Executive Director's Message - March 2026
As we move through 2026, I’m pleased to share several important milestones for CITAP+, including the launch of our newly refreshed website.
Since stepping into the role of Executive Director in July 2025, it has been an honour to serve this engaged and collaborative community. I extend my sincere thanks to my predecessor, Joe Volk, for his leadership and wish him all the best in his retirement.
In recent months, we’ve seen strong momentum across our initiatives. Our Winter Function was a resounding success, with sold-out exhibitor booths and strong participation from receptive tour operators. We were also pleased to relaunch our FAM program, with recent programs in Saskatoon, Vancouver/Whistler/North Vancouver, and Southern Vancouver Island. In support of this growing activity, we have welcomed a new Operations & Communications Generalist to the team.
We are especially excited to introduce our new website. Now better integrated with our Glue Up member platform, it is designed to support more effective communication and engagement with our members, while also helping us better reach and connect with prospective members. We welcome your feedback as we continue to refine and enhance our digital presence.
At the core of our work are three key priorities. First, we are committed to supporting strong business relationships between our receptive tour operator members and the partners who enable their success. Second, we invest in member education through FAM tours and other opportunities that deepen product knowledge and strengthen market readiness. Third, we advocate on behalf of our members and the Receptive Tour Operator trade model—working to ensure its value is understood and reflected in the policies and decisions that shape our sector.
How we approach this work is just as important. We believe in working closely with our members, staying responsive to a changing environment, and keeping a clear focus on what matters most. Above all, we are guided by a shared commitment to the people and businesses that make up our community, with the goal of helping our members extend their reach and grow their impact.
Looking ahead, we’re excited about a strong lineup of upcoming events:
- July 15, 2026 – Hidi Nishi Summer Event
- August 18, 2026 – OMCA x CITAP+ Golf Tournament & Education Session
- December 1, 2026 – CITAP+ Winter Function
We welcome collaboration and invite partners interested in working with us on future initiatives—including FAMs, seminars, and other events that deliver value to our community.
Looking ahead, our priority is clear: to deliver meaningful value to our members and to help position them for continued success in a changing landscape. Grounded in passion, shaped by thoughtful planning, and carried through in practice, I am grateful for your continued engagement and support and look forward to building on this momentum together.
Warm regards,
Andy Shimizu
Executive Director, CITAP+