Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre has appointed Monica Rizzi to the newly created position of General Manager, Operations, as the venue strengthens its business development teams.
Rizzi brings more than 20 years of experience across Australia’s events, hospitality and event-hire industries and will oversee MCEC’s largest operational division, comprising more than 1,000 permanent and casual employees.
She joins MCEC after more than eight years with Harry the Hirer, most recently as General Manager of Events. Her previous senior roles have included positions with Crown, Atlantic Group and Dann Event Hire.
Lauren Milsop, Chief Operating Officer of the Victorian Convention and Event Trust (VCET), which operates MCEC, said Rizzi’s operational and leadership experience would support the venue as it continues to grow.
“Monica is an accomplished leader with a proven track record of delivering exceptional operational outcomes and leading high-performing teams,” Milsop said.
MCEC is expanding its business development team to strengthen its position in the domestic market and pursue opportunities in international markets including China and India.
Sandra Lady has been appointed Head of Business Development and will lead a team comprising James Gilham, Rose Ryan Earles, Nicoleta Giurgiu and Pinky Brown. Collectively, MCEC says the team has more than 150 years of industry experience.
The changes follow an expansion of VCET’s operations beyond Melbourne. The organisation now also operates the newly opened Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, which opened in July.
Milsop will continue overseeing operations at both convention centres.
VCET Chief Executive Natalie O’Brien AM said events held at MCEC generated more than $700 million in economic impact for Victoria during the last financial year.