NABS-BEC, the charity that supports the Canadian media and advertising industry, has announced the appointment of two new directors. Jennifer Hawtin and Kathy Marquis will move into the roles for the national and Quebec “Media Sale” initiatives, respectively.

Hawtin and Marquis’ industry knowledge, combined with a deep passion for the cause, will play a vital role in the growth of “Media Sale,” the charity’s largest annual fundraiser, NABS-BEC said in a release.

Hawtin has spent more than 19 years in multimedia sales in a number of senior key account roles. “NABS has been supporting the Canadian ad industry for decades, so having the chance to head up the ‘Media Sale’ was a no-brainer,” she says. “It’s an opportunity not only for me to support the community, but to encourage others to do so as well.”

Marquis has worked in media sales for more than 15 years and is the host of the Quebec-based podcast, Generation Sidechick, dedicated to celebrating the experience of the modern woman.

When asked why she chose to bring her talents to the Quebec “Media Sale, Marquis said: “I love NABS-BEC because it’s a charity for our industry and by our industry. When I was offered the opportunity to be part of such a critical fundraising effort for them, I was thrilled to say yes.”

The annual “Media Sale” receives donations of multi-platform inventory from almost all Canadian media companies, with donations from Bell Media, Rogers and Corus Entertainment, among others. The funds generated from the sale go to supporting the charities’ pillars of short-term financial aid, career coaching and wellness resources for all members of the Canadian advertising and media industry, the charity says.

NABS-BEC says the addition of Hawtin and Marquis to the fundraising team reflects the wider importance of the annual fundraiser, particularly at such a challenging time for the industry.

“We’ve seen overall requests for support increase by double digits since September 2024,” managing director Rosetta Heckhausen says. “Many who are getting in touch have been affected by the various layoffs that have been plaguing the industry over the past few years, and they are looking to NABS-BEC for support. The Media Sale is absolutely critical, as the money raised goes directly to those in our community who need it most. Jennifer and Kathy, with their extensive combined experience, will be huge assets to the team.”