He has been responsible for the development of industry-wide research and programs, including the release of the most comprehensive study on the economic impact of gaming in Canada, and the expansion of the industry's national annual conference, the Canadian Gaming Summit.

Mr. Burns' focus is on critical areas such as responsible gaming, addressing legislative and regulatory issues, and providing leadership on emerging issues. He is a seasoned public affairs practitioner with more than 20 years' experience in the private and public sectors.

Prior to his role with the CGA, Mr. Burns served as Corporate Compliance Officer for RPC Gaming, a Canadian-based gaming company that operated a chain of gaming establishments in Las Vegas, Nevada.  He also served as Vice President, Corporate Affairs, for RPC Anchor Gaming, and worked with the Government of Ontario to develop charity casinos in the province.

Mr. Burns specializes in policy development and implementation, and has held key policy roles at all levels of government.  As policy advisor to the Ontario Minister of Consumer and Commercial Relations, he directed government initiatives in the gaming sector that included the expansion of gaming in Ontario in such areas as the introduction of slots at racetracks.

Following his work with the province of Ontario, Mr. Burns served as Senior Advisor to the Mayor of Toronto, where he oversaw economic development and public transit issues.

He has also been a consultant with one of Canada's leading public affairs firm, where he advised clients on a range of public policy and procurement issues.

Mr. Burns is frequently asked to speak about the gaming industry at conferences and events both nationally and abroad.