Former WestJet executive Andrew Gibbons named Chair of TICO Board

The Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) has announced the appointment of Andrew Gibbons as the incoming Chair of its Board of Directors.

The appointment, announced Monday (Feb. 23), was made by the Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement.

Gibbons will officially assume the role on February 25, 2026, succeeding Michael Levinson, whose term concludes following nearly five years of dedicated leadership and service to TICO’s Board.

“We’re pleased to welcome Andrew as our incoming Chair at an important time for TICO and for the travel industry,” said Richard Smart, TICO’s CEO, in a press release.

“As a former airline executive, Andrew brings deep experience in regulatory affairs, government relations, and industry leadership. His insight will be invaluable as TICO’s Board continues its work to strengthen travel consumer protection while fostering a strong and competitive travel marketplace in Ontario. I am also deeply grateful to Michael, our outgoing Chair, for his steady leadership, commitment, and many contributions to TICO’s mandate over the past five years.”

Gibbons, WestJet’s former vice-president of external affairs, brings extensive experience in the travel and aviation sectors.

He previously served as Board Chair of the National Airlines Council of Canada and has held a Board position with the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, where he contributed to sector-wide policy development and regulatory modernization.

“I’m honoured to take on the role of Board Chair and look forward to supporting the team at TICO, while working closely with the entire Board to advance the organization’s consumer protection mandate,” said Gibbons in a statement. “I want to thank Minister Crawford for his confidence in this appointment, and I’m committed to making a positive contribution to Ontario’s travel marketplace.” 

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