MONICA RIZZI has joined Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre as general manager, operations – a move that draws on more than two decades of experience across venues, hospitality and events suppliers.
Rizzi was most recently general manager of events at Harry the Hirer, and has also held senior leadership positions with several of Australia’s best-known events and hospitality businesses, including Crown, Atlantic Group and Dann Event Hire.
In the newly created role, Rizzi will take charge of Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC)’s largest and busiest division, leading the venue’s operations department and overseeing more than 1,000 permanent and casual employees.
Meanwhile, MCEC has also strengthened its business development team as part of its growth strategy, particularly in priority international markets including India and China.
Sandra Lady has been made head of business development and will lead a team comprising James Gilham, Rose Ryan Earles, Nicoleta Giurgiu and Pinky Brown, who collectively bring more than 150 years of industry experience.
“We are focused on creating new opportunities, strengthening partnerships and delivering value for our customers while showcasing Victoria’s exceptional business events capabilities across two world-class venues,” said Lady.
A spokesperson for MCEC said Rizzi would be responsible for driving operational excellence, innovation and customer experience as the convention centre continues to expand its activities and event portfolio.
“Monica is an accomplished leader with a proven track record of delivering exceptional operational outcomes and leading high-performing teams,” said Lauren Milsop, chief operating officer of the Victorian Convention and Event Trust, which operates MCEC and the newly opened Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre.
More… Dual birthdays for Melbourne event powerhouses
“As we continue to grow, Monica’s extensive industry experience and customer focus will be invaluable in helping us deliver exceptional experiences for our customers and visitors,” Milsop said.
Rizzi said: “I’m delighted to be joining MCEC and look forward to working with our talented operations team and senior leaders to build on the venue’s strong reputation for delivering world-class events.”
Melbourne pours a first for Australia
As Rizzi takes up the role, Milsop will continue to provide executive oversight of operations across both MCEC and the new Geelong venue.
MCEC said the appointments come as Victorian Convention and Event Trust expanded its footprint beyond Melbourne following the opening of the Geelong venue in July. With the trust now operating two major convention and event centres, the organisation is positioning itself to attract more events and deliver greater economic benefits for Victoria. In the last financial year, events held at MCEC generated more than AU$700 million in economic impact for the state.
