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The Venue Management Association (VMA) has announced that Mark Zundans CVE, General Manager of The Gabba, has been named as the new Chair of its Venue Management School (VMS). Bringing over 25 years of experience in the venue industry to the role, Zundans has held senior positions in venues across Australia and overseen a range of major international sporting and entertainment events.

With a career spanning stadia, arenas, race tracks and community recreation facilities, his extensive expertise in venue operations, event delivery, contract management and venue design has made him a leading figure in the venue management field.

Having graduated from the VMS in 2003 and achieving his CVE qualification in 2015, Zundans is a passionate advocate for the development of venue management professionals. His involvement with the VMA as a Board Member for five years, along with his active participation with the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM), makes him the ideal choice to lead the Venue Management School’s next chapter.

Announcing the appointment, VMA Chief Executive, Joel Edmondson stated “we are thrilled to have Mark Zundans CVE as the new Chair of the Venue Management School.

“His deep knowledge of the industry and unwavering commitment to professional development will ensure that the VMS continues to evolve and lead the way in venue management education. I would also like to express my gratitude to Mark for stepping into this important role, and I look forward to seeing him lead the program over the next three years.”

Zundans will work closely with the VMS Committee, comprising eight other industry experts:

• Andrew Travis AVM, Chief Executive, AXS Australia Group, and Dean of VMA’s The Leadership Institute
• Adam Lister, Group General Counsel, ASM Global Asia-Pacific
• Nelita Byrne AVM, Venue Manager, Tauranga City Council
• Sue Max, ASM Global Asia-Pacific
• Donna Price, GM People, Culture and Community, Carlton Football Club
• Meg Walker, Group Director - Arena Operations, ASM Global Asia-Pacific, VMA Board Director, and Chair of The Professional Development Committee

Two additional committee members to be announced soon.

Together, the committee will continue to evolve and deliver the world-renowned two-year program that has been providing exceptional venue management education for 30 years. With more than 1,000 graduates across the Asia-Pacific region, the Venue Management School remains an invaluable resource for professionals in all sectors of the venue industry, including stadia, arenas, conventions, performing arts, racetracks, showgrounds and more.

Zundans commented “I am excited to take on the role of Chair and contribute to the ongoing success of the Venue Management School.

“The program has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of our industry, and I am committed to ensuring that the VMS remains at the forefront of venue management education, providing students with the skills and connections they need to thrive.”

Applications now open for Venue Management School 2025 Intake
The Venue Management School is now accepting applications for its 2025 intake. This program provides students with an exceptional opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the venue industry through a combination of case studies, industry best-practice examples, group discussions, and real-world problem-solving.

Click here for more information.

Early bird tickets for 32nd Asia-Pacific Venue Industry Congress
The VMA has also announced that early-bird tickets the 32nd Asia-Pacific Venue Industry Congress being held at ICC Sydney from 22nd to 24th June.

Click here for more information in the Australasian Leisure Management industry Calendar.

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