Re-elected board member Matt Pearce (pictured, above) joins new directors Gareth Martin and Dan Londero, together with board-appointed Rocky Bruzzano, in bringing a wealth of industry experience and expertise to ABEA’s leadership.
“We had an exceptional number of candidates who all put up their hands to be part of the ABEA board,” says ABEA chair Peter King.
“The members came out in force to vote, and their voices have been heard.
“We wish to thank everyone who took part. The members have chosen highly skilled and dedicated professionals to help lead the organisation into its next phase.”
Matt Pearce, CEO and co-founder of Talk2Media and Events, will continue to serve as deputy chair and represent organisers.
Gareth Martin, CEO of Business Events Perth, will ensure ongoing representation for Western Australia as he becomes the bureau sector representative.
Dan Londero, CEO and co-founder of Turnkey Event Solutions, brings 30 years of global business experience across Australia, China and UK.
He represents small business interests and suppliers.
Rocky Bruzzano, managing director of Exponet, has two decades of experience as a CFO and has extensive knowledge in corporate finance. He will lead the finance subcommittee, contributing his strategic acumen to ABEA’s financial oversight.
Amy Saleh, operations director at Hannover Fairs Australia and current chair of the Emerging Leaders Council, will serve as ABEA’s first Emerging Leader Board Observer.
This role, without voting rights, is designed to provide new perspectives while cultivating future board leaders.
Amy will help establish selection criteria for this position in the coming years.
These new additions join Samantha Glass, Penny Lion, Leo Jago, Nicole Walker and Julia Swanson to form ABEA’s board of directors.
The outgoing board members are Nigel Keen, previously general manager of Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, and Michael Matthews, CEO of Canberra Convention Bureau.
Janet Hamilton, general manager of Cairns Convention Centre, stepped down from the ABEA board earlier in 2024.
