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Eric is a recognized leader in the hotel and resort/recreational industry having built two successful companies from the ground floor employing over 700 people, generating $100MM+ in annual revenue, winning Canada’s Best Managed Companies (by Deloitte) 6 times consecutively, and a Pinnacle Award winner as Hotel Company of the Year. Throughout his impressive 20+ year career in the hospitality and real estate development and management industries, Mr. Watson has been responsible for the structuring, acquisition, project management, operations, asset management and disposition of commercial and residential real estate assets valued over $1B. He played an instrumental role in establishing Microtel by Wyndham as the fastest growing hotel chain in Canada and has overseen the development and management of over 35 hospitality, recreational/residential and commercial properties, including 6 Indigenous owned/partner hotels. Eric’s experience spans almost all classes and scales of hospitality assets from global brands to independent/boutique, economy to luxury, and condo hotels, rental programs, fractional ownership and traditional hotel ownership models. Eric is a frequent speaker, moderator and contributor at industry conferences/forums, participates on a variety of industry advisory boards, and is an active member of Young Presidents Organization (YPO).
In the spirit of respect, reciprocity and truth, we honour and acknowledge Moh’kinsstis, and the traditional Treaty 7 territory and oral practices of the Blackfoot confederacy: Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, as well as the Îyâxe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina nations. We acknowledge that this territory is home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3 within the historical Northwest Métis homeland. Finally, we acknowledge all Nations who live, work and play on this land, and who honour and celebrate this territory.
May 14-15, 2024
Grey Eagle Resort & Casino, Tsuut’ina Nation
Calgary, AB, T3E 3X8
September 24-25, 2024
Casino Rama Resort, Rama Nation
Orillia, ON, L3V 6H6