Schedule.jpg

Living our Brand Promise:
Strategies for Actionable Excellence

Together, we will delve deep into tangible steps and strategies that will bring our brand promise to life, ensuring that every interaction, every experience, resonates with the essence of who we are. Get ready for an inspiring and informative conference that will empower us to not only uphold our promise but to live it with unparalleled excellence; Living the Brand Promise: Strategies for Actionable Excellence.

Read on for our dynamic lineup of engaging sessions, insightful panels, collaborative workshops, and exclusive networking opportunities as we’ll discuss thought leadership and demonstrate solutions for making Coast Hotels a stronger brand moving forward

Monday, April 22

Arrival Day

Welcome to Nisku! Situated just moments away from the Edmonton International Airport, our Ambassadors at Coast Nisku Inn & Conference Centre are thrilled to welcome you. Join us in the lobby to complete your registration, gather essential conference information, and receive your special gift!

 

  • Stop by our registration table to complete your registration, and collect your conference badge, schedule, and gift.

    • Atrium, 1st floor - Coast Nisku Inn & Conference Centre

  • Get checked in and settled, then come and join us in the Beaumont Room at Coast Nisku Inn & Conference Centre. Enjoy the casual ambiance as you reconnect with fellow Ambassadors, enjoy a bite to eat, and sip on some casual cocktails, wine, or Molson Coors Beer products.

    • The Beaumont Room

Tuesday, April 23

Conference Sessions, Day 1

  • Start your day right with a delicious breakfast, and settle into the Nisku Ballroom for the first day of engaging conference sessions.

    • Nisku Ballroom – Coast Nisku Inn & Conference Centre

  • Brigitte Diem-Guy, Vice President, Revenue Strategies & Communication

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Mr. Isshi Motoya, CEO APA Group

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Jin Sasaki, President & CEO, Coast Hotels

    After a warm welcome and indication of what everyone can expect to take away from the Coast Hotels Annual Brand Conference, Jin Sasaki will present a comprehensive business update. In addition to highlighting essential updates, Jin will delve into key projects and initiatives slated for the upcoming fiscal year of 2024.

    • The Nisku Ballroom

  • Steve Whittington, President, Roadmap Agency

    Get ready to be inspired as Steve highlights practical strategies and real-world examples, emphasizing the direct correlation between operational excellence and a brand's enduring success. This keynote promises to set the tone for an engaging conference, leaving attendees with a profound understanding of the transformative impact that operational excellence and brand consistency can have on our collective success.

    • The Nisku Ballroom

  • Enjoy a revitalizing pause with energizing beverages and light snacks, providing a refreshing break before immersing yourself back into the day's sessions.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Grant McKegney, Director, Technology

    Join us for an insightful session as Grant McKegney, our Director, Technology unveils our much-anticipated 2024 Technology Roadmap. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a strategic glimpse into the future of technology within our hotels and discover how these advancements will not only enhance guest satisfaction but also drive operational efficiency.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Jaclyn Tong: Client Executive, Marsh Canada
    Ian Tarris: Risk Consultant, National Valuation Lead, Marsh Canada

    In this presentation Jaclyn Tong from Marsh Canada will review the critical aspects of risk management and insurance, providing invaluable insights to safeguard your business against unforeseen challenges. Jaclyn Tong will cover the diverse landscape of liabilities that hotels face and outline solutions designed to mitigate these risks effectively. With a focus on industry best practices, regulatory compliance, and strategic risk assessments, this presentation aims to empower our hotel leaders to make informed decisions in an ever-evolving risk environment.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Take a revitalizing break during lunch and tune in for special recognitions, immersing yourself in a moment of celebration and acknowledgment.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • This afternoon our group will separate into two cohorts; Group A will have the opportunity to engage with specialists from our corporate office, gaining valuable insights into all the information you've been curious about. In true speed networking fashion, each attendee will get a short five-minute meeting with our in-house discipline leaders. Together we’ll touch on strategies for achieving actionable excellence, fostering brand loyalty, and cultivating advocacy, and we’ll share real-time feedback through engaging discussions.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Kelli Steer, Vice President, Operations
    Linda Hagen, Director, Brand Engagement & Auditing
    Leon Deluca, Director, Facilities & Maintenance
    Arun Mutalik, Manager, Hotel Openings & Conversions

    This afternoon our group will separate into two cohorts; Group B will kick off their session in this workshop, designed to empower participants with practical insights on seamlessly integrating day-to-day operations with our brand strategy and brand promise. Through interactive discussions and collaborative exercises, Ambassadors will gain a deeper understanding of how each operational facet can build on our brand promise with our Refreshingly Real People™ to let our unique Coast Hotels brand identity shine through. From optimizing internal processes to fostering a culture of service excellence, this workshop offers a roadmap for bringing our brand promise to life.

    • Beaumont Room

  • Recharge for the afternoon ahead with a nutritious snack, providing a great energy boost.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • After the break our cohorts will switch; now Group B will connect with the specialists from our corporate office on everything you’ve wanted to know. In true speed networking fashion, each attendee will get a short five-minute meeting with our in-house discipline leaders. Together we’ll touch on strategies for achieving actionable excellence, fostering brand loyalty, and cultivating advocacy, and we’ll share real-time feedback through engaging discussions.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Kelli Steer, Vice President, Operations
    Linda Hagen, Director, Brand Engagement & Auditing
    Leon Deluca, Director, Facilities & Maintenance
    Arun Mutalik, Manager, Hotel Openings & Conversions

    After the break our cohorts will switch; now Group A joins this workshop designed to empower participants with practical insights on seamlessly integrating day-to-day operations with our brand strategy and brand promise. Through interactive discussions and collaborative exercises, Ambassadors will gain a deeper understanding of how each operational facet can build on our brand promise with our Refreshingly Real People™ to let our unique Coast Hotels brand identity shine through. From optimizing internal processes to fostering a culture of service excellence, this workshop offers a roadmap for bringing our brand promise to life.

    • Beaumont Room

  • Brigitte Diem-Guy, Vice President, Revenue Strategies & Communication

    • Nisku Ballroom

Wednesday, April 24

Conference Sessions, Day 2

  • It’s time for the most important meal of the day. Enjoy a hot breakfast to energize and sharpen your focus for the second day of our conference.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Brigitte Diem-Guy, Vice President, Revenue Strategies & Communication

    Prepare for an outstanding day as we commence our conference with a spirit of celebration and recognition.

    • Nisku Ballroom

 

LEADERSHIP STREAM

Nisku Ballroom

  • Patrick Sojka, Founder, FFB Group Inc.

    Patrick Sojka takes center stage to explore loyalty in the dynamic landscape of hospitality. Patrick will delve into the strategic significance of loyalty programs as powerful tools for building enduring customer relationships. From the fundamental principles of designing effective loyalty initiatives to navigating evolving consumer expectations, attendees can expect a comprehensive exploration of loyalty's impact on brand longevity and profitability. Patrick will share industry insights and practical tips to equip you with actionable strategies for fostering customer loyalty and advocacy.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • John Mayne, General Manager
    Todd Weitzel, General Manager
    Emma McDonald, General Manager
    David McQuinn, General Manager

    Moderated by Sameer Mathew, General Manager

    Get ready for an inspiring panel discussion where a selection of your peers will share success stories exemplifying the embodiment of "Living our Brand Promise". This dynamic session will showcase real-world examples of how these leaders have successfully integrated our brand values into their hotel operations, creating memorable moments for guests. Each success story will illuminate the power of aligning day-to-day practices with our brand promise. Engage with our panelists as they delve into the intricacies of guest satisfaction and experience, offering insights and strategies that have proven effective in fostering a brand-centric culture.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Take a delightful break with an array of healthy options to recharge and stay energized throughout the day.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Kelli Steer, Vice President, Operations
    Linda Hagen, Director, Brand Engagement & Auditing
    Leon Deluca, Director, Facilities & Maintenance
    Constable Cheri-Lee Smith, RCMP Leduc Detachment K division community policing/victim services liaison/public information officer

    The greatest responsibility we hospitality leaders have is the health and safety of our guests and Ambassadors. In this crucial session, we’ll explore the importance of meeting that responsibility and discuss some of the real risks we could face when we don’t. Using real-life, real Coast Hotels examples, we'll shed light on how we as leaders should be helping our Ambassadors to react calmly and professionally in the face of emergencies. We’ll also review some of the subsequent operational protocols that must be put into action when the unexpected occurs and share proactive measures and emergency preparedness strategies that are imperative to creating a safe and healthy environment in our hotels.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Shafina Hajee, Director, National Sales
    David McQuinn    , General Manager
    Gagan Singh, General Manager
    Todd Weitzel, Hotel Manager

    Join us for an enlightening session, where sustainability takes center stage. Led by passionate leaders in the hospitality industry, this panel discussion promises insights into sustainability practices. From eco-friendly initiatives to community engagement, discover how Coast Hotels is paving the way for a greener future while maintaining exceptional guest experiences and Amabassador satisfaction. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn, connect, and inspire change.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Take a break from presentations with a delightful lunch and a special opportunity to connect with our vendors at the Partners of Coast Hotels Tradeshow—once you’re finished eating, head to the Atrium to meet our Partners, discover innovative solutions, and foster valuable partnerships.

