Appointee Biographies

MICHAEL LEVINSON

Michael Levinson has over 30 years experience in the travel industry. He is the founder and partner in two suite hotels in downtown Ottawa, Albert at Bay Suite Hotel and Best Western Plus Ottawa Downtown Suites. He was President of the Ottawa Gatineau Hotel & Motel Association, and Vice President of the Ontario Hotel & Motel Association (now known as the Ontario Restaurant, Hotel & Motel Association). He was a board member of the Human resources Executives of the Canadian Tourism Research Institute (CTRI). In the mid 1990’s he oversaw the development of Bookdirect, software for online hotel bookings. He founded a travel agency (as part of the software development) and worked with Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) as a travel agency owner for a period of over 18 years. He was an advisory board member, Marketing Committee, of Best Western Hotels International.

ANGELLA BLANAS

Angella Blanas is a senior economic and business development executive, known for her charisma, innovation, and community-focused approach. With extensive experience as a Senior Project Manager and Investment Attraction Advisor, she has achieved significant outcomes in economic and community development at local, regional, national, and international levels. Angella is dedicated to sustaining and promoting healthy environments and economic development to support people, communities, and the planet. Her expertise includes executive leadership, managing strategy and planning initiatives, and collaborating with stakeholders. She specializes in waterfront development, neighborhood revitalization, repurposing brownfields, urban development, and transportation planning. With over 20 years of professional experience, Angella is a trusted advisor and consultant. Angella holds a Bachelor of Architecture with a Minor in Project Management from Ryerson University and a Master of Architecture with a Minor in Urban Planning from the University at Buffalo, State University of New York. She also serves on several boards, including the Greenbelt Foundation.

JASVEEN RATTAN

Jasveen Rattan, PhD, is a distinguished leader in policy, stakeholder relations, and the hospitality and tourism sectors. As Director of Policy & Stakeholder Relations for the Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association (ORHMA), she drives advocacy initiatives and strengthens key industry-government connections. Since 2020, Dr. Rattan has served on the Board of Destination Ontario, focusing on promoting the province's tourism through impactful communication strategies. She holds a PhD, a Master’s in Tourism Policy and Planning, and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability. As Principal Consultant of JKR Consulting, she advises on sustainable solutions, leveraging international tourism consulting experience. Dr. Rattan has published in leading journals and spoken at both domestic and international conferences, underscoring her commitment to advancing the industry.