Beverley Williamson has been appointed to the role of chairperson for the BestCities Global Alliance strategic business development (SBD) group.
Williamson, who is currently the general manager of business development and bids at Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB), will take over from Karina Lance of Dubai Tourism, who had been the chair since May 2017.
Playing an important role in further growing BestCities’ impact and its reputation, Williamson brings to the role more than 25 years in the business tourism and events industries.
In her role at MCB, Beverley oversees the international bidding, international and national business development, government relations, convention services and corporate meetings and incentives teams, as well as MCB’s international offices in London, Washington D.C. Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur.
Paul Vallee, managing director of BestCities Global Alliance, said: “We’re very pleased to welcome Beverley Williamson as the new chairperson of the SBD, as she takes over from Karina Lance.
“Karina played a major role in developing tactical marketing initiatives and provided strong and focused strategic leadership. We thank her for her time and hard work.
“Beverley will have a vital part to play in developing strategic plans and partnerships, and strengthening the relationship and engagement between the SBD and clients and alliance cities.”
Commenting on her appointment, Williamson said: “I’m delighted to be taking up the position of chairperson of the SBD and will work to strengthen the BestCities brand both globally and regionally, ensuring that alliance cities continue to focus on sharing knowledge and information.
“I look forward to working with BestCities board chair Corne Koch to strengthen collaboration between the SBD and board.
“I’d like to thank Karina Lance for her tireless hard work over the last two years and wish her all the very best for the future.”
Williamson takes up her position at an exciting time for BestCities, as the alliance prepares for its fourth annual BestCities Global Forum, taking place this December in Copenhagen, as well as running the Incredible Impacts Grant program, in partnership with ICCA, for the third year running.
