Kyle and Carolyn Nixon named Kelowna’s business and community leaders of the year

Kyle and Carolyn Nixon of Nixon Hospitality Group have been named joint recipients of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Business and Community Leader of the Year award.

The chamber announced the winners Wednesday, following a unanimous decision by its independent judging panel.

CEO Ester Pike says the couple have built a successful hospitality business while making a significant contribution to the community. Nixon Hospitality Group now employs more than 500 people and serves residents and visitors throughout the region.

Both Nixons grew up in Kelowna and graduated from Kelowna Secondary School. Kyle’s hospitality career began at the Hotel Eldorado, where his parents, Jim and Diana Nixon, took ownership in 1989.

Originally built in 1926, the historic hotel was saved from demolition, moved by barge to its current Cook Road location and rebuilt following a fire in 1989. It reopened in 1990.

Kyle started as a janitor and dishwasher before becoming director of food and beverage and eventually a partner. The family sold the hotel in 2014. The Eldorado celebrated its 100th anniversary this year.

Kyle was named to the chamber’s Top 40 Under 40 program in 2016 and received a Top 40 Over 40 honour in 2025.

The Business and Community Leader of the Year award recognizes business achievement and contributions to the community.