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Regina Exhibition Association Limited (REAL) says its months-long search for a new leader is over, with a new president and CEO set to arrive next week.
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Rick Bennett will be taking over as the organization’s new permanent president and CEO as of June 16, according to a news release issued by the REAL on Monday.
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“I’m honoured to join REAL at such a pivotal moment,” stated Bennett in the release. “There’s strong momentum already underway, and I’m excited to help accelerate that progress and shape a future our team and community can be proud of.”
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Interim CEO Trent Fraser will remain on board for a time to transition Bennett into the role. Fraser stepped in as CEO in April, after previous interim CEO Roberta Engel resigned. She spent a year in the position, after former CEO Tim Reid was removed in January 2024.
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Bennett has two decades of experience in hospitality, sports, tourism and venue operations, including in the operation of “destination venues, multi-use districts, and civic venues across three continents,” according to REAL.
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His LinkedIn profile lists his most recent role as an interim executive leader at Bennett Advisory and Consulting in Calgary, Alta., previously at hospitality operators Compass Group and Aramark, and at modular building provider Williams Scotsman.
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His profile also notes he played a role in the ground-up development of Sarnia, Ontario’s sports arena as part of Recreation Services International Ltd., described as a pioneer in public-private partnerships, or P3’s, in the municipal recreation sector.
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In this new role with REAL, Bennett’s focus will be on financial stabilization, mending stakeholder trust and long-term planning, notes the release.
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“Rick brings a powerful combination of global experience and people-first leadership,” said REAL board chair Jaime Boldt in the release.
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“REAL is more than a venue operator; it’s a driver of Regina’s economic and cultural life. Rick’s appointment signals a renewed commitment to delivering value for residents, partners, and the broader community.”
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