Donaghy, who also serves as group director, convention centres, of ASM Global (APAC) – the company that operates ICC Sydney – will depart his full-time role on 30 August, 2024, but will stay on as an advisor to the business until the end of the year.
During this transition period, ASM Global (APAC) will embed its succession strategy at ICC Sydney.
“It is with great pride that I reflect on the milestones of the past three decades,” says Donaghy.
“I want to express my appreciation to [ASM Global, APAC] executive chairman Harvey Lister AM for his commitment to the group’s advancement; group director, venue and event innovation, Rod Pilbeam; and our network of colleagues from around the world for their continued dedication and professionalism.
“Serving our teams, clients and community has been an absolute privilege.
“The team at ICC Sydney has achieved many accolades, but I am most immensely proud of our investment in the strength of our people, and our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
“I look forward to seeing these important legacies continued into the decades ahead.”
Under Donaghy’s leadership, ICC Sydney received 95 industry awards, achieving an average delegate satisfaction rating of 97.4 per cent and a 98.2 per cent client satisfaction rating.
ICC Sydney was the first convention centre to release a reconciliation action plan and a disability and inclusion action plan, and reach Silver Tier status in Pride in Diversity’s Australian Workplace Equality Index, among other leading campaigns such as its “Feeding your Performance” philosophy and client legacy program.
“On behalf of ASM Global, we thank Geoff for his outstanding leadership and dedication to the company and our people during his more than 30 years of service,” says Lister.
“Geoff Donaghy is one of ASM Global’s longest-serving executives, having contributed greatly to the establishment of key venues in our portfolio, including Cairns Convention Centre, Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, numerous venue management bids globally, and, of course, 10 years of extraordinary success at ICC Sydney.
“As CEO, Geoff and his ICC Sydney team have secured and operated events that have delivered almost $4 billion in economic impact for the state [NSW].
“His inspiring leadership is renowned for living up to the promise of ICC Sydney’s mission to make a difference – for one another, clients, community and the environment.
“Moreover, I recognise one of Geoff’s greatest achievements in successfully navigating ICC Sydney and our broader industry through the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
