The Regina Exhibition Association Limited (REAL) is undergoing a significant leadership change after removing Tim Reid as their President and CEO.

Reid previously served as President and CEO of the Regional Recreation Corporation of Wood Buffalo, resigning in 2014, and was instrumental in the development of Shell Place.

The decision, made by the REAL Interim Board of Directors, was unanimous and marks the next phase in the formal review of the organization’s financial sustainability, organizational structure, operations, governance, and strategic mandate.

Interim Board Chair and City Manager Nikki Manager said the board decided to release Reid without cause.

“I think that as we kind of worked through the evolution of REAL and understanding that there has to be a significant change, the board really believed that having a new set of eyes and new leadership would be helpful in that journey.”

Anderson said going forward, she doesn’t expect any events to be affected by the leadership change.

“I would like to reassure every event holder, every person planning on coming to an event, that our number one consideration is making sure that all planned events run well.”

She hopes this shows that the board is willing to make changes to improve REAL.

“I would hope this actually sends a message that, as the interim board, we’re committed to doing what we feel is in the best interest of the organization to put it in a positive place.”

Roberta Engel, currently serving as vice president of Corporate Services, has been appointed the acting president and CEO. This leadership transition comes after nearly six years.

In the past 12 months, REAL went through a controversial and failed re-brand of Tourism Regina, asking the city for $6.4 million in the city’s budget. At that time, REAL was $17 million in debt.

The interim board, appointed by the city council in November 2023, is committed to working closely with Engel, leveraging her nearly six years of experience within REAL. The focus will be on thoroughly reviewing REAL’s financial and strategic operations to ensure stability.

The board aims to fulfill existing commitments, maintain operational stability, and fully support upcoming events under Engel’s leadership. This transition underscores REAL’s commitment to ongoing excellence in delivering events and services to the Regina community.