Angie Becker from the Victorian Convention and Event Trust (VCET) has replaced Samantha Glass on the board, following the departure of Glass from ICC Sydney.
Becker is chief sales and customer experience officer for VCET, overseeing both the longstanding Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and the under-construction Nyaal Banyal Geelong Convention and Event Centre, which is due to open next year.
“Angie is an exceptional leader who delivers fantastic experiences for our customers,” said VCET CEO, Natalie O’Brien AM.
“She brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of driving innovation, growth and success in the events industry and will be a great addition to the ABEA board.”
Chair of the ABEA board, Peter King, paid tribute to Glass following her departure.
“Samantha Glass has made an indelible contribution to ABEA as board director, as well as chair of the Sustainability Special Interest Group,” he said. “She has spearheaded a collegial approach to knowledge sharing and sustainable practices.”
Meanwhile, two other board positions will also be filled prior to the association’s AGM in November, with both Melbourne Convention Bureau’s CEO, Julia Swanson, and former Arinex CEO, Nicole Walker, stepping away from board duties.
“Nicole Walker, as the previous chair of EEAA was instrumental in the unification of the industry under ABEA,” said King.
“She worked tirelessly and generously for the benefit of us all; her stewardship has been a driving force.
“Julia Swanson’s impact as board director has been enduring. She was instrumental in the development of the ABEA strategy and getting the organisation up and running.
“She is an incredible advocate and passionate spokesperson for the industry.
“All three have made major personal and professional contributions to ABEA and the industry and we sincerely thank them for their time and commitment,” said King of Glass, Swanson and Walker.
