“An excellent choice”: ACTA appoints Suzanne Acton-Gervais as new president

After a comprehensive recruitment process, the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies and Travel Advisors (ACTA) has announced the appointment of Suzanne Acton-Gervais as its new president, effective July 10, 2025.

She will be succeeding Wendy Paradis, who, earlier this year, shared her plans to retire after nine years at the helm of the national travel agency association.

Acton-Gervais most recently served as vice president, stakeholder relations and regulatory affairs at the National Airlines Council of Canada (NACC).

Previously, she held roles at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the Airports Council International (ACI World), Transport Canada and Air Canada.

She has extensive experience in advocacy with federal and foreign governments and now looks forward to continued engagement with the federal government as well as with provincial governments from coast to coast to coast, reads a press release.

During the pandemic, Acton-Gervais stepped in as interim president of the NACC, leading Canada’s airline sector through an unprecedented period and helping to guide the reopening of aviation.

She also collaborated with Paradis as part of the Canadian Travel and Tourism Roundtable, a national advocacy initiative focused on recovery across the broader travel and tourism industry.

A high calibre hire

“We are thrilled to have found a person of this calibre to fill the ACTA president’s role,” said Monica Johnstone, chair of ACTA’s Board of Directors, in a statement. “Suzanne’s lengthy experience in the travel and tourism sector, as well as her extensive advocacy experience and leadership skills will serve ACTA members well as the industry continues its recovery and looks to the future.”

Fully bilingual and a passionate advocate for learning, Acton-Gervais also holds a Bachelor of Education with a specialization in Adult Education, aligning with ACTA’s commitment to education and professional development within the travel sector.

“I am honoured and excited to take on the role as president of ACTA,” said Acton-Gervais in a statement. “This opportunity to represent and serve the members of ACTA aligns with both my professional experience and my deep commitment to Canada’s travel and tourism sector. ACTA plays a vital role in supporting travel agencies and advisors across the country, and I’m inspired by the opportunity to help guide the association into its next chapter and leading ACTA forward with the continued support of its dedicated and professional team.”

Outgoing president Wendy Paradis expressed her full support for the appointment and looks forward to working with Acton-Gervais to ensure a smooth transition.

“We worked alongside each other advocating for Canada’s travel and tourism industry during the pandemic. She is an excellent choice for ACTA,” stated Paradis.

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