ICC Sydney’s senior business development manager for exhibitions and international, Mantellato is one of three vice chairs for the chapter, with Joon How Loy from IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Centre in Thailand appointed first vice chair and Gordon Payne from Hyve China Events Service in Beijing also selected as vice chair. The chair of the APAC chapter is Rita Chu from Adsale Exhibition Services in Hong Kong
“Our regional chapters are at the heart of what UFI does: connecting our global community and ensuring our members’ voices are heard in every corner of the world,” said Panittha Buri, president of UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry.
“I warmly congratulate all newly elected chairs and vice-chairs, and extend my sincere thanks to those stepping down for their dedication and service. I look forward to working alongside them as we continue to strengthen our industry together.”
Mantellato will hold the vice chair position for three years. She is also active in the industry association space in Australia, as the chair of the NSW chapter of the Australian Business Events Association (ABEA). She was also previously on the board of the Exhibitions and Events Association of Australasia (EEAA), before it folded in support of the launch of ABEA.
“Helen’s appointment as Vice Chair of the UFI APAC Chapter recognises her outstanding leadership and long‑standing contribution to the events and exhibitions industry,” said ICC Sydney CEO, Adam Mather-Brown.
“Her experience and strategic insight will be invaluable to the region, and we are proud to see her represent Australia and ICC Sydney on the global stage.”
In her new role, Mantellato will help develop ideas for the exhibition industry in Asia Pacific and encourage collaboration between members of the association.
“I’m deeply honoured to be appointed UFI vice chair of the asia pacific chapter,” she said.
“It’s a privilege to contribute to a community that has shaped my career and continues to inspire me.
“Thank you to my colleagues, mentors and the wider exhibitions and events sector for their support. I look forward to working with UFI and our regional leaders to help strengthen and elevate our industry across the region.”
