Outgoing chief executive of Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), Peter King, has been recognised for his contribution to the business events sector and his work growing the MCEC over the past decade.
In his final month as CEO, King has been celebrated with a permanent tribute installed in MCEC’s Plenary, he’s been inducted as a Club Melbourne Ambassador, and he has received lifetime membership of the Exhibition and Events Association of Australasia (EEAA).
A unique red chair has been installed at MCEC’s Plenary space as a nod to his earlier career as a first-class cricketer. The green chairs of the Plenary are designed to represent the grass of the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where Peter once hit a record six into the northern stands. A red chair marks where the ball landed at the MCG, mirroring the new one installed in King’s honour in the Plenary.
King has also been made an honorary Club Melbourne Ambassador in recognition of his support of the programme over the last decade. Since he became CEO of MCEC, Club Melbourne has supported bids to win 107 international events worth more than AUD$860m (US$574.5m) in economic impact and attracting over 150,000 delegates to Melbourne.
And, last week, the MCEC CEO was also awarded Lifetime Membership of the Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia (EEAA) for his contribution to the events industry. He has been an industry leader for years including serving as a board member of EEAA, Business Events Council of Australia, AIPC, and the Melbourne Convention Bureau.
Peter finishes up at MCEC at the end of the year, but he leaves behind a lasting legacy, including leading the $205m expansion of MCEC and successfully leading the business through Covid-19.
The Hon. John Brumby AO, chairperson, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (pictured with King), said: “Peter’s contributions to MCEC and the industry over the years are many and numerous. It’s vital that his achievements are recognised by the business and the industry.
“His contributions transcend the boardroom and can be seen with tangible outcomes on the ground. Peter led the $205m expansion of MCEC and during Covid-19, when the chips were down, he played a key role in advocating for the interests of the exhibition and event sector.
“He built strong relationships with his team, customers, and stakeholders, and is held in high regard by everyone he worked with. I’m delighted that we can recognise his incredible contribution to MCEC.”
