Pieter Allaerts

Chief Hospitality Officer

“Hospitality runs in my veins. Positivity drives me in the right direction. Trust defines who I am.” 

 As a son, father, husband and manager, my passion comes from the pleasure of inspiring others while earning their confidence, showing them gratitude, sharing their support and always striving to serve with excellence. Whether it’s in the kitchen (I’m a foodie), at work (building mutual respect) or riding my bike (pushing my limits, freeing my mind), it’s always about reaching my full potential so others can reach theirs. I’ve enjoyed 18 years in hospitality – 13 years in the meetings (MICE) industry, 6 years as volunteer for MPI (Meeting Professionals International) & IACC (International Association of Conference Centers), and am the proud winner of an MPI Rise award and winner of some individual & team awards at Dolce Hotels & Resorts.

Mark Cooper

CEO at IACC

Mark Cooper is the Chief Executive Officer of IACC. He was appointed into this newly created global role in October 2012. Mark brings to IACC 25-years of experience in the global meetings industry working for both US and UK based companies, in a number of leadership roles requiring a sales and marketing specialism.With an extensive industry background in meetings and conference focused businesses, he has held senior posts with respected conference venue operators and global agencies, including Dolce Hotels & Resorts, Sundial Group, ConferenceDirect and Warwick Conferences.

Jake Dimarco

Founder & CEO at Spare Workspace

Robyn Johnson

CEO at Meetings & Events Australia

Robyn Johnson is the Chief Executive Officer of Meetings & Events Australia, the peak body in the events industry representing more than 500 member organisations. Prior to this role Robyn was the General Manager of Event Delivery and a member of the Executive team at Business Events Sydney. She was Managing Director of an event management company and has more than 25 years’ experience managing international and national conferences for the association, government and corporate sectors. Robyn is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has a strong background in developing and implementing business strategies for organisations.

Ken Kelling

Associate Director at Davies Tanner

Ken Kelling is an award-winning PR and communications veteran with over 25 years’ experience. A specialist in the world of business events, Ken is an Associate Director at Davies Tanner where his clients include VisitScotland, Visit Wales and the International Convention Centre Wales. Ken has worked on a number of high profile events including the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. He is a former Communications Director at Visit London and has worked in tourism and hospitality for many years. He is also an experienced professional coach and mentor.

Mathew Toniolo

Workplace Strategist at Haworth

Mathew has 6 years experience in various areas of commercial interior design and furniture. Mathew has worked extensively in spatial planning, co-creation and the delivery of large-scale and complex projects. As a member of the regional Haworth Strategic Services team; Mat facilitates strategic client workshops with business leads and users in a human-centred co-creation approach to workplace design. Understanding and interpreting quantitative and qualitative analytical data, Mat provides clients with expert knowledge and insights, creating unique workspace solutions within Australia.

Max Valente

Alchemist at Thought Studio

Max Valente is the founder of Thought Studio, an award-winning software development company. His experience spans back to the dark, ancient days of the command line interface, a time when mobile phones were suitcases and cameras were pointed out rather than at yourself #distinctlackofselfies. Thought Studio has been paramount in developing facilities management solutions that push the technological envelope and assist businesses to manage resources. Max has been at the forefront of technology for many years, driving the IoT industry for retail and corporate spaces. If asked though, he’d rather be sailing.