Rogers Centre Ottawa Announces Lesley Pincombe as President & Chief Executive Officer

The Rogers Centre Ottawa and its Board of Directors are pleased to announce that, following the completion of an extensive recruitment process, Lesley Pincombe has been appointed as its new President and CEO. Ms Pincombe brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in the business events industry.

 

Ms Pincombe joins the Rogers Centre Ottawa after most recently serving as the Vice President of Sales, Business, and Major Events at Ottawa Tourism. During her tenure, she demonstrated exceptional leadership, with her strategic vision and execution playing a pivotal role in establishing Ottawa as a premier destination for business events and sport hosting. Her efforts significantly enhanced the city’s global reputation and contributed meaningfully to its economic development. She notably played a key role in bringing the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championships to Ottawa, generating over $54 million in economic impact for the Province of Ontario.

 

“I am incredibly proud to succeed Nina Kressler and build upon the legacy and stewardship she has left at the Rogers Centre Ottawa. Leading this extraordinary team forward is an honour, and I am committed to continuing our work alongside our industry partners to attract business events to Ottawa and grow the visitor economy,” said Lesley Pincombe, incoming President and CEO, Rogers Centre Ottawa.

 

In her new role, Ms Pincombe will focus on strengthening relationships with the community, hoteliers, government officials, and industry stakeholders. She will lead the Rogers Centre Ottawa team to uphold service excellence, foster innovation, and maintain the centre’s award-winning reputation. Under her leadership, the centre will continue to be a major contributor to the local economy, generating growth through events that deliver long-term value and legacy for the City of Ottawa and the Province of Ontario.

 

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am thrilled to welcome Lesley Pincombe as the new President and CEO of the Rogers Centre Ottawa,” said Jim Armour, Chair of the Board, Rogers Centre Ottawa. “Lesley brings a wealth of experience, a deep understanding of our industry, and a bold vision for the future. Her leadership will be instrumental as we continue to elevate the centre’s role as a premier destination for events and a cornerstone of our community.”

 

Ms Pincombe is a graduate of the Algonquin College Hospitality Programme and is a certified Convention and Event Planner. She has been recognised as a Forty Under 40 award recipient, has served as Chair and Past Chair of the Destination Canada Business Events Advisory Committee, and is an Honourary Ambassador of the Bruyère Health Foundation Board. Most recently, she was honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her outstanding contributions to Canada.

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