Chairman of the Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau (MCVB), Chris Barlow, announced today (Wednesday 6 July)  that he had officially accepted the resignation of Chief Executive Officer, Sandra Chipchase.

“Sandra has given us five years of exceptional service and we should all be pleased for her as she takes the next big step in her career,” Barlow said.

“During her tenure, Sandra has achieved some outstanding results for Melbourne, the most recent of which were recognised in April with two national Meetings and Events Australia (MEA) Hall of Fame inductions for ‘Destination Marketing Organisation’ and ‘Exhibition of the Year’ for the Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME).
 

Sandra Chipchase has stepped down from her role as CEO at the MCVB.

“Sandra was also acknowledged with the National MEA Outstanding Contribution to Industry Award at the same event.

“On behalf of the Board, I thank Sandra for her tremendous contribution to Melbourne and Victoria and her assistance in effecting a smooth transition.”

Tourism and Major Events Minister Louise Asher also acknowledged the significant contribution made by Chipchase.

“Over the last five years, Sandra has developed a strong Business Events platform for Melbourne and has delivered some of the largest Business Events for Victoria,” Asher said.

“A key component to Sandra’s vision was enhancing Melbourne’s reputation as a Business Events destination and its partnership with the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

“Under Sandra’s leadership, Melbourne’s international profile has been strengthened by securing events which not only bring large numbers of delegates to the state but also go a long way to enhancing Melbourne’s credentials as a business and scientific hub.

“Of course it was with mixed emotions that I received the news of Sandra’s departure. Sandra’s dedication and commitment has been outstanding and places Melbourne in a strong position to continue to grow its Business Events industry.

“Next year 4,000 delegates are set to come to Melbourne for the Amway India Leadership Seminar followed by 12,000 delegates in 2013 for the 22nd World Diabetes Congress.

“These events really put Melbourne and Victoria on the global stage and deliver significant economic benefits for the entire state.”

In thanking Sandra for her contribution, Asher said whilst she wishes Sandra well in her future endeavours, Victoria will be looking to capitalise on its strong position to secure more events and economic benefits for Victoria.

Barlow added, “We have commenced the recruitment process for our next CEO and the Board is working with Sandra on the implementation of a transition plan prior to her departure.”