Meetings and Events Australia (MEA) has announced a review of its operation and structure, in response to vast impacts COVID-19 is having on the industry.

Following the decision to postpone the national awards program and Evolve 2020, two positions on the MEA team have been impacted.

MEA has discontinued the roles of national events manager, held by Fran Barlow, and partnerships manager, held by Christopher Lazzari.

MEA CEO Robyn Johnson said she and the MEA board are devastated to lose two team members.

“The decisions were difficult to make, however, it was necessary to ensure the stability of the organisation,” she said.

“Fran and Christopher have been outstanding in responding to the news – a testament to their professionalism and we thank them for their incredible support and commitment to the industry.”

Johnson confirmed members’ investment in MEA will be shifted into “managing the immediate needs of providing education, support, information and lobbying government for a support package”.

‘Stay positive and focused’

In the wake of the COVID-19 crisis, MEA is urging businesses to stay positive and focused on the future.

“Many companies across the industry are having to make similar decisions to keep their organisations operating so they can get through this and it’s important for business owners and staff to stay positive and focused in these incredibly difficult times,” she said.

“As the sector bounces back, we will be ready.”

Any queries on MEA’s events or partnerships can be directed to Robyn Johnson.