After 30 years, Gordon Dorrett is stepping down as CEO and president of Forrec, with Cale Heit taking over from October 2017.

Heit, who serves as executive vice president of operations at the experience design and architecture firm, started with Forrec as a landscape architect 25 years ago. He worked his way up through the ranks to lead the theme parks business before taking his current role.

Dorrett, who joined the company in 1985, will take a new role as executive director and devote more time to working with young designers. He will also focus on special projects at Forrec.

“Cale is an excellent example of our commitment to succession and promoting from within,” said Dorrett. “Cale has extensive relationships with clients and the entertainment industry, and has done an exceptional job managing our day-to-day operations. Because of his experience, this will be a seamless evolution. I expect no disruption to client or project management and I know he will inspire and energise our future.”

Heit will continue to build on Forrec’s reputation in entertainment design and drive the Toronto, Canada-based business forward.

“I’m delighted to be chosen for this role in a company that means so much to me,” said Heit. “I am truly excited about the future and respecting the legacy of Gordon Dorrett.

"Gord is one of the best in the business and I plan to build on his playbook by continuing to have great teams, customers, projects and partners, while still living up to the company’s core business, which is the business of fun.”