Interview with Sunwing's Andrew Dawson
In October 2023, TICO ushered in a new Board of Directors. The new nine-member Board is equally represented by TICO’s three largest stakeholders, with three elected industry Directors, three elected public Directors and three Directors appointed by the Minister.
Sunwing Vacations Group President Andrew Dawson was elected as one of the Directors representing industry.
We had a chance to sit down and ask Andrew about his first few months on TICO’s Board.
What motivated you to run for election as a TICO Director?
“When I learned about how the TICO Board would be restructured, with only three members from industry, I thought Sunwing’s role as both a retailer and wholesaler could add a valuable viewpoint. I decided to throw my hat in and see if I can offer multiple industry perspectives, while only using one of the industry seats.”
Is there anything that has surprised you about being on TICO’s Board?
“Serving on TICO’s Board is my first time being on a government-oriented Board. Prior to this experience, I didn’t realize how closely TICO works with government on many of its decisions. There’s a bit of back and forth before something is finalized. Coming from a family business, I’m used to decisions being made very, very quickly.”
Where do you believe Directors have the biggest opportunity to make an impact?
“Really making sure we shape TICO for the future and that we strike a balance between offering good customer service and ensuring that costs from industry are collected equitably. I think there’s a real opportunity for industry to use TICO as a selling tool to generate business and increase customer confidence.”
What do you see for the industry as it relates to consumer protection for the year ahead?
“I think this will be a very interesting year. Coming off the back of the Auditor General report, there are a number of recommendations that need to be looked at and implemented. There will be more ways for industry and for consumers to get involved with TICO with the two new advisory councils (click here for recruitment info). All of these initiatives will come together to ensure we are shaping TICO in a way that’s beneficial for everyone. It’s going to be an interesting year or two!”
Dawson added: “within the broader travel environment, there’s also an important conversation happening about how the federal Air Passenger Protection Regulations will be shaped to be fair and equitable for all stakeholders.”
Do you have any insights for industry members thinking about joining the TICO Board in the future?
“Richard (TICO’s CEO) and the TICO team are really the heart of the organization and are doing a fantastic job with the resources they have. Joining the Board – or one of the advisory councils – is a way to support and embrace the fact that Ontario has the best consumer protection on the continent!”