NEWH - Summer 2014 - 24

Q&A

Meet Chris Tucker
President of NEWH Canada, Inc.; vice
president, international relations, NEWH
Inc.; and founder of Tucker & Associates

How/Why did you want to become involved in NEWH?
I had heard about this networking golf event, so I connected
with NEWH for a game and networking potential. Now, nine
years later, the golf tournament is one of our Toronto hospitality
community's must-attend events. Not long after, Priscilla
Nesbitt from the Toronto board of directors asked me if I would
take on the treasury role for the Canada chapter. I took the bait,
became involved, and am now known as a "lifer" and this is my
extended family.
What has NEWH done for you personally and professionally?
Early in my NEWH membership I had the benefit of being part
of the international board, fi rst as a delegate and then part of
the executive committee. The Canada chapter was in the early
stages, which allowed me to advance quickly on the international
board of directors. I am proud to be affi liated, with friendships
that span borders and oceans built on the common ground of
NEWH. NEWH connections have been a large part of assisting
the start up of Tucker & Associates sales agency three years ago.
It is refreshing to be part of a group of like-minded individuals,
and most very involved NEWH'ers are over achievers and step
up to assist when asked. When we connect it is great to compare
notes and strive for work-life balance.
What do you have planned as NEWH Canada president for 2014?
In NEWH Canada we have the Toronto Chapter, which is
celebrating the 10th anniversary of the chapter chartering on
November 18 at the Bata Shoe Museum. We are looking forward
to honoring the chapter's success story and all the individuals
that helped us grow. We now have a very strong regional
group in Vancouver with excellent support from the design
community. They frequently host events with more attendance
than the Toronto chapter and it is growing very positively in that
region. We also are starting to build in Atlantic Canada and look
forward to its growth this year.
What were some of the highlights from your chapter in 2013?
The San Francisco Leadership Conference was a great start
to the year with the largest Canadian attendance to date at
one of our conferences. We have had very successful events
across the country and have been able to maintain or grow

24 www.newh.org

our memberships in all areas. The Vancouver regional group
awarded its fi rst scholarship in November 2013-a great boost to
make those aware of what our mission statement is. Halifax had
its inaugural event at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront with
more than 60 guests in attendance. Our Four Seasons Toronto
event had a great turn out from non-members and with that
exposure we look forward to more growth.
What's new at Tucker & Associates?
It is fi nding the balance of products and companies to get the
perfect fit for my clients, and not becoming overloaded with
all the opportunities that fi nd their way to us through the
NEWH network. We focus on hospitality and multi-residential
projects, currently specializing in commercial wallcoverings,
public area and guest room lighting, and soft seating for these
markets. Right now we have excellent manufacturers providing
quality products that meet stringent budgets, which is always a
challenge in this crazy marketplace.
What is your latest travel highlight?
My typical travel is for NEWH board of directors meetings
or conferences, but last fall my husband and I fi nally took a
trip we had talked about for years to the Greek Islands. My
procrastination in committing to taking this trip was based on
my concern about how I could leave my business for two weeks.
Upon my return the world was still revolving and life went on-
who knew?
When you aren't working or at an NEWH event, where can we
find you?
My family has been a great support, allowing me to spend as
much time as I do with NEWH and the business, which aren't
9-to-5 kind of positions. My sons keep me busy and are a great
release if they aren't doing the typical parental provoking! My
other indulgence is the great Canadian pastime of hockey. In the
winter I am able to play three times a week and love it! I am not
the greatest but it is my fitness program that keeps me active.  ❙❘❚
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NEWH - Summer 2014

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