITY SPECIAL

What stands out most is how connected and collaborative the community is. Partners are deeply invested in this place and generous with their ideas, and there’s a real willingness to work together, across neighborhoods, cultures, and sectors, to create visitor experiences that also strengthen community pride.

I also feel fortunate to have worked alongside the team at Tourism Richmond over the years. Everyone has shared a genuine passion for Richmond, and that shared commitment is a big part of what helps Tourism Richmond thrive.

HOW TOURISM RICHMOND HAS EVOLVED

A lot has changed since my first year at Tourism Richmond, starting with my role. I began as a Marketing Campaign Planner, and today I’m the Vice President of Destination & Community.

While we’ve always worked intentionally and strategically, what feels most different now is how the role of a DMO has evolved, from being primarily sales and marketing focused to also leading destination development. I’ve been proud to help lead that shift and to evolve Tourism Richmond into a true Destination Management Organization, working with partners to build experiences, strengthen resilience, and ensure tourism growth aligns with what residents’ value about Richmond.

LOOKING AHEAD

I’m excited about Richmond’s continued growth as a destination in a way that is authentic, sustainable, and partner-led. I’m also looking forward to rolling out the 10-year Tourism Master Plan and bringing that vision to life with our partners.

There is strong potential to further elevate Richmond’s food story, waterfront and Steveston experiences, and culturally rich neighbourhoods, while also expanding shoulder-season and winter programming to support local businesses year-round.

Thank you, Ceri, for your leadership over the past 10 years!

We look forward to what’s ahead.