Bill Duron
Foundation Representative
William (Bill) Duron is a well-known tourism, media, and event management executive. His early career started with Tourism Toronto as Vice President of Convention Sales and after two years he was promoted to President and CEO, a position he held for 18 years. During that time, he led the tourism marketing effort which accelerated Toronto's market presence throughout the world. Bill also advanced public policy and funding for the development of major tourism events and facilities such as the highly successful Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
He also represented Canada's tourism industry in the Free Trade Agreement between Canada and the United States, authored a Canadian Tourism Strategy which led to the creation of the Canadian Tourism Commission, and was elected as the first non-US President of the Destination Marketing Association International.
Bill then went on to be Publisher of Toronto's popular and authoritative city magazine, Toronto Life, and later became President of the parent company, Key Media Ltd., owner of Where Magazines, Fashion, Quill and Quire, and Fashion File TV. After selling the company to St. Joseph Communications, Bill became independent advisor to the Company while becoming CEO of the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and Royal Horse Show, a 10-day event that attracts 350,000 people, 6500 farm animals, and 1800 horses. Under his leadership, the Royal achieved record attendance, became the most prestigious horse show in North America and exceeded financial targets. He also purchased the Toronto Island Marina and Yacht Club on Toronto Island, a facility that provides mooring, marine services and food and beverage for 460 recreational boats. Bill then purchased Cerro Coyote, an Inn and Cooking School, in San Ramon, Costa Rica which he operates from December to April.
In addition to consulting assignments for organizations such as Parks Canada and the Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation, his current voluntary involvements include Incoming Chair of the RCMP Foundation and Board representation with the Canadian National Sportsmen's Shows and the Headwaters Health Care Foundation.