Tourism executive from Kelowna named B.C. Business Woman of the Year

Kelowna native and first female president & CEO of the B.C. Hotel Association, Ingrid Jarrett, has been named Business Woman of the Year.

Jarrett received the honour from the Tourism Industry Association of BC at its conference in Victoria earlier this month.

“Ingrid is an industry powerhouse who has spent the past three decades directly contributing to the tourism sector across B.C. and Canada,⁠ indisputably making a positive impact through her leadership, ingenuity, and drive,” says a media release from the BCHA.

READ MORE: All Systems Go! BC tourism industry launches 2023 season from Prince George

The award recognizes the accomplishments, expertise and leadership of women in the tourism sector.

“I am so grateful for our industry, and honoured to be recognized in such a meaningful way,” Jarrett said. “None of my achievements would be possible without our amazing team at BCHA and our incredible board of directors.”

The full list of winners from the BC Tourism Industry Conference are:

• Business Woman of the Year Award – Sponsored by Prince of Whales: Ingrid Jarrett, BCHA
• Community Contribution & Impact – Sponsored by Tourism Richmond: Prince of Whales Whale Watching
• DMO Professional Excellence – Sponsored by BC Regional Tourism Secretariat: Tourism Richmond
• Employees First – Sponsored by go2HR: GolfBC Group
• Inclusive and Accessible Tourism Experience – Sponsored by Destination BC: Vancouver Aquarium
• Indigenous Operator or Experience – Sponsored by Indigenous Tourism BC and Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada: Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours
• Innovation – Sponsored by Tourism Innovation Lab: Tourism New Westminster
• Remarkable Experience – Sponsored by BC Destination Management Organization Association: Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort
• Sector Association Excellence Award – Sponsored by Acera Insurance: Sport Fishing Institute of BC
• Sustainability Excellence – Sponsored by Nanaimo Airport: 40 Knots Vineyard & Estate Winery Inc.

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