The Team

Bonnie has been with the RTO 9 since the inception of the Regional Tourism Organization in 2011. Bonnie was appointed to Executive Director in 2017 after 6 years as Operations Manager for RTO 9. With a background in finance and a passion for the tourism industry, Bonnie is a true leader.  In 2020 Bonnie completed her MBA in Community Economic Development.  Prior to her career with RTO 9, Bonnie was Executive Director for the 1000 Islands Gananoque Chamber of Commerce where she was instrumental in growing membership and launching the official Bi-lingual Visitor Guide for her destination.

Lesley is a dedicated professional with over 20 years of experience in the tourism and travel sector. Her journey has taken her to work in various roles in renowned destinations such as Banff, Alberta, several European locations, and Bermuda. For over six years, Lesley served as a travel advisor, contributing to the success of a family-owned agency and a national brand. During this time, she played a key role in developing social media efforts and integrated marketing campaigns. Lesley holds two UK hospitality diplomas (operations and management) and a certificate with honours from Sault College of Applied Art & Technology  – Marketing Specialist Program (2022).

Meg brings a deep passion for tourism and community development to her role as Operations Manager. After earning her Bachelor of Commerce from Carleton University’s Sprott School of Business, she returned to the region and began her tourism journey with Kouri’s Kopters Inc. - an experience that sparked her passion for local businesses and the visitor economy. Her career continued to grow as she moved into leadership at 1000 Islands Tourism, where she championed partnerships and promoted the beauty of the Thousand Islands.

At RTO 9, Meg supports the organization’s Partnership Fund Program and oversees a range of administrative initiatives, including board coordination, workshops, webinars, and product development projects. Dedicated to strengthening the visitor economy and the businesses within it, she brings a collaborative approach to every project. 

With over 30 years of experience in marketing regions, cities and sites in Eastern Ontario, Steve brings a personal connection and knowledge of local history and culture to his position here at RTO 9. The achievement of which Steve is most proud was being part of the Rideau Canal’s inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Steve, along with the Rideau Canal Nomination Team, received a Parks Canada CEO award in recognition as well as on June 30th, 2007, Steve was a delegate for Canada and attended the UNESCO World Heritage Meeting in Christchurch, New Zealand when the Rideau Canal was inscribed on the World Heritage List.