Panelists
Michael Heyward, Founder - Heyward Group
Michael Heyward is the Founder of, Heyward Group, focusing on organisational behaviour and performance. World class tools are used with individuals and teams to support business evolution and transformation. From revenue management, team retention and engagement, through developing skills and tools for working in complex business environments, we transform the way teams work.
Michael has over 30 years of experience in Hotel Operations and Revenue Management, across Europe, Middle East, Asia and the Pacific, at the leading edge of the development of Revenue Management as a discipline in Hotels. The drive to innovate and challenging the way we work continues.
Katherine Pfahi, Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships, Encore Event Technologies
As the Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships across the Asia Pacific region for Encore Event Technologies, it is the responsibility of me and my team to focus on growing the number of partnerships with venues across the Asia Pacific region ensuring we continue to build our network of valued customers.
Joining the business in 2021, from NewsCorp where I was most recently Commercial Director, Travel; overseeing the success and commercial growth of brands Escape.com.au, Travel & Leisure and news.com.au/travel I have held leadership positions with The Washington Commanders in the NFL, 7West Media & Network TEN.
With a strong track record of fostering authentic partnerships which drive commercial growth across diverse sectors, I advocate for customer centricity and digital transformation as the strategic levers for delivering business results.
I take great pride in shaping a collaborative culture, one which elevates our team members to achieve their own career aspirations. Our team work tirelessly with our partners to deliver outstanding experiences and events and their success is our success.
Libbie Ray, Director- Connected Event Group
Libbie Ray is the Director of Connected Event Group, a full-service technical production company that utilises creative AV solutions to produce innovative and meaningful event experiences.
With 20 years of experience across marketing, events, technology, and broadcast production, Libbie brings a well-rounded approach to the new world of events.
Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, Libbie is particularly enthusiastic about the potential of AI to transform the industry and is dedicated to sharing her wealth of knowledge with her sector.
She also serves as a Global Learning Ambassador for the Entrepreneurