Western Fair District is pleased to announce the appointment of Reg Ash to the position of Chief Executive Officer effective, February 13, 2019. Mr. Ash succeeds Hugh Mitchell, who retired in the summer of 2018 after nine (9) years as the Association’s third CEO, Ash will be its fourth.
For 150 years, the Western Fair Association has become a progressive leader supporting London and region with programming and facilities that endeavour to meet the needs of the agriculture sector, provide innovative educational experiences and see that the evolving entertainment and recreational interests of its customers are met. “The Board is very pleased after an extensive review to have found its next leader within the organization,” said Joe Dales, Chair, Western Fair District, Board of Governors. “Mr. Ash has served as the Association’s Chief Administrative Officer for six years and within his 18-year career has overseen several business units, as well as Corporate Administration, Finance and Human Resources. His varied experience with and knowledge of the Association’s agriculture, business and community initiatives, plus his dedication and passion for its mandate will bode well for the future of Western Fair District, its employees, members and communities it serves,” said Dales.
The Association’s longevity and success would not be achieved without people. Mr. Ash takes on the District’s CEO role at a transformative time. He will lead members, volunteers and employees into the next era of this extraordinary community-based organization. He takes the reigns of the Western Fair Association as the Board, senior management team and staff have been developing a re-envisioned master site plan and progressive agriculturally focused business strategy to ensure WFD remains valued and relevant in the evolving agriculture, recreation and entertainment industry it helped pioneer.
“It's important to remain progressive and relevant to customers and communities we serve. That is the challenge in front of us,” said Ash, “I’m happy to be part of the Association’s next chapter, so proud to have dedicated my career to this historic, community organization and am thankful for the opportunity to carry on its leadership and legacy.”
(WFD)
Reg, For five years you
Reg,
For five years you brought a smile to my face everyday when I came to work. Today, I got an even bigger one when I saw your appointment announcement. Joe Dales and the board got it right! The commitment and leadership you’ve shown over many years, will undoubtedly serve the WFD's efforts to build a strong and viable future. Many exciting opportunities await you, and I wish you every success and professional fulfillment in your new role. Always remember that it wasn’t destiny that got you a new job. It was your courage and desire to make your own destiny that pushed you forward. Congratulations.