    • Nisku Ballroom/Atrium

  • Nooshi Akhavan, Director, Revenue Performance & Distribution
    Daniel Vasquez, MDM, Vice President Digital Strategy & Technology
    Ian McAnerin , MDM, Director Paid Search & SEO
    Emma McDonald, General Manager
    Nathan Gray, Corporate Director of Revenue Strategy

    During this session, Nooshi Akhavan, will share best practices and proven techniques to shift market share from Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) to direct channels. Discover how tapping into the full potential of direct bookings not only boosts revenue but also fosters brand loyalty. With a focus on actionable strategies, this presentation is a must-attend for hotel leaders seeking to navigate the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry and secure a more profitable future. Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your revenue strategy and elevate your hotel's financial performance.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Glen Merx, Director, People & Culture

    Glen Merx highlights Coast Hotels Employee Value Proposition (EVP) in this presentation. Discover how our tailored EVP not only enhances the experience for our existing Ambassadors but serves as a powerful magnet for attracting and retaining top talent. Our unique value propositions set us apart, ensuring a workplace culture that nurtures growth, fosters engagement, and builds a team committed to excellence. These valuable tools will support us in attracting, retaining, and empowering the best in the industry, ensuring that our hotels remain a destination not just for guests but for top-tier talent as well.

    • Nisku Ballroom

SALES STREAM

Beaumont Room

  • Shafina Hajee, Director, National Sales

    TBD

    • Beaumont Room

  • Amie Ceasor, Senior Manager, National Sales

    Join Amie Ceasor in a session focused on preparing for the upcoming business travel season. Amie will dive deep into best practices in setting up your hotel’s profile, strategies and best practices.

    • Beaumont Room

  • Junichi Tajiri, Director, Tour & Travel - Asia, National Sale

    Discover the excellence within the tour and travel market. Join Junichi Tajiri to understand the market, what he needs from the hotels to prepare for Rendezvous Canada, and the nuances of this segment.

    • Beaumont Room

  • Shafina Hajee, Director, National Sales

    Review of Coast Hotels sales standards. Shafina Hajee will focus on the importance of consistency, and brand standards in sales

    • Beaumont Room

  • Take a delightful break with an array of healthy options to recharge and stay energized throughout the day.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Eva Gutsche, Founder STEM Consulting & Marketing Inc.

    Delve deeper into the conversation, emphasizing the evolving landscape for sellers in customer engagement post-pandemic. Explore effective strategies for leveraging virtual interactions in the transformed work environment. Key discussion points will revolve around Creating Value for Clients, Establishing Connections and Adaptability, Strategic Needs Discovery, and Refining Negotiation Skills.

    • Beaumont Room

  • Take a break from presentations with a delightful lunch and a special opportunity to connect with our vendors at the Partners of Coast Hotels Tradeshow—once you’re finished eating, head to the Atrium to meet our Partners, discover innovative solutions, and foster valuable partnerships.

    • Nisku Ballroom/Atrium

  • Cheryl Foster-Hayes, National Director of Sales
    Tanya Tinker, Business Development Manager
    Neha Sinha, Director of Sales
    Dominic Monet, Senior Sales Manager

    Moderated by Eva Gutsche, Founder STEM Consulting & Marketing Inc.

    The discussion navigates the competitive hospitality landscape, dominated by larger brands, before delving into identifying Coast Hotels' strengths. Emphasizing sales excellence, the 'refreshingly local' approach, and community engagement as key differentiators, the panel illustrates how these factors can empower our sales teams to focus on effectively communicating our brand's differentials..

    • Beaumont Room

REVENUE MGMT. STREAM

Beaumont Room, Nisku Ballroom & Devon Room

  • Shafina Hajee, Director, National Sales

    TBD

    • Beaumont Room

  • Amie Ceasor, Senior Manager, National Sales

    Join Amie Ceasor in a session focused on preparing for the upcoming business travel season. Amie will dive deep into best practices in setting up your hotel’s profile, strategies and best practices.

    • Beaumont Room

  • Amie Ceasor, Senior Manager, National Sales

    Join Amie Ceasor in a session focused on preparing for the upcoming business travel season. Amie will dive deep into best practices in setting up your hotel’s profile, strategies and best practices.

