THOROLD, ON (Nov. 2, 2015) CAA Niagara today announced the appointment of Drew Chamberlain as its new President and Chief Executive Officer. A chartered accountant, management consultant and former Chief Financial Officer of Niagara Casinos, Mr. Chamberlain replaces Patricia Nielsen, who retires Nov. 27 after eight years of leading the 104 year old auto club. Mr. Chamberlain was among more than 90 applicants for the job.
"We're absolutely delighted to have someone with Drew's business expertise and community commitment at the helm of CAA Niagara," said Sharon Broderick, incoming chair of the CAA Niagara Board. The new CEO is a graduate of Ryerson University in Toronto and played a major role in the launch of the Fallsview Casino and the subsequent rebranding of the region's first gaming centre, Casino Niagara. He has spent the last five years as a director with HLT Advisory Inc. which provides a wide range of advisory services to the Canadian and international hospitality, leisure and tourism industries.
"I look forward to building on the incredible foundation and stellar reputation of CAA Niagara, built by Ms. Nielsen, her senior team, staff and the more than 120,000 members who trust CAA for emergency road service, travel, insurance and rewards. I want to see membership become more valued than ever."
A long-time resident of Fonthill, Niagara, Mr. Chamberlain and his wife, Helen, have two children. An avid golfer and hockey player, he will assume his new duties as president and CEO on Monday, Dec. 7.
CAA Niagara is a not-for-profit auto club that also offers insurance, travel and rewards. Founded in 1911 as the St. Catharines Automobile Club with just 16 members, CAA Niagara has grown to more than 120,000 members with five Niagara locations; St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Welland, Thorold and Grimsby.