ICC Sydney promotes Rachael Tsicalas
Sydney’s convention centre has promoted Rachael Tsicalas to senior manager of business development for national associations.
Her promotion from business development manager sees her lead the dedicated national associations team.
Tsicalas joined ICC Sydney in 2023 and has two decades of experience in the events industry, having worked for the likes of the Keystone Group, Dedes Group and Luna Park Sydney.
“Rachael brings extensive industry experience and a deep passion for the association sector, recognising the vital role these organisations play in our communities,” said ICC Sydney’s deputy chief executive officer and chief commercial officer, Beverley Parker.
“With Rachael and her team working collaboratively alongside our valued national association professionals, ICC Sydney is well-positioned to drive meaningful outcomes and lasting impact.”
New leadership at Kaigi Conferencing and Events
The torch is being passed at Kaigi Conferencing and Events.
Gina Shaw and Rachael Sinclair are taking over the leadership and ownership of the company from Tricia Hopkins, who founded the business in 2013.
“Kaigi has an incredible legacy, and we are honoured to carry it forward,” said Shaw.
“Our focus will be on maintaining the exceptional standards that clients and partners have come to know and trust, while also positioning the company to capitalise on opportunities of the future.”
Between the pair, they have around 35 years of experience in the events industry.
New GM for Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach
Matt Andraws is taking the helm at Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach.
Andraws moves over from Sofitel Melbourne on Collins, where he has been since 2018, with a couple of secondments to other Accor properties during that time.
Bringing over 25 years of experience to his new general manager role on the Gold Coast, Andraws has also previously held roles with InterContinental and Wyndham Hotels and Resorts.
While at the Sofitel in Melbourne as hotel manager, he oversaw $22 million worth of upgrades to the property and led it to a record financial performance while maintaining high scores for employee engagement.
“Matt’s appointment reflects our commitment to placing dynamic and forward-thinking leaders at the helm of our hotels,” said David Fraser, vice president of operations in the Pacific for Accor’s Sofitel, MGallery and Emblems brands.
“Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach holds an iconic position on the Gold Coast, combining French zest with Queensland’s coastal charm. With his proven record in delivering performance and his passion for people, Matt is perfectly positioned to guide the hotel into an exciting new era.”
Alongside 296 rooms, Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach has 13 event spaces, with its largest being the 312m2 Grand Ballroom.
Singapore Tourism Board appoints new executive director for Oceania
Dr Edward Koh will lead the charge to attract more travellers from Australia and New Zealand to Singapore, as the new executive director for Singapore Tourism Board in Oceania.
Koh moves to the role from his position with Singapore Tourism Board as head of its conventions, meetings and incentive travel division. He has been with the organisation since 2006.
“Oceania is an important region for Singapore, and it’s heartening to see that visitor arrivals from Australia and New Zealand continue to be strong,” said Koh.
“I look forward to deepening ties with our industry and trade partners, sharing the wide variety of experiences Singapore has to offer with Aussie and Kiwi travellers, and strengthening the city’s reputation as a hub of culture, innovation and world-class events.”
Starting November 1, Koh’s new role will seem him helm the marketing effort to draw both business and leisure travellers to Singapore.
