MEET THE FrExperts

Don’t be fooled by the titles – really, we are all in the Customer Service department! Let us know how we can help.

  • Erin joined the Fredericton Convention Centre as Director of Sales 14 years ago and in that time has led the business development growth, with steady increases every year in number of events and overall revenues. She accepted the role of General Manager on April 1, 2024.

    A graduate of the Wallace McCain Institute Strategic Executives Program, Blanchard is also active in the Convention Centres of Canada, and is a graduate of the Venue Management School of the International Association of Venue Managers. 

    Originally from Prince Edward Island, Blanchard has built her career and family in Fredericton for 25 years. Currently a board member with The Chalmers Foundation, she has also dedicated time to roles with the Fredericton Homeless Shelters board, an advisory board for the Fredericton International Airport, various Chamber of Commerce committees, and student-focussed programs at her childrens’ schools. 

  • Bringing experience from a lengthy history in hotel management and based at our Fredericton venue, Brenda gives back to her industry by volunteering with MPI Toronto, and PCMA Canada East. She takes pride in being an ambassador for her city and celebrating all that makes it so special. If you attend a Fredericton music festival, you will likely see Brenda there, either as a reveler or a volunteer. You can also find her enjoying everything local from supporting local restaurants and boutiques to walking the trails with her pup Ms. Shelby. Brenda participates in Fredericton life to the fullest. Meeting planners are in good hands with her!

  • Ryan joined the team as Business Development Manager in the summer of 2024. With a diverse background spanning government, the private sector, and entrepreneurship – all in Fredericton – Ryan is the partner you want when planning your event. A dedicated advocate for the Fredericton Capital Region, with a focus on connecting people and opportunities, his favorite local feature is the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge. You are likely to find Ryan running, biking, or paddleboarding on the Wolastoq (Saint John River). Active in the community, Ryan has served on several boards, including the UNB Alumni Association, Muriel McQueen Fergusson Foundation and Reds Volleyball Club. He is also a proud father of three adult children who have spread their wings and now live coast to coast!

  • Kristina has been a member of the events team since our doors first opened in 2011. Armed with a Certified Meeting Professional Certification, a diploma in Events and Promotions Management, as well as American Sign Language training, Kristina’s passion for learning is exceeded only by her focus on providing the highest level of customer service. Her event planning expertise is relied upon by colleagues and clients alike. When not seeing to every detail of your event, Kristina enjoys creating art, and going on adventures with her beautiful family.

  • Erin Leonard brings extensive experience in event coordination, much of it here at FCC through her most recent role with our catering partner, Delta by Marriott. Some of you may recognize Erin who was often on-site at events managing event execution, ordering specialty liquor products, and providing expert cocktail, beer, and wine suggestions.

    Erin is passionate about fitness and active living, with a background in Kinesiology. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her horse, Gilligan, who loves jumping (common) as well as blueberry and banana muffins (less common)! Erin also enjoys going on walks, working out, and exploring Fredericton’s local cafes and restaurants for the best coffee and dining experiences. Have a question about where to go after your event? Erin will not steer you wrong.

     

  • Justin has a strong background in event organization, most recently with the Conference Services Department at St. Francis Xavier University (St. FX), in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. Justin holds a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from St.FX (Class of 2021) and relocated to Fredericton in the fall of 2024 to be closer to family. He enjoys the city's beautiful parks, tree canopy, river, trail system, and vibrant craft beer scene. Outside of work, Justin is an avid golfer and a big NFL fan who enjoys spending time with his wife, Elizabeth, and their dog, Tim, a rambunctious Australian Shepherd. As a former USports college athlete, having played defensive back for the St.FX X-Men football team, your event will be well covered with Justin!

  • Shyanne joined the FCC team as a coordinator in spring 2023, and her enthusiasm adds a sparkle to our front office! Shyanne brings both customer service experience as well as an education in business management; after university she opened her own riding school and spends days off teaching riding lessons. When not at the barn, Shyanne takes full advantage of living in  Fredericton and always knows the best new restaurants to try! 

  • Hannah brings a diverse background in marketing, events, and customer service to her role as Administrative Coordinator (Sales). Hannah has experience with organizations like Ability NB, the St. Stephen Chamber of Commerce, and the Town of St. Stephen in both customer service and event coordination roles. A UNB Fredericton graduate with a BBA in Marketing and Sociology, she enjoys life on Fredericton’s peaceful Northside. A sports enthusiast and true crime fan, Hannah also relaxes by creating art. Fun fact: she once studied Electrical at New Brunswick Community College! 

  • Craig works on site at FCC as Director, Event Technology for Encore, FCC’s preferred in-house AV partner. Before joining the FCC team, Craig worked as an electrical apprentice, bartender/ banquets server/houseman, mailman and most recently a Technical Services Manager for Encore (Freeman). What a perfect storm of skills and experience he brings to any event! Outside of work, Craig enjoys spending time with family, and is passionate about Les Canadiens de Montréal!!

  • Scott brings more than 22 years of experience in technical and building operations to his role at FCC. Scott joined our team in early 2025 and is dedicated to ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently behind the scenes. A passionate motorcyclist, he also has a love for home renovation, auto and motorcycle repair, HVAC, and welding. And somehow finds time to be both a drummer and guitarist! At home, Scott and his wife, Amanda, enjoy the company of their dog, Walter, and two cats, Lola and Gary.

  • Casey is the Technical Supervisor for Encore, FCC’s preferred in-house AV partner. When not supporting live events here, Casey enjoys every type of live performance art from music to comedy to circus acts. Casey’s customer service focus is second-to-none, combined with 12+ years' experience and technical skills to make your event seamless. 

  • With more than 30 years marketing and communications experience in tourism, IT and advertising agencies, Patricia keeps the FCC’s communication channels humming. If you have interest in a news story or are wondering about the web site, social media or communications initiatives, Patricia will have your answer.

  • As Assistant Banquet Manager, Grant leads the team that ensures the tables are set, the décor is just how you asked, and the service your delegates experience is seamless. When not quietly leading the team on the floor, you will find Grant on the softball field, cheering for the Blue Jays, or at home with wife Tara, probably watching science fiction! 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

  • Sarah Corey Hollohan
    CEO, Ignite
  • Alicia Keating
    Assistant Director of Corporate Services/Acting City Treasurer, City of Fredericton
  • Beth Webster
    Vice President of Administration, Populus Global Solutions
  • Eric Rendell
    General Manager, Hilton Garden Inn Fredericton Downtown
  • David Seabrook
    Director, Recreation, Tourism and Public Engagement Department
  • Marcello Battilana
    Manager of Community Planning, City of Fredericton
  • Patrick Brooks
    Economic Development Officer, St. Mary's First Nation
  • Robert Reese
    Owner, The Royal Barbershop
  • Richard Smith
    Senior Vice President Eastern Canada, exp Global Inc.
  • Shawna Foster
    Owner, MoCo Downtown
BRIDGE AND RIVER