Suzanne Acton-Gervais has been named the new president of the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies and Travel Advisors (ACTA), a move outgoing president Wendy Paradis calls “an excellent choice” as the organization prepares for its next chapter in advocacy and industry leadership.
Suzanne Acton Gervais, ACTA president (Photo Credit: ACTA)
Effective July 10, 2025, Acton-Gervais will take over from Paradis, who announced her retirement earlier this year after leading the association through a transformative period for the industry.
Acton-Gervais brings extensive experience in the travel and aviation sectors, most recently serving as VP of Stakeholder Relations and Regulatory Affairs at the National Airlines Council of Canada (NACC).
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Her previous roles include positions at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Airports Council International (ACI World), Transport Canada, and Air Canada.
“We are thrilled to have found a person of this calibre to fill the ACTA president’s role,” said Monica Johnstone, Chair of ACTA’s Board of Directors.
“Suzanne’s lengthy experience in the travel and tourism sector, as well as her extensive advocacy experience and leadership skills will serve ACTA members well as the industry continues its recovery and looks to the future.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Acton-Gervais served as Interim President of NACC, helping steer Canada’s airline industry through one of its most challenging periods.
She also worked closely with ACTA President Wendy Paradis as part of the Canadian Travel & Tourism Roundtable, a coalition focused on national recovery efforts.
“I am honoured and excited to take on the role as President of ACTA,” said Acton-Gervais.
“This opportunity to represent and serve the members of ACTA aligns with both my professional experience and my deep commitment to Canada’s travel and tourism sector. ACTA plays a vital role in supporting travel agencies and advisors across the country, and I’m inspired by the opportunity to help guide the association into its next chapter and leading ACTA forward with the continued support of its dedicated and professional team.”
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Acton-Gervais is bilingual and holds a Bachelor of Education with a specialization in Adult Education—an asset that complements ACTA’s focus on education and professional development in the travel industry.
“We worked alongside each other advocating for Canada’s travel and tourism industry during the pandemic. She is an excellent choice for ACTA,” Paradis said.
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