Marco Smits is a seasoned communications professional with extensive experience working with all levels of government. As part of the Eastern Ontario Regional Network (EORN) team, Marco plays a key role in Indigenous consultation. Building respectful and collaborative relationships with Indigenous leaders, communities and organizations to ensure that EORN’s projects align with Indigenous priorities and needs is an important part of his role. His work focuses on ensuring open communication, consultation and engagement in EORN’s major infrastructure projects, including the $300 million Cell Gap Project.
Marco has received specialized training in Indigenous relations, crisis communications, public engagement and municipal affairs. He also holds a bachelor of arts degree in Physical Education and Sports Sciences from the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences. Passionate about sports, Marco has worked on a freelance basis at seven Olympic Games and he was awarded an Emmy for his work as an Associate Producer/Researcher at the 2022 Beijing Olympics with NBC Universal.
Growing up in the Netherlands, Marco is always planning his next trip, having travelled in more than 65 countries. He loves the Canadian outdoors and birding and frequently ventures out on backcountry trips with his wife and two rescue dogs.