International venue management company ASM Global has appointed a new general manager for Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB). Convention industry specialist, Alan Pryor (pictured) took up the role on 13 October 2024. He brings more than 40 years’ experience in international convention and hotel management, including as general manager for the ASM Global operated Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) in Malaysia.
Under Pryor’s leadership the KLCC became Asia’s first International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC) Gold Standard Venue. He previously spent a significant part of his earlier career in both convention centres and hotels in London and South Africa.
ASM Global (APAC and MENA) chairman and chief executive, Harvey Lister AM, said: “It’s powerful when we can leverage our collective experience from across the ASM Global family combining people and skills to deliver continued success in Bahrain.
“Alan is a strong, experienced global exhibition and convention leader and he is ideal to drive the next phase of growth for Exhibition World Bahrain.”
Pryor said he was, “looking forward to generating a long-term legacy for the Kingdom of Bahrain and working closely with partners Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority and all the local teams to create a diverse, inclusive team which will lead the venue into the future”.
Lister thanked Dr Debbie Kristiansen who served as Exhibition World Bahrain GM after delivering a successful opening of the centre last year and who now steps down to take a well-earned break with her family.
She said “I am deeply honoured and proud to have led the development and opening of Exhibition World Bahrain. It has been a privilege to mentor and work alongside an exceptional team of young Bahraini professionals, and I take immense pride in the lasting legacy we have created together over the past three and a half years.”
ASM Global has also announced that Tina Eggers, deputy director of business development (APAC and MENA), will spend several months in Bahrain providing support for the new team helping to drive the strategic direction of attracting new business, clients and visitors to Bahrain.
