MISSISSAUGA — Collette has named its first ever female CEO.

The family-owned tour operator, now in its 106th year of operations, has announced the succession of Jaclyn Leibl-Cote to Chief Executive Officer. As the fourth CEO in the company’s history and a third generation member of the Sullivan family, Leibl-Cote will lead Collette’s Executive and Strategic Leadership Teams, driving both Coleltte’s strategic direction and its day-to-day operations.

Jaclyn Leibl-Cote and Dan Sullivan, Jr

Current Collette CEO, Dan Sullivan, Jr., announced the news at a company-wide meeting. He will transition to the role of Executive Chairman, effective immediately, where he will act as an advisor to Leibl-Cote and the executive team on the company’s overall direction and long-term strategy.

“This transition is the culmination of a comprehensive succession planning process to ensure leadership continuity and position Collette for continued growth,” said Sullivan, Jr. “Jaclyn has served as President and Chief Experience Officer since 2018, bringing a wealth of knowledge to the organization. She successfully steered the company through a global pandemic, with Coleltte emerging stronger and more innovative than ever before.”

Leibl-Cote first joined Collette in 2005, holding roles as tour guide, client care agent, product designer and strategist, head of marketing and, most recently, President and Chief Customer Experience Officer. 

To view a video of Collette’s history, including Leibl-Cote’s CEO appointment, click here.