McDonald started with MEA in mid-2021, taking on the role at perhaps the most difficult time the events industry has ever been through.
“On behalf of the MEA board, I’d like to thank Peter for his service to MEA and the industry over the last three years,” said MEA’s board chair, Vanessa Green.
“During a challenging period, Peter has been a stable and trusted executive officer, ensuring we’ve been able to serve our members and the industry through a time of upheaval.
“Our vision is to ‘lead, empower and connect’ – Peter’s leadership has provided a platform to deliver on this mission and one that we look forward to continuing to expand upon.
“We have a bright future ahead, with all the board members and leadership team united in our drive to create a dynamic and engaged association for our members.”
In its statement announcing McDonald’s resignation, the association said “a change in leadership represents an opportunity to build upon past success, while evolving to better support member needs”.
MEA has already opened applications for a new CEO.
“Under challenging circumstances including the global COVID pandemic and subsequent recovery period, I leave knowing I have led and served MEA with full commitment and as best I’ve been able,” said McDonald.
“I’m proud to have overseen Evolve come back to life with year on year improvement in delegate satisfaction, and the reinstatement of the industry’s most prestigious awards program.
“I’ve consolidated the organisation’s financial performance by delivering three consecutive financial year positive results, returning the FY end balance sheet to ‘black’.
“With MEA’s 50th anniversary year approaching, a new leader’s fresh enthusiasm and energy will well serve the business’ next chapter,” he said.
