Pemberton Valley Lodge Wins Prestigious
“Employees First” Award
From the Tourism Industry Association of BC
At Pemberton Valley Lodge, our team has always been at the heart of everything we do. Whether it’s creating an exceptional experience for our guests or fostering a workplace where employees feel supported and valued, we believe that people come first. That’s why we are beyond thrilled to announce that we have been honored with the Employees First Award at the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) Conference on March 6, 2025!
This award is a testament to the incredible work environment we’ve built—a place where mental health, wellness, and professional development are more than just buzzwords; they are the foundation of our success.
What is the "Employees First" Award?
The Employees First Award is presented annually at the TIABC Conference and recognizes businesses that go above and beyond in fostering a positive and supportive workplace. The focus is on exceptional human resources practices, with an emphasis on mental health, wellness initiatives, professional growth, and creating an inclusive work environment.
For us at Pemberton Valley Lodge, this recognition is not just an award—it’s a celebration of our commitment to our people.
Why Pemberton Valley Lodge?
Winning this award is a significant achievement, and we couldn’t be prouder. What makes Pemberton Valley Lodge stand out? Here are a few key reasons why we were recognized:
Prioritizing Employee Well-Being
We know that happy employees create happy guests. That’s why we strongly focus on mental health support and wellness initiatives. From providing access to mental health resources to ensuring a healthy work-life balance, we prioritize supporting our staff personally and professionally.
Investing in Professional Development
We believe in fostering growth. Whether through ongoing training programs, leadership development, or skill-building workshops, we provide our team with opportunities to enhance their expertise and advance their careers in the hospitality industry.
A Workplace Culture Built on Respect and Inclusivity
At Pemberton Valley Lodge, we’ve built a workplace where every team member feels respected, heard, and valued. We encourage collaboration, open communication, and strong teamwork that allows our staff to thrive in their roles.
The Moment of Celebration
The award was accepted at the TIABC Conference by David MacKenzie, Managing Director of Pemberton Valley Lodge, alongside Landen Milne, our Operations Manager, and Paul Hawes, President/CEO of the BC Hotel Association. The moment was not just about recognition—it was a reflection of the effort and dedication our entire team puts in every single day.
Left to right: Landen Milne, Operations Manager at PVL; Paul Hawes, President/CEO of BC Hotel Association; and David MacKenzie, Manager Director at PVL.
David MacKenzie summed up the importance of this award, saying:
“Our team is the heart of Pemberton Valley Lodge, and this award is a testament to the incredible culture we’ve built together. We believe that investing in our employees’ well-being—both professionally and personally—leads to a stronger, more engaged team and ultimately enhances the experience we provide to our guests. We’re incredibly proud to be recognized for our efforts and remain committed to creating a workplace where our employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.”
Looking to the Future
Receiving the Employees First Award is an honor, but we see it as just the beginning. We will continue to strive for excellence in employee care, ensuring that Pemberton Valley Lodge remains a leading employer in BC’s hospitality industry. Our commitment to our staff goes hand in hand with our mission to provide unforgettable experiences for our guests.
We are so grateful to our team, our guests, and our community for supporting us on this journey. Thank you for being part of our story, and here’s to many more milestones ahead!
About Pemberton Valley Lodge
Pemberton Valley Lodge is an 85-suite resort hotel just 20 minutes north of Whistler, BC. We offer a unique blend of urban luxury and rural charm, with stunning mountain views, contemporary suites, and premium amenities, including a year-round heated pool, hot tub, fitness studio, and steam room. Whether guests are here for skiing, mountain biking, golfing, or simply relaxing, we provide a home away from home in the heart of the breathtaking Pemberton Valley.