    • Beaumont Room

  • Shafina Hajee, Director, National Sales

    Review of Coast Hotels sales standards. Shafina Hajee will focus on the importance of consistency, and brand standards in sales

    • Beaumont Room

  • Take a delightful break with an array of healthy options to recharge and stay energized throughout the day.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Eva Gutsche, Founder STEM Consulting & Marketing Inc.

    Delve deeper into the conversation, emphasizing the evolving landscape for sellers in customer engagement post-pandemic. Explore effective strategies for leveraging virtual interactions in the transformed work environment. Key discussion points will revolve around Creating Value for Clients, Establishing Connections and Adaptability, Strategic Needs Discovery, and Refining Negotiation Skills.

    • Beaumont Room

  • Take a break from presentations with a delightful lunch and a special opportunity to connect with our vendors at the Partners of Coast Hotels Tradeshow—once you’re finished eating, head to the Atrium to meet our Partners, discover innovative solutions, and foster valuable partnerships.

    • Nisku Ballroom/Atrium

  • Nooshi Akhavan, Director, Revenue Performance & Distribution
    Daniel Vasquez, MDM, Vice PresidentVP Digital Strategy & Technology
    Ian McAnerin , MDM, Director Paid Search & SEO
    Emma McDonald, General Manager
    Nathan Gray, Corporate Director of Revenue Strategy

    During this session, Nooshi Akhavan, will share best practices and proven techniques to shift market share from Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) to direct channels. Discover how tapping into the full potential of direct bookings not only boosts revenue but also fosters brand loyalty. With a focus on actionable strategies, this presentation is a must-attend for hotel leaders seeking to navigate the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry and secure a more profitable future. Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your revenue strategy and elevate your hotel's financial performance.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Amin Himani, Senior Manager, Revenue Strategy

    Following the dynamic presentation on " Maximizing Profits: Unlocking Revenue Potential with Direct Bookings" this engaging session is the opportunity to explore practical steps, share experiences, and discuss best practices in implementing the revenue strategies outlined. Insights turn into action in this discussion as our Revenue Leaders curate a toolkit of proven practices to elevate our revenue strategy. Don't miss this interactive session, as we lay the groundwork to unlocking the full potential of direct bookings.

    • Devon Room

ALL ATTENDEES

  • We’re in the home stretch now! Enjoy some great snacks before we hear from our closing Keynote Speaker.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Adam Kreek, Co-Founder ViDA, Business Coach, Olympian

    Adam Kreek is one of North America’s top executive business coaches specializing in accelerating results through leadership development, strategic planning, and values-driven achievement.

    Adam has coached, trained, and taught hundreds of thousands of people and teams at organizations. Before executive coaching and training, Adam worked in the financial and engineering fields. A two-time Olympian, Adam holds 60 international medals, including Olympic Gold and multiple Hall of Fame inductions. In 2013, Adam made the first-ever attempt to row unsupported across the Atlantic Ocean from Africa to America.

    In this transformative presentation, Adam will share the essential facets of leadership. In this inspiring session, we'll see how small changes like focus and consistency can establish effective habits to help us achieve peak performance. When we prioritize improving inch by inch those habits, strategies, and tools drive results.

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Brigitte Diem-Guy, Vice President, Revenue Strategies & Communication

    • Nisku Ballroom

  • Join us for some social time and cap off the conference sessions with a locally inspired cocktail in the Foyer.s:

    • The Foyer

  • Roll out the red carpet for the "Gilded Coast Hotels Gala: A Night of Honors," a glitzy and glamorous spectacle reminiscent of the Oscars. Join us for an evening of star-studded elegance, as we celebrate the best and brightest within Coast Hotels. From dazzling decor to the gourmet delights that steal the scene, every detail is designed to evoke the spirit of Hollywood's finest. As the curtains rise on this extravaganza, prepare to be enchanted by a night of awards, accolades, and memorable moments.

    This year’s award categories are:

    - Best Hotel in Hotel Cleanliness

    - Most Improved Revenue Generation Index

    - Highest Net Promoter Score

    - Highest Online Reputation Management Score – Global Review Index Score

    - Highest Coast Rewards Member Enrollments – weighted by percentage of available rooms

    - Members’ Choice Award

    - Ambassador of the Year

    - Leader of the Year

    - General Manager of the Year

    - Hotel of the Year
    weighted equally by Highest Cleanliness Score, Highest Revenue Generation Index, Likelihood to Recommend Score, and Net Promoter Score

    • Nisku Ballroom

Thursday, April 25

We hope you enjoyed your time in Nisku, Alberta, reconnecting with your Coast Hotels Family, and gained valuable insights and takeaways from the session provided. We’ll see you next year at our next Annual Coast Hotels Brand Conference destination in 2025!