Ottawa Tourism strengthens Business Events team with two strategic appointments

Angela Jefferies to lead international sales, Orest Gawdyda to grow key Canadian and national segments

Ottawa Tourism is expanding its Business Events team with the appointment of Angela Jefferies and Orest Gawdyda, both as Managers, Business Events. Their respective efforts will deepen Ottawa’s reach in priority markets, strengthen partner relationships, and accelerate growth in the city’s meetings and convention economy.

Angela joins Ottawa Tourism with nine years of experience supporting the Canadian and international association market, including a background in hotel sales and a recent role with Destination Toronto. In Ottawa, she will lead international Business Events sales, focusing on growing global meetings in the Ottawa and National Capital Region, whilst strengthening Ottawa’s position in the international meetings landscape.

Orest Gawdyda joins with several years of hospitality industry experience, most recently with the Regina Hotel Association, alongside a background in hotel sales and design. In his new role, Orest will focus on Business Events account management and growth across the following segments: Indigenous, government and union, provincial association, and national and provincial sports organizations.

Building a stronger pipeline for Ottawa’s business events economy

“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, Business & Major Events at Ottawa Tourism. “Angela will advance our international sales strategy and deepen our connections with global association decision-makers. Orest will build momentum across key national segments that align with Ottawa’s strengths and priorities. Both roles are focused on driving measurable outcomes, stronger partnerships, and sustained growth for Ottawa.”

Ottawa Tourism continues to invest in its business events strategy to secure meetings that generate economic benefits, support local knowledge sectors, and showcase the destination’s venues, expertise, and welcoming experiences.