Tigh‑Na‑Mara Seaside Spa Resort's Paul Drummond to retire

Drummond’s career began in the industry at the Westin in Edmonton, Alta., where he ventured into diverse roles across the globe – working in catering at the Pan Pacific in Vancouver, and working in hotels in Malaysia, Egypt and Minneapolis. In Chicago, he accepted the position of general manager of a boutique hotel awarded the Best New Hotel in Chicago in 2005 by Travel & Leisure Magazine. He was also actively involved in the area as a member of the board of directors for Golf Vancouver Island, and is the past chair for Oceanside Tourism Association after sitting as chair for four years.

His leadership at Tigh-Na-Mara, starting in 2007, transformed the resort into a premier destination in British Columbia and Parksville, earned international recognition, including a feature in National Geographic’s Spa & Wellness edition.

Throughout his tenure, his vision extended beyond the confines of the resort, exemplified by his instrumental roles on various boards and associations. His commitment to sustainability garnered accolades such as the FortisBC Award in 2016, and a consistent 4‑key rating by Green Key Global since 2018. His impact on the tourism sector had accomplishments such as the 320 per cent growth in revenue in Parksville’s accommodation sector since 2007.

Additionally, the resort has also announced the appointment of Jim Hykaway as its new general manager. Hykaway’s previous roles at the resort were assistant general manager and director of rooms. He has now been with the company for close to five years. Before that, he worked at Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort & Spa.