New Faces to Lead VMA

The newly elected VMA Council took office as of 7th May at the annual Asia Pacific Venue Industry Congress and Showcase in Auckland, New Zealand.

Steve Romer, Director of Operations at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre was elected President for the next 12 months.

Speaking of his appointment, Romer stated, "I have the honour and privilege after six years on Council to be elected President of the VMA.

"I look forward to serving our membership over the next twelve months and will ensure that the VMA continues to deliver the many wonderful benefits to our membership at large. The VMA is already in a strong position both financially and operationally and I look forward to further strengthening our affiliation with the International Association of Assembly Managers (IAAM)."

Romer paid tribute to the leadership and vision provided by immediate past President Rod Pilbeam, Executive Director of AEG Ogden, who has served the role of President for four years.

"I am especially delighted that Rod has been elected to the Executive Committee in the role of Treasurer so we can benefit from his wide experience and expertise as we move into a new development phase of exciting programs and added services to members. This is essential in creating the continuity of programs that Rod has implemented during his tenure", added Romer.

"Together with the executive direction of the association headed by Executive Officer, John Benett and his team of highly professional administrators, Zena O'Shannessy, Debi Chalmers, Maria Lamari and Irena York, the VMA is in a sound position to achieve these goals".

Other Councillors elected as executive office bearers at the same time are:

• Vice President - Lee Kessler (Sydney Entertainment Centre)
• Brian Morris - Secretary (MOPT)
• Rod Pilbeam - Treasurer (AEG Ogden)
• Monique Marks - Executive Committee member (Blue Tongue Stadium, Gosford)
• Steve Hevern - Executive Committee member (AEG Ogden)