The Australian Business Events Association, the newly formed peak body for the business events industry announces its board of directors and launches its new logo in the lead-up to its official launch on 3 July 2023.
With a focus on supporting members of all sizes from large corporations to small businesses, the composition of the board of well-regarded industry and business leaders from all areas of the country signals its goal to foster growth and innovation within the industry.
Peter King, Chair of ABEA said each of the newly appointed directors are well positioned to drive the new association forward, direct the advocacy and facilitate the delivery of services with the aim of ensuring members thrive.
“We have assembled an exceptional calibre of committed directors who are renowned leaders in their own right,” said King of his six fellow board members.
“Together we will drive the policy, advocacy and research agenda, as well as effective members services.”
Matt Pearce, CEO and co-founder of Talk2 Media & Events has been appointed as Deputy Chair. He is joined at the helm by Janet Hamilton, General Manager of the Cairns Convention Centre; Nigel Keen, General Manager of the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre (PCEC); Michael Matthews, CEO of Canberra Convention Bureau; Julia Swanson, CEO of the Melbourne Convention Bureau and Nicole Walker, Managing Director of Arinex.
The seven inaugural Board of Directors have all paid a critical role in establishing the Australian Business Events Association. The board will increase to 11 positions with a formal process to recruit an additional four directors to commence shortly.
The Australian Business Events Association has also revealed its new logo – a contemporary icon of bold, impactful colours, reflecting the importance of human connection, the diverse areas of the industry working together, and the perpetual forward momentum desired for the industry and its members.
Matt Pearce has been a driving force behind the new organisation and is focused on the growth potential of the industry.
“With the drive of an all-encompassing entity like the Australian Business Events Association to highlight and promote the sector, we have the opportunity to represent our expertise, talent and technical innovations to a national and international audience.”
Janet Hamilton has held Board positions in industry, tourism and arts organisations.
“I’ve spent my entire career working in all facets of the industry and am acutely aware of its needs and the challenges it faces. I plan on applying the full extent of my knowledge to support the range of businesses and individuals that constitute the sector, to drive success and prosperity for our members.”
The Australian Business Events Association was formed through the collaboration of the Association of Australian Convention Bureaux (AACB), the Australian Convention Centres Group (ACCG), and the Exhibition & Events Association of Australasia Ltd (EEAA) and is due to launch on the 3 July 2023.
An independent committee has been tasked with the search for a CEO, the post has been advertised and the Association hopes to make an appointment by early July.
