The BC Pavilion Corporation (PavCo) has announced the appointment of Rehana Din as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective May 9, 2026. She will succeed longtime CEO Ken Cretney, who is set to retire on May 8 after 18 years with the organization, including 12 years at the helm.
The announcement was made by PavCo’s Board of Directors, who expressed confidence in Din’s leadership and vision for the organization’s future. Board Chair Dr. Gwendolyn Point acknowledged Cretney’s longstanding contributions, noting that his impact on British Columbia’s tourism and events sector will be felt for years to come. She also described Din as an exceptional leader and the board’s unanimous choice to lead PavCo into its next chapter.
Din’s appointment reflects PavCo’s commitment to internal succession planning. With more than 13 years at the organization, she has held several senior leadership roles, including Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary from 2013 to 2021, and Chief Operating Officer for the past five years. Her tenure has been marked by a focus on operational improvements, financial performance, and advancing PavCo’s mandate to generate economic and community benefits for the province.
Prior to joining PavCo, Din served as Chief Financial Officer at Gateway Casinos & Entertainment, where she led key financial and operational initiatives. She brings over two decades of leadership experience across both public and private sectors, recognized for her strategic insight and inclusive leadership style.
Din has also played an active role in the broader tourism and events industry. She currently serves as Chair of the Board for Destination Vancouver and previously contributed to the Audit Committee for Canuck Place Children’s Hospice. In 2025, she was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of her contributions to the community and province.
Government officials also welcomed the leadership transition. Anne Kang, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, praised Cretney’s role in overseeing major conventions, cultural events, and sporting milestones in British Columbia. She highlighted Din’s contributions to PavCo, including her leadership in advancing Vancouver’s successful bid and planning efforts for the FIFA World Cup 2026, and expressed optimism about continued collaboration.
"Ken has overseen some of the most important conventions, sports, music and cultural events in our province's history, and we wish him the very best in his much - deserved retirement," said Anne Kang, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. "Rehana’s appointment recognizes her impact at PavCo, including leading the organization’s FIFA World Cup 26 journey from the event bid stage onward, and I look forward to continuing our work together to showcase Vancouver and B.C.’s proven ability to host major even concerts and conventions for the benefit of all British Columbians.”
Cretney described his decision to retire as the result of careful reflection following a five-decade career in the tourism and hospitality industry. He expressed confidence in Din’s ability to lead PavCo forward, calling her the right person to guide the organization into its next phase.
In a statement, Din said she was honoured to take on the role after more than a decade with the organization. She emphasized her commitment to continuing PavCo’s work, noting that its success is defined not only by financial performance but also by its impact on industry, community, and the province as a whole.
Industry leaders also voiced their support. Royce Chwin, President and CEO of Destination Vancouver, highlighted Din’s collaborative approach and her role in elevating Vancouver’s global profile through major events such as the Invictus Games, Web Summit Vancouver, and the closing shows of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour.
Peter Montopoli, Chief Tournament Officer for FIFA World Cup 2026 Canada, underscored the importance of experienced leadership as the country prepares to host the global event, noting Din’s deep understanding of the scale and complexity involved.
Bridgitte Anderson, President and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, emphasized PavCo’s critical role in driving economic growth through business tourism and major events. She expressed confidence that Din’s leadership will help Vancouver continue to attract world-class events and investment.
As PavCo prepares for a leadership transition, the organization is poised to build on its legacy while continuing to position British Columbia as a global destination for major events, conventions, and cultural experiences.
