At K.I.S. Meetings, we believe that all sites should be treated equally and fairly during the site selection process. We approach each location with an open mind, considering factors such as availability, potential, and feasibility without bias. By adhering to the principle of fairness, we ensure that our clients have access to the widest range of options, allowing them to make an informed decision based on unbiased data.
In addition to fairness, we prioritize logical decision-making throughout our site selection process. We understand that each client's event has unique needs and considerations, and we strive to select sites that make the most sense from a logical perspective. By considering factors such as location, infrastructure, and market potential, we ensure that the selected sites align with the project's goals and objectives.
When you use our services, K.I.S. receives a placement fee from hotels you choose. However, I want you to know that your rates will not be affected in any way. The hotels pay the placement fee as part of their marketing budget and is not added onto your rate. At K.I.S. Meetings & Events, we represent our clients, not hotels. Our primary goal is to meet your specific needs by providing you with the best location, at the best price, and with the most favourable terms.
Whether you require a grand conference venue or an intimate gathering, K.I.S. Meetings & Events is ready to assist you. Let us take care of all the details, so you can focus on what matters most – conducting a successful event.
With more than 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise in hotel and restaurant management. My extensive background in this field has given me a deep understanding of the various aspects of operations, guest satisfaction, and industry trends. In May 2010, I founded K.I.S. Meetings and Events to provide full-service site selection and event management.
Orest Gawdyda is a Canadian tourism and hospitality professional whose career reflects a strong commitment to business development, destination marketing, and the attraction of major conferences and events. With extensive experience in sales, client relations, and partnership development, he has contributed to promoting Canadian cities as desirable destinations for meetings, conventions, sporting events, and professional gatherings.
Orest began his professional career with Postmedia Network, where he spent approximately 32 years developing his expertise in sales, management, and relationship building. This extensive corporate experience provided a strong foundation for his transition into the tourism and hospitality industry. He subsequently served as Corporate Sales Manager at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Regina, where he gained valuable experience in hotel sales and the business travel market.
He later joined the Regina Hotel Association, where he focused on business development and promoting Regina as a destination for conferences and major events. Through his work, Gawdyda contributed to attracting events that bring visitors to the city, support local hotels and businesses, and generate economic activity for the community.
Among the notable events associated with his professional accomplishments are the 2025 Skills Canada National Competition, the Petro-Canada Sport Leadership Sportif Conference, and the 2026 Canadian Society of Professional Event Planners (CanSPEP) Conference. These events represent important opportunities to showcase Canadian destinations, bring professionals together, and support the hospitality and tourism sectors.
In 2026, Orest moved to Ottawa and joined Ottawa Tourism as Manager, Business Events. In this role, he works to develop business opportunities and strengthen relationships with organizations, associations, government groups, Indigenous organizations, and sporting bodies. His efforts support Ottawa's position as a destination for national conferences, conventions, and sporting events while helping create economic opportunities for local tourism businesses.
A significant milestone in his career came in 2026 when he received the Jeremy Tyrell Memorial Award from CanSPEP. This recognition highlights his involvement in Canada's professional event-planning community and adds to his accomplishments in the business-events sector.
Throughout his career, Gawdyda has combined corporate sales experience with a passion for relationship building and destination development. His work illustrates the important role tourism professionals play in connecting event organizers with Canadian destinations and creating opportunities that benefit local communities. Through his ongoing work in business events, he continues to contribute to the growth and visibility of Canada's tourism and hospitality industries.
325 Perth Street. Almonte, ON K0A 1A0
Founder, Karina Navarro
Office: (613) 314-9827
karina@kismeetings.com
