Ottawa, ON - Equestrian Canada (EC) announced today that Yves Hamelin will step down from his position of Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) on January 29, 2021, before the planned end of his term in November 2021. Hamelin has accepted the position of Vice-President, Performance Services, at l’Institut national du sport du Québec, which represents a wonderful opportunity at this point in his career.

EC President Meg Krueger, who has a wealth of experience in the equestrian industry across North America, will step down as President and take on the leadership role as CEO. According to EC bylaws, Vice President Chris Sorensen will become President until the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in October 2021.

Krueger’s career in the equestrian industry spans 20 years, during which she managed equestrian venues and events, as well as developed programs from the grassroots to International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) level across several disciplines. Krueger helped pioneer the Canadian Jumper Development Series and was a member of the Canadian Breeds and Industry Council. She acted as the Chief Operating Officer of the Colorado Horse Park in Denver, CO, and Vice President of Sales and Sponsorship for Equestrian Sport Productions in Wellington, FL. Krueger brings to the role her passion for strengthening sport and industry in Canada and fostering strong community relationships and corporate partnerships.

Since the EC Board began the search for a CEO and engaged Hamelin in the interim position in October 2019, EC, like so many others, has endured enormous challenges due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Under Krueger’s tireless leadership and in close collaboration with key stakeholders, we will continue to strengthen EC and equestrian organizations across the country without delay.

James Hood, EC High Performance Director and part of the senior leadership team, has agreed to support Krueger’s transition and ongoing strategic planning.

“EC would like to recognize the work Yves has contributed to the development of our national federation over the past two years. We wish him the best of luck in his new role,” said Sorensen.

Hamelin concluded, “I would like to thank everyone I had the chance to work with in my role since my arrival, including [the] EC Board of Directors for their trust. I would like to recognize the work of my colleagues and partners for their support and the work carried out during these difficult times. My departure is above all linked to an opportunity that fits perfectly into my personal and family plan. Thank you once again, and the best of luck.”

Main Photo: Equestrian Canada President, Meg Krueger, will step down from the Board of Directors and take on a new leadership role as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) following the departure of Interim CEO, Yves Hamelin, on Jan. 29, 2021.