Shaping the next era at ICC Sydney

Written by Apr 2, 2025Spice News

With more than 36 years in events and hospitality, including 20 years with ASM Global, I’ve held leadership positions at five major convention centres worldwide. During the past decade, I served as general manager at ICC Sydney, where I witnessed first-hand the powerful impact business events have on society.

I’m no stranger to the challenges facing us, and I’m deeply committed to the extraordinary people addressing these global challenges, alongside our dedicated team which aids and stages their progress.

Together with ICC Sydney’s leadership team, and deputy CEO and director of business development, Beverley Parker – who has an innate understanding of local and international markets – we focus on one goal: ensuring client success, because their success defines ours.

Inclusive, future-focused approach to an evolving events industry

The business events industry is navigating complexities arising from changing geopolitical conditions, the climate crisis and economic inflation. As these factors evolve, we must actively engage the next generation of team members, organisers and attendees.

Key to this effort is fostering inclusivity, ensuring a welcoming environment in which respect and openness are embedded into our culture, not just our facilities. By remaining forward-thinking, adaptable and committed to delivering curated, inclusive event experiences, we can continue driving innovation and creating meaningful, impactful experiences.

ICC Sydney’s culture of innovation

ICC Sydney thrives as an incubator of innovation, staying ahead by implementing state-of-the-art technology, data-driven operations and world-class service. From cleaning and line-marking robots, to a partnership with UTS students to trial the “Pepper” robot for enhanced customer support, we continually push the boundaries to meet our client’s needs.

Additionally, our audiovisual team has transformed the Darling Harbour Theatre into a digital canvas for immersive content, while upgrades in connectivity, sustainability and our event app, ICC Sydney Connect, ensure seamless events.

Through research and industry insights, we’re shaping the future of events, prioritising dynamic, sustainable and inclusive experiences while adapting to evolving global challenges.

Creating lasting impact through people-first values

ICC Sydney’s success stems from our unwavering commitment to making a meaningful difference to the people of NSW. What inspires me most is the passion of our team in delivering excellence, embodying our values as a people-first organisation.

In the past financial year, our mission to make a difference drove nearly $718 million in local economic contribution, while maintaining a 99 per cent client satisfaction rate. Through research and innovation, we will continue to adapt to evolving trends and deliver sustainable, immersive event experiences, strengthening the future of Sydney’s business events industry.

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