Ottawa, ON, Oct. 4, 2021 – Equestrian Canada (EC) is pleased to announce that Melanie McLearon has joined the team in the position of Director, Marketing and Communications, effective Oct. 4, 2021.

McLearon has an extensive and successful track record with 20 years of experience in the public and private sector, specializing in providing strategic leadership with a focus on marketing and communications. She has served in various roles over her career, most recently as a member of the senior leadership team at Simcoe Muskoka Family Connexions, where she was responsible for communications, fundraising, stakeholder engagement and media relations.

Known for her strong ability to lead successful rebranding projects and highly competent writing skills, McLearon also excels at relationship building and fostering teamwork. Well versed in storytelling as a leader of a marketing and communications department, she has been effective in many areas of an organization in her career.

McLearon, an avid equestrian athlete, is a graduate from Western University’s Ivey Business School. She spent her young life overseas living and being educated in Saudi Arabia, Austria and Spain and has continued to travel extensively throughout her life to over 30 countries. In addition to her academic success, McLearon’s career highlights include working for Bruce Power, the United Way, the Ivey Business School, and World Vision Canada where she was involved with building an unique skill set that allowed her to be part of brand growth, relationship building with stakeholders and implementing effective marketing strategies throughout her successful career.

As Director, Marketing and Communications, Melanie will be reporting to the office of the CEO. A key element of the role is to plan and manage the delivery of high-quality communications in multi-faceted mediums. This role will present the overall marketing strategy for campaigns and lead engagement with current and potential stakeholders. Additionally, a significant function will be to create a phased marketing and promotion business plan, which will increase the visibility and awareness of equestrian sports and industry in Canada.

“I am thrilled to be joining EC and the team’s commitment to serve equestrians in their pursuit of personal excellence from pony to podium,” said McLearon. “As a lifelong equestrian, I am excited to marry my professional skills and talents with my passion for horses and the equine community. I look forward to the new challenges and opportunities ahead.”

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