Regina Exhibition Association names new interim president and CEO

WATCH: The Regina Exhibition Association has named Trent Fraser as its new CEO and President.

The Regina Exhibition Association Limited (REAL) board has appointed Trent Fraser as the organization’s new interim president and CEO.

Fraser will serve as the interim leader until the board hires a permanent CEO in the summer, the organization said in its announcement Thursday afternoon.

According to REAL, Fraser has more than 30 years experience in marketing, sales, project management and business development. He serves as the CEO of Fraser Strategy and previously worked with REAL as a consultant.

In the 2015 federal election, Fraser ran as the Conservative Party candidate for Regina Lewvan – a historically tight race which saw Erin Weir claim the seat for the NDP.

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Fraser is expected to lead the organization’s efforts as it focuses on “process improvements to increase revenues and cut costs.”

“I welcome the opportunity to help the REAL board implement strategic initiatives that will position the organization for long-term success,” Fraser said in the announcement.

Roberta Engel, who has served as REAL’s acting president and CEO for more than a year, will be leaving the organization.

“This was not an easy decision, as the past seven years have been a true highlight of my career,” Engel said in the announcement. “Having met all of my personal and professional goals, I know this is the right time for me to move on to pursue new opportunities.”

Engel had taken the position following the January 2024 firing of Tim Reid, who oversaw the organization through the Experience Regina scandal.

In the city’s most recent budget, REAL’s requested $11.2 million was approved – which was a reduction from its initial ask of $12.7 million.