The bureau has "ambitious plans to build back best with the full support of government and industry," said CEO Lyn Lewis-Smith. Photo Credit: BESydney
New South Wales is gearing up to host 95 events between 2022-2029 worth AU$503million (US$370 million), according to Business Events Sydney's (BESydney) Annual Financial Report, released on 15 November.
As for bid wins amid the pandemic, BESydney secured 18 meetings worth an estimated AU$70 million in direct expenditure to the New South Wales economy for 2020-21, and rescheduled 62% of meetings affected by Covid-19 into future years.
Speaking at the company’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) the Chair of the BESydney Board, Bruce Baird AM, recognised the resilience of the business events industry and looked to positive future prospects for the industry, as domestic and international markets reactivate.
"Conditions were tough this year and winning these events — and delivering inspiring experiences for the delegates who attend them —requires a huge Team Sydney effort, now more than ever," he said.
BESydney CEO Lyn Lewis-Smith also emphasised the importance of in-person connections following a recent multi-million-dollar injection to Sydney's business events industry — which she says will back the bureau's "ambitious plans to build back best with the full support of government and industry".
“In-person meetings are vital to personal and professional development, company culture, innovation, and business outcomes. As we look to 2022 and beyond, we are confident that the business events industry will play a major role in rebuilding the economy," she said.
The AGM also saw the announcement of incoming Member Director Emma Bowyer to the BESydney Board for a three-year term. The Managing Director of ICMS Australasia joins with 20 years of experience in the business events industry.