Smith’s win is a global one, with just one Young Leader of the Year selected from SITE’s worldwide presence.
Smith said he was “incredibly honoured” to have received the inaugural award.
“More than anything, I’m proud of what I’ve achieved and deeply grateful to my team at DNA and the entire SITE community, both in the ANZ chapter and globally.
“The support, mentorship and connections within SITE have been invaluable, and I look forward to continuing to grow and contribute to this amazing industry.”
Smith started in his family’s company DNA Events and Travel as an event and pitch coordinator in 2019 and rose to be a director of the company two years ago.
He is also the current treasurer for the Australia and New Zealand SITE chapter.
micenet asked Smith for some exclusive insight into his career so far to understand the moments that have shaped it.
“One of my most rewarding career highlights was executing two back-to-back incentive programs in Italy (Milan and Rome) and then in Dubai and Oman, each for 60 people over seven days,” Smith told micenet.
“Delivering these complex, high-end experiences in 2022, right after the global lockdowns, was both a challenge and a defining achievement.
“Navigating ever-changing travel restrictions, supplier uncertainties and the heightened expectations of clients waiting years for these experiences made it an intense but incredibly fulfilling journey. Seeing the guests reconnect, engage and be inspired by these stunning destinations reminded me of the true power of incentive travel.
“Another major highlight has been joining the SITE ANZ Board.
“SITE has played an instrumental role in my professional development, offering me access to mentorship, industry insights and a global network of like-minded professionals.
“Being given the opportunity to give back to this community, especially after receiving so much support during some of the most challenging times in my career, has been an honour.
“It has allowed me to contribute to the growth of the industry while continuing to learn from some of the best in the business.”
We also asked him about the moments that have shaped his career.
“One of the most pivotal moments in my career came in 2023 when I stepped into a leadership role within my family’s business following my father’s passing.
“Family businesses come with their own complexities, and while I had always been involved, taking on a leadership position during such an emotional and transitional period was a defining experience.
“It tested my resilience, leadership and ability to balance personal loss with professional responsibility.
“Despite the challenges, it has been one of my most rewarding experiences, allowing me to continue and build upon my father’s legacy.
“Another defining moment was navigating the business through the aftermath of COVID-19.
“Like many in the events and travel industry, we faced immense uncertainty. Instead of just rebuilding, we took the opportunity to strengthen our business model, innovate and adapt to the evolving landscape of incentive travel and events.”
