Mark Wilson’s exceptional career in Calgary’s hospitality industry spans four decades and continues to shape Alberta's tourism sector. Combining expertise, vision and community-minded leadership, he's committed to helping others succeed.
Photography by 2C Media
Mark Wilson
Hospitality Management '84
General Manager and Vice President, Hotel Arts Group
Mark Wilson entered his chosen industry at the ripe old age of 11. As a preteen, he bussed tables at The Empress Hotel and scooped ice cream at his mother’s sweet shop. He worked his way up to becoming a senior executive, managing some of Calgary’s top hotels and playing an integral role in the opening of major establishments including the Hyatt Regency Calgary. He has served on the board and as Chair of Tourism Calgary and the Calgary Hotel Association, and has served on SAIT’s Hospitality and Tourism Advisory Council. Today, as General Manager/VP and Partner with Hotel Arts Group, his landmark portfolio includes Hotel Arts in Victoria Park and the Kensington Riverside Inn.
Wilson says his mother was a huge influence. “She was my entrepreneurial mentor. She really did teach me how to work hard and to value relationships with staff and co-workers.”
After juggling hotel jobs through school, Wilson chose his post-secondary path — Hospitality and Tourism Management. Not only was it a deep academic dive into the hospitality business, but SAIT also led to Wilson’s big break when, in 1984, a faculty member recommended him to the Westin Hotel. It was home to the Owl’s Nest, Calgary’s premier dining room, and Wilson rose from bartender to Maître D’ of the city’s top eatery at just 24 years old.
“I managed a staff of highly experienced 40- and 50-year-old waiters from Europe and served CEOs of oil companies. I learned humility and how to build trust. It was just an amazing experience that I've always taken with me.”
A born and raised Calgarian, Wilson helps build community by mentoring students and strengthening SAIT’s industry partnerships within the hospitality sector, advancing projects including the redevelopment of Stampede Park, raising millions for men’s health and coaching his children’s sports teams.
After decades in the hotel and restaurant business, Wilson has some advice for SAIT students on the cusp of their careers. “Demonstrate perseverance, passion and integrity in what you do. Treat people the way you want to be treated. Always take the high road and don’t burn bridges. I've had 14 jobs in six companies, and I never burned a bridge.”
How to drink good tequila
Discover a hidden ritual as LINK explores the art of tequila tasting with Mark Wilson.
Oki, Âba wathtech, Danit'ada, Tawnshi, Hello.
SAIT is located on the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of Treaty 7 which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina and the Îyârhe Nakoda of Bearspaw, Chiniki and Goodstoney.
We are situated in an area the Blackfoot tribes traditionally called Moh’kinsstis, where the Bow River meets the Elbow River. We now call it the city of Calgary, which is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta.