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Australian Business Events Association has appointed Angie Becker from the Victorian Convention and Event Trust, to their Board effective immediately. Becker takes up the venue representative position made vacant by Samantha Glass, recently of ICC Sydney.

Currently serving as Chief Sales and Customer Experience Officer overseeing Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, Becker brings over two decades of experience in hotels, hospitality and events.

Natalie O’Brien, Chief Executive of Victorian Convention and Event Trust said Becker has a strong track record in transformational leadership and notes “Angie is an exceptional leader who delivers fantastic experiences for our customers. She brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of driving innovation, growth and success in the events industry, and will be a great addition to the ABEA Board.”

Two positions on the ABEA Board are up for renomination prior to the AGM in November, as Julia Swanson of Melbourne Convention Bureau and Nicole Walker of Arinex, have elected to step aside due to personal and professional commitments.

Peter King, Chair of ABEA, acknowledged the enormous contribution of the outgoing board members sharing “Samantha Glass has made an indelible contribution to ABEA as Board Director, as well as Chair of the Sustainability Special Interest Group. She has spearheaded a collegial approach to knowledge sharing and sustainable practices.

“Nicole Walker, as the previous Chair of EEAA was instrumental in the unification of the industry under ABEA. She worked tirelessly and generously for the benefit of us all; her stewardship has been a driving force.

“Julia Swanson’s impact as Board Director has been enduring. She was instrumental in the development of the ABEA strategy and getting the organisation up and running. She is an incredible advocate and passionate spokesperson for the industry.

“All three have made major personal and professional contributions to ABEA and the industry, and we sincerely thank them for their time and commitment.

“We will be making more appointments shortly. In business events, we are lucky - there is no shortage of talent or will to serve.”

ABEA Chief Executive Melissa Brown and Peter King have completed a national roadshow of ‘Member Connect’ sessions whereby they met with members in WA, NSW, VIC, QLD, NT, ACT and SA.

King added “our key take out is that the industry is in very good shape. The common themes around the need for professional development, data and research, advocacy and support for managing multi-generational workforces will be reflected in our education program and national conference agenda.”

The ABEA Conference will be held in Melbourne on 4th and 5th December 2025. Registration and Venue announcement coming soon.

Image. Angie Becker, Chief Sales and Customer Experience Officer, Victorian Convention and Event Trust

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