Welland resident and former Olympian Richard Dalton has been hired on a short term contract to manage the WRCC for 2016.
Welland, ON – Welland resident and former Olympian Richard Dalton has been hired on a short term contract to manage the WRCC for 2016. He will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations and directing WRCC staff, liaising with canal user groups for events on the recreational waterway and rentals at the Welland International Flatwater Centre (WIFC), reviewing business plans for events planned for 2017 and 2018, and leading stakeholder engagement sessions regarding management and governance options.
“Richard has an intimate knowledge and expertise of water sports and managing events, familiarity with WRCC operations, and strong working relationships with canal user groups,” said Interim Board Chair and Welland Mayor Frank Campion. “With almost 30 events confirmed for 2016, Richard will be the point of contact and will work collaboratively with staff, the community, and key stakeholders to ensure these events are a success. He is also well-positioned to assist the Board in reviewing management and governance options and we look forward to his findings and recommendations.”
An Interim Board of Directors has been in place since November 2015 and have been providing direction to an Interim Management Team. The Interim Board have indicated that 2016 will be a transition year while the Board considers other management and governance options. They are also committed to ensuring continuity of operations and having events and rentals proceed as planned.
Mr. Dalton has been hired on a short term contract (May 1st, 2016 to September 30, 2016) and he will report to the City of Welland’s Chief Administrative Officer. Richard Dalton grew up in Halifax, Nova Scotia and graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Saint Mary's University. He competed with the Canadian National Canoe Team for 12 years (canoe paddler in singles and doubles); he was an Olympian in Athens in 2004; a Pan American Games gold medallist in 2011; and a 5 time world championships medallist. He also worked for RBC in public relations with a focus on internal health and wellness programs prior to moving to Welland. He has worked for the WRCC as an event manager and more recently has been working with the South Niagara Canoe Club.
