Published on May 8, 2017
It’s no understatement to say that Shaw Centre owes its constant success to the unwavering efforts of a top-notch team. From housekeeping to front of house, security to sales, we all work in tandem to book, plan and host hundreds of events – both large and small – every year. We would not be able to welcome the thousands of guests that enjoy gathering in our beautiful building without the talents of our Account Managers, each of whom brings a diverse set of skills and experiences to their roles at Shaw Centre. It’s my sincere pleasure to introduce them to you:
Matthew Blackburn is our Account Manager for Local and Regional Sales. He holds a degree in communications from Wilfred Laurier University as well as a business diploma from Seneca College. His over fifteen years of experience in the service and hospitality industry includes five years as an account manager with a Toronto-based marketing company, where he played a key role in opening restaurants in both Ottawa and St. John’s, Newfoundland. Prior to joining Shaw Centre, Matthew was a vital part of the management team at Nordstrom’s Bazille Restaurant; during his time there, he continued to hone his excellent customer service skills and demonstrated a commitment to providing ‘above and beyond’ experiences. At Shaw Centre, Matthew is able to apply both his business and management backgrounds when assisting you in planning your next event. Having relocated from Toronto just over 5 years ago, Matthew is truly enjoying everything the nation’s capital has to offer, including attending the many live sporting events around the city or hiking in Gatineau Park.
Amanda Munroe is one of two Account Managers for National Convention Sales Originally from PEI, Amanda enjoyed the opportunity to live all across Canada while growing up. Ottawa has been her home base for over a decade, with the exception of a brief stint in Toronto where she worked as an account manager for a print and design company. Amanda’s professional background includes ten years in the retail and fashion industry where she provided exemplary customer service and developed strong client relationships. Her superior organizational skills and keen eye for detail quickly allowed her to move into a management role where she supported several store openings across Ottawa. Amanda spent five years as the general manager of locally owned, high-end boutiques and her most recent position was as a department manager at Nordstrom. Leading the highest-volume team in the store, she also played a vital role in opening the Nordstrom store in Vancouver. Amanda is excited to put her experience to work every day, helping clients create memorable, successful events at Shaw Centre. In her spare time, Amanda enjoys running with her dog along the Rideau Canal and going for dinner in the ByWard Market.
Delia Lapensée is our other Account Manager for National Convention Sales. She’s an award-winning event strategist with over fifteen years of sales and planning experience in meetings, conventions and trade shows. Her career began in Ottawa with Freeman Exposition Services Canada, where she excelled in Exhibitor Services. Delia soon relocated to Freeman Canada’s Toronto headquarters where she demonstrated exceptional customer service skills. Due to her superior performance, she was asked to support shows with over 500 exhibitors for other branches in cities such as Montreal, Boston and San Diego. Delia’s background includes five years’ experience with another major convention facility, specializing in event coordination and catering services. She also held the position of National Sales Director with a major consumer expo. Her impressive database of industry contacts has already proven to be an asset since joining the Shaw Centre team in 2011. A recipient of the Ontario Hostelry Institute’s 2010 Top 30 Under 30 award, Delia’s passion for events is as apparent as her passion for people. When she’s not at work, she’s probably still thinking about work or travelling the world.
Karen Wiersma is Shaw Centre’s Account Manager for Associations. Born in Montreal, she has proudly called Ottawa home for the past 22 years and is passionate about promoting the National Capital Region as a great destination as well as a great place to live. A graduate of Algonquin College’s School of Hospitality and Tourism, Karen has almost 20 years of experience working in the hotel industry, including roles in sales and as a conference services manager. One of her keys to success is surpassing any expectations clients may have of the sales process from start to finish. Karen eagerly demonstrates her vast knowledge of the hospitality industry when assisting clients in creating extraordinary events at Shaw Centre. In her spare time, Karen is often found at the dog park with her dog Bayler, entertaining family and friends or cheering on Ottawa Senators and Ottawa Redblacks.
I hope that this insight into our Account Managers helps you appreciate why we are so pleased to be able to leverage their skills and experience to help make your event a success. These individuals are reflective of the entire Shaw Centre team in their customer-focused approach in all that they do. We look forward to welcoming you at Canada’s Meeting Place.
