Hugh Mackenzie

Early in his career, Hugh Mackenzie had a leadership role in Wilderness Tours’ substantial growth, moving from a river experience to a full-fledged resort, complete with major capital projects and a large team. In Kingston, he reinvigorated the iconic 1000 Islands tour, steering the community toward new experiences and markets, with a focus on culinary and entertainment offerings.

Innovation has been a hallmark of Hugh Mackenzie's career. He introduced creative tourism programs, shifting the focus to dining cruises, the "hop-on, hop-off" Trolley model, and the K-Pass to enhance the visitor experience. His influence has not been limited to Kingston; he has shared best practices with operators and communities, fostering industry growth and collaboration across North America.

Hugh Mackenzie's commitment to the greater good is evident through his involvement in initiatives like Kingston Accommodation Partners and the creation of the Municipal Accommodation Tax model. He advocated for regulatory changes and successfully influenced government decisions to support tourism during the pandemic.

Moreover, Hugh Mackenzie's passion for nurturing talent is reflected in his support of career pathways for new recruits and his mentorship, leading to the growth and empowerment of many employees within Kingston Destination Group and beyond.