Doctor of Letters, honoris causa
Ken Cretney is a recognized leader in the hospitality and tourism industry, with nearly 40 years of award-winning experience. He joined the Vancouver Convention Centre as general manager in 2008, and in 2013 was named chief operating officer of B.C. Pavilion Corporation (PavCo). In 2014, he was appointed president and CEO of PavCo, where he continues to share his unwavering commitment to excellence in B.C.’s event and tourism sector.
Prior to his tenure at PavCo, Ken served as general manager of Vancouver’s Marriott Pinnacle Hotel. Under his leadership, the hotel received numerous awards, including being named one of British Columbia’s top employers for three consecutive years.
In an earlier role, he oversaw the successful conversion of the Delta Whistler Resort into the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa. Before moving to Whistler, Ken managed the Rimrock Resort Hotel in Banff, Alberta, establishing it as one of North America’s top properties.
Appreciating the importance of mentoring tomorrow’s industry leaders, Ken remains a dedicated advocate for hospitality education. He presently serves as board chair of the Vancouver Community College Foundation, and recently completed his term on the Program Advisory Committee for Hospitality. For over 20 years, Ken has been actively involved with the Selkirk College Hospitality Advisory Committee.
Ken is past chair of Destination Vancouver, having served on its board for over a decade. He has played a key leadership role in PavCo’s partnership with Vancouver Sport Hosting, bringing world-class sporting events to B.C., including the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup, Vancouver Rugby Sevens and the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025.
Through his leadership and commitment to hospitality, Ken continues to shape the future of tourism and events in British Columbia.