Budget Cuts, Lagging Events: What’s Next for Destination Canada as CEO Steps Down

After nearly six years leading Canada’s destination marketing organization, Marsha Walden is stepping down as CEO of Destination Canada.

Walden’s last day is June 30. Destination Canada, a crown corporation, is prepared to appoint Chief Financial Officer Meaghan Ferrigno — who has led the team’s data and research strategy, including work on an AI-powered tourism data platform — as interim CEO.  

The move had been expected. Walden’s five-year contract ended last August, but succession plans were delayed due to last year’s federal election. 

Now, her departure has been made official — right as the destination has stepped into the global spotlight as one of three hosts for this year’s World Cup. Canada expects to draw in more than 1 million visitors for the tournament. 

Walden was named Destination Canada CEO in August 2020, following stints as the head of Destination British Columbia and executive positions