Retail Design Institute Canada Chapter Announces Election of New Chapter Officers for 2025–2027 Term
- Retail Design Institute
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
The Retail Design Institute’s Canada Chapter is pleased to announce the election and appointment of its new Chapter Officers, who will lead the Chapter beginning November 1, 2025, through October 31, 2027.
This leadership team brings together experienced professionals and emerging voices committed to advancing retail design across Canada, fostering education, innovation, and collaboration within the design community nationwide.
President: Paola Marques, RDI, President + Strategic/Design Director, Studio Ormonde Marques
A Professional Member since 2023, Paola continues in her role as Chapter President after serving an interim term.
“The Institute plays a key role in driving our industry’s growth through its core mission and diverse initiatives. Over the past months, I’ve only scratched the surface of our potential and, with more time, can continue to grow membership through a strategic plan that involves team building and hosting hybrid events that focus on RDI’s pillars while supporting the industry through meaningful connections.
I bring years of experience working with retail brands and property developers on large-scale retail developments. This broader exposure will help expand RDI’s visibility in our market and strengthen our community,” said Marques.
Vice President: Tracy Ho, RDI, Business Development, Aligned Vision Group
A Professional Member since 2021, Tracy has been re-elected for a second term as Vice President.
“I am honoured to be re-elected as Vice President of the Retail Design Institute Canada for the 2025–2027 term. Over the past two years, I’ve been proud to help foster collaboration, spark dialogue, and build connections within our vibrant community of designers, architects, and partners. Looking ahead, my vision is to strengthen our Chapter’s role as a hub for thought leadership, mentorship, and innovation,” said Ho.
Secretary: Ashwin Raman, RDI, Principal and Founder, Ramans Design Services Inc.
A Professional Member since 2025, Ashwin was appointed by the current board to serve as Secretary for the upcoming term.
As the Principal and Founder of Ramans Design Services Inc., he brings strong leadership, design expertise, and a collaborative spirit to the Canada Chapter.
Treasurer: Chris Henderson, Trade RDI, Vice President of Sales and Business Development, Visual Elements
A Trade Member since 2023, Chris has agreed to continue his term as Treasurer until a new candidate is selected.
A long-time industry leader, Chris brings deep experience in retail fabrication, vendor relations, and partnership development, ensuring the Chapter’s operations remain financially transparent and well-supported.
The Retail Design Institute congratulates the Canada Chapter Officers on their election and appointments, and thanks them for their ongoing leadership and commitment to fostering collaboration and advancing the practice of retail design throughout Canada.
About the Retail Design Institute
The Retail Design Institute is a global 501(c)(6) organization dedicated to advancing the practice and collaborative craft of creating selling environments. Through its Chapters, The Institute provides opportunities for education, mentorship, and networking for professionals and students in retail design and related disciplines.
I appreciate the focus on mentorship and community building — it’s that same spirit of sharing and improvement that keeps even Geometry Dash Lite players coming back to refine their timing and design their own levels. Collaboration truly drives progress, in any field.