ABEA strengthens its national representation with new appointments

Aimed at solidifying its team and strengthening its national representation, the Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) has appointed three new Council Chairs and introduced a new Membership Manager.

The recently appointed Council Chairs will take over the roles representing Tasmania, the Northern Territory, and the sector pillar Venues, ensuring the full spectrum of leadership necessary to reflect the diverse needs and expertise of the industry.

ABEA also welcomes new Membership Manager Hayley Beveridge. Complementing the secretariat team, Beveridge brings over 15 years of business events industry experience. Her global involvement in securing high-profile events and forging key partnerships will be an asset to managers and the wider ABEA network.   

Melissa Brown, Chief Executive Australian Business Events Association noted “Hayley takes on a critical role in our team, focused on bringing new members into the ABEA community, providing support through member services, and driving value for members nationally.

Of the new Chairs, Brown said these appointments reflect the calibre of the national network and active participation from all corners of the business events industry adding “we have a full suite of leaders representing our community in every sector and region. Their combined experience and knowledge are hugely valuable and will help us drive the business events agenda across all sectors, states and territories in Australia.

“We recognise the exceptional leadership of our outgoing Council Chairs, Marnie Craig (Tasmania), Peter Savoff (Northern Territory) and Nigel Keen (Venues). Their dedication was instrumental in establishing the Councils and driving momentum in ABEA’s first year of operation.’

Incoming Council Chairs:

Tasmanian Council Chair: Alfred Merse, Conference Sales Manager at Federal Group. With 40 years’ experience in tourism and business events, Merse bring extensive connections of the region, and is a driver of the Tasmanian industry.

Northern Territory Chair: Jessie Rayson, General Manager of Fusion Exhibitions. With extensive expertise in delivering high-quality, customised event solutions, Jessie is perfectly positioned to boost the Northern Territory’s prominence within the national business events arena.

Venues Chair: Sarah Goldfinch, General Manager at Adelaide Convention Centre. For nearly 30 years Sarah’s strategic leadership has directed the success of major venues, and advanced business events throughout South Australia.  

ABEA represents the dynamic world of business events. ABEA enhances member’s success and elevates the industry at large through strategic advocacy, research, community development and community.