Canadian Impresario Jeffrey Latimer to Lead Canada's Walk of Fame

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TORONTO, March 15, 2017 /CNW/ - The Board of Directors for Canada's Walk of Fame has announced the appointment of Jeffrey Latimer as Chief Executive Officer effective April 3, 2017. Canada's Walk of Fame will join the roster of entertainment properties managed by Jeffrey Latimer Entertainment (JLE).

Drawing on his expertise producing and managing live entertainment across North America for over two decades, and leveraging his vast network of influencers, Latimer will be responsible for moving the organization forward, taking the brand to the next step in its growth.

"I am excited to expand the national vision of this prestigious organization and look forward to helping reinforce the brand with all Canadians. We have the opportunity to build on the amazing 19 year history of Canada's Walk of Fame, open new doors and build strong partnerships for the future. With so much pride in Canada this year with the 150^th celebrations – and so many extraordinary Canadians making a difference in the world – this is the perfect time for me and my team to take the helm," said Latimer.

Latimer will continue to build on the successes of Melanie Hurley, who led Canada's Walk of Fame since 2014 with a mandate to make a complete organizational assessment that included various programing changes, implementation of new policies and procedures, and the vision of a new "Golden Globe style" format for the Canada's Walk of Fame Broadcast Gala. Latimer and Hurley will work closely together over the next few weeks to ensure a smooth transition period.

"We appreciate all of the vision, dedication and enthusiasm that Melanie brought to the brand over the last three years. Canada's Walk of Fame has benefited significantly from Melanie's leadership. We wish her well in her future endeavours," said Lewis Rusen, Chair, Canada's Walk of Fame Board of Directors, and Vice Chairman, North America - Korn Ferry | Hay Group.

"It's been an honour working at Canada's Walk of Fame and I wish the organization and Jeffrey all the success in the future," said Melanie Hurley.

Latimer has produced and managed live theatre, musical productions, TV and film, artists and major events in North America for the past 25 years. Based in Toronto, Jeffrey Latimer Entertainment is set up to develop, create, produce, present and manage the best in artists, live entertainment, events, and TV and film.

"Jeffrey is a seasoned entrepreneur with a passion for creativity and vision. He is the right individual to elevate this brand and spearhead the organization moving forward," continued Rusen. "On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am delighted to welcome Jeffrey to Canada's Walk of Fame. We have a bright future ahead of us celebrating and recognizing Canadian excellence."

Latimer has produced hundreds of live shows and has been Director of Business Development for The Second City, helping to launch their new theatre in Toronto, and continues to work with Just For Laughs on strategic partnerships.

Currently, Latimer manages artists such as JUNO Award-winning multi-platinum recording artists, The Tenors and JUNO Award-winning soul singing sensation, Sean Jones.

Latimer's charity work is vast including Chairing The ONEXONE Foundation Gala headed by Matt Damon; the Community Outreach Board of the SickKids Foundation; the Chair of Ron White's "White Knight Gala"; and the Co-Chair of both the 2010 and 2013 David Foster Foundation Toronto Galas where he continues to sit on the board. Latimer was a founding co-chair and is currently the Global Co-Chair of Free the Children's "WE Day."

SOURCE Canada's Walk of Fame

Andrea McLoughlin, Holmes PR, 416-628-5609, [email protected]; Adrienne Kakoullis, Holmes PR, 416-628-5610, [email protected]