The Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) has announced the appointment of Cindy-Lee Bakos from MCI Australia and Nick Jeffrey from the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, as the newest members of ABEA’s Board of Directors following ABEA’s AGM last night. They join Angie Becker from Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre who was re-elected onto the Board.
Peter King
In addition, the ABEA Board has agreed to extend Peter King’s term as Chair for a further two years. Both Peter and Vice Chair, Matt Pearce from Talk2 Media, will continue in their roles, providing continuity and stability as ABEA advances its national agenda.
The Board also confirmed Andrew Crook from AV1 as the latest Emerging Leader Board Observer. His appointment reflects ABEA’s commitment to developing emerging leaders and ensuring the next generation has a seat at the national table.
These appointments mark a key step in strengthening ABEA’s governance and broadening the expertise guiding its national agenda.
ABEA Chair, Peter King, said in Cindy-Lee Bakos and Nick Jeffrey’s appointments, the Board is gaining leaders who understand both the commercial realities of the industry and the long-term strategic settings required to support its future.
“Cindy-Lee and Nick represent two crucial pillars of our sector: sophisticated event strategy and advisory, and world-class venue leadership. Their insight into how business events operate on the ground, as well as how they create value nationally, will be instrumental for us moving forward. Their appointment ensures our Board continues to reflect the breadth of the industry and positions us strongly to respond to emerging challenges and opportunities.
“Together the full ABEA Board will directly support our focus on data, capability building and national coordination. We are excited to welcome the full new team to the ABEA Board as we continue to do the important work in being the united voice for business events,” said King.
To view the full board and bios, please visit: www.abea.org.au/about/board-and-team/
Cindy-Lee Bakos
Cindy-Lee Bakos, Association Solutions Director at MCI Australia & Co-Founder & Director at Little Big Steps
Cindy-Lee Bakos brings 25 years of experience across business events, association management and the not-for-profit sector. She has held senior executive and governance roles, including CEO and Board Director positions, and has led major national and Asia Pacific event projects through her work with MCI Australia.
Nick Jeffrey GAICD FCPA, General Manager at Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre
Nick Jeffrey has more than 30 years’ experience in finance, governance and the business events sector, including over 16 years in executive and strategic leadership roles. As General Manager of the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) he oversees the delivery of world-class conferences, exhibitions and events.
Nick Jeffrey
Andrew Crook
Andrew Crook, Marketing and Communications Manager, AV1
As Marketing & Communications Manager at AV1, Andrew oversees all aspects of brand strategy, customer engagement, and industry communications. He plays a key role in shaping AV1’s market presence, driving awareness, and fostering connections within the business events industry.
