An iconic events chief helms an Melbourne icon

A well-known figure in Victoria's business events scene, Natalie O'Brien will get into the CEO seat at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre come January 2023.

Natalie O’Brien will replacing outgoing CEO, Peter King, who completes his 11-year stint at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre at the end of the year.
Natalie O’Brien will replacing outgoing CEO, Peter King, who completes his 11-year stint at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre at the end of the year.

Natalie O’Brien had been appointed as the CEO of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), replacing outgoing CEO, Peter King, who will complete his 11-year stint at MCEC at the end of the year.

The well-known industry veteran will commence in her new role as CEO of MCEC from 9 January 2023, where she will be responsible for the overall management, business plan delivery and future strategic direction of MCEC and the operational planning for the new Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCEC).

O’Brien brings a wealth of leadership experience in the tourism and events industry. She is a former CEO of Food and Wine Victoria, producers of Australia’s internationally acclaimed Melbourne Food & Wine Festival.

Most recently she has managed her own strategy consultancy, while operating as a CEO for Wine Victoria, and previously interim CEO for Ballarat Regional Tourism, where she led the co-design of Visitor Economy Recovery Plans.

She was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in the 2019 Australia Day Honours list for significant service to tourism, food, and the community of Victoria.