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Shannon De Groot Joins SFU As New Director of MECS

December 01, 2022

By Taylor Assion

“I’m thrilled to be continuing my career as part of an advanced, diverse and integrative institution such as SFU.”

Shannon De Groot has joined SFU as the new director of Meeting, Events and Conference Services (MECS) which supports gatherings of all sizes with excellent event planning, catering, technical support and more at the Vancouver, Surrey and Burnaby campuses. 

De Groot comes to her new role having moved back to Canada prior to the pandemic after building a global career based out of the Netherlands. Her leadership experience is diverse with positions across for-profit and nonprofit sectors. Her most recent role prior to joining SFU was as the Director of Operations with International Conference Services (ICS) based out of Vancouver.

What De Groot brings to SFU is a strong passion for collaborative leadership and organizational development fostered by her experience and education. She studied at Camosun College, the University of Waterloo (BAS) and Roehampton University (MBA) and holds certifications in Project Management, Adult Education, Leadership and Executive coaching. Her international experience, education and training will be an asset to the institution as we navigate the ever-changing realities of our world and ensure her department's success.

“SFU has a strong reputation for being progressive and advancing new ideas,” says De Groot. “I look forward to continuing to uphold our innovative practices while we develop the future of MECS at SFU.”

While De Groot started her SFU journey in October, her predecessor, Lynda Hewitt, will stay on board until her upcoming retirement in 2023 to support the transition of leadership in the department.  

“I appreciate the opportunity to share knowledge and expertise to better position MECS moving forward, all while honouring Lynda’s legacy, and the great work she’s accomplished during her time with SFU and MECS,” remarks De Groot. 

We are excited to have Shannon De Groot as a part of our community and look forward to the great things she’ll accomplish as the new Director of MECS on all three of our campuses.