TORONTO — The Travel Industry Council of Ontario’s Board of Directors has named Richard Smart to the position of CEO and Registrar, Travel Industry Act 2002.

Richard Smart

Smart will join TICO on Dec. 1, as designate CEO for a one-month period, during which time he will receive comprehensive internal orientation.

He will assume full responsibilities for the position on Jan. 1, 2015.

Outgoing CEO, Michael Pepper, is retiring, having been at the helm of TICO for more than 17 years, since its inception in June 1997. Pepper will be staying on as an advisor until Jan. 31, 2015.

Smart is a Chartered Professional Accountant by profession and most recently served as CFO at the Technical Standards and Safety Authority. Prior to this, he has had extensive experience in the travel and transportation sectors serving as CFO at both AMJ Campbell Inc. and Air Canada Vacations.

He brings over 30 years of experience and expertise in finance, planning, risk management and governance to the role.

“We are confident that Richard Smart will lead TICO to achieve further success in both protecting consumers and maintaining a healthy travel industry,” said Michael Janigan, Chair, TICO Board of Directors.