Great Canadian announces senior-level changes, promotion

The leading Ontario-based company that currently operates 25 entertainment, gaming and hospitality venues in Canada, Great Canadian, announced senior-level appointments Thursday. The company revealed it promoted Ron Urquhart, who held the role of Vice President of Operations in the Greater Toronto Area to the position of Chief Operating Officer (COO). Additionally, Great Canadian said it selected Gavin Whiteley as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).

Whiteley has an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, but he also holds a Master's degree in Music from McGill University. Before joining Great Canadian, Whiteley was a part of the gaming and hospitality giant Caesars Entertainment.

Back then, he was based in Las Vegas, Nevada, and was in charge of the company's biggest loyalty program which involves online deals and more than 50 retail locations. During his tenure at Caesars, Whiteley held different leadership roles.

In a statement released on December 15, 2022, Whiteley shared his excitement saying: "I am thrilled to come home to Canada to lead the marketing and entertainment initiatives with the Great Canadian leadership team to deliver value to our team members, guests, and communities from coast to coast."

On the other hand, Urquhart has a rich history with Great Canadian. His career with the leading operator began more than two decades ago back in 2001. During his tenure, he held multiple senior-level roles overseeing Great Canadian's Nova Scotia operations.

In 2016, Urquhart was appointed as the company's General Manager for the Belleville site in Ontario. Moving up the ranks further, he was promoted to Vice President of Operations for Ontario and after that, he held an Executive Vice President of Operations role for GTA. Within this position, he was in charge of the operational processes related to the expansion of the company.

"I feel privileged to take on this new role at such an exciting time for Great Canadian, and I look forward to working closely with Matthew to continuously enhance the gaming and entertainment experience for our guests, and making a positive impact for all our stakeholders," said Urquhart.

Matthew Anfinson, Great Canadian's Chief Executive Officer (CEO), added that the company is excited to see Urquhart become its new COO. He explained that Urquhart initially started his career with the Great Canadian while he was back in college. However, Anfinson said that Urquhart made his way up through the ranks over the past 20 years while at the same time helping the company expand.

The CEO added: "Ron has a deep understanding of our business and will be an enormous asset in our next chapter of growth as we bring to market what will be among the premier casino resorts in North America in 2023." Last but not least, Anfinson said that it is exciting to see Whiteley take the role of CMO and acknowledged that he brings solid industry experience.

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