Full Name
Paul Hawes
Job Title
President & CEO
Company/ Property
British Columbia Hotel Association
Speaker Bio
Paul’s journey in the industry began in the UK, where he studied tourism and hospitality. In 1995, he moved to Canada and joined Banff Caribou Properties, marking the start of a distinguished career. He has since held leadership roles with Resorts of the Canadian Rockies, Travel Alberta, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, the Canadian Tourism Commission (Destination Canada), and Destination Greater Victoria. During a period back in the UK, Paul also played a pivotal role in establishing overseas offices in the UK, Germany, and France for Destination New South Wales (NSW), Australia.
Prior to joining the BC Hotel Association, Paul served as vice president, destination development and marketing at Explore Edmonton Corporation, leading the entire visitor economy function. In that role, he was responsible for building strong industry relations — including with the region’s hotel sector — and oversaw global marketing, media relations, sales and business development, event attraction, and destination stewardship, including the evolution of the region’s tourism master plan.
A passionate advocate for sustainability, Paul has championed regenerative tourism initiatives throughout his career. Now, well established as President & CEO of the BC Hotel Association, he continues to build on a strong foundation, working closely with members, partners, and stakeholders to advance the province’s accommodation sector.
Prior to joining the BC Hotel Association, Paul served as vice president, destination development and marketing at Explore Edmonton Corporation, leading the entire visitor economy function. In that role, he was responsible for building strong industry relations — including with the region’s hotel sector — and oversaw global marketing, media relations, sales and business development, event attraction, and destination stewardship, including the evolution of the region’s tourism master plan.
A passionate advocate for sustainability, Paul has championed regenerative tourism initiatives throughout his career. Now, well established as President & CEO of the BC Hotel Association, he continues to build on a strong foundation, working closely with members, partners, and stakeholders to advance the province’s accommodation sector.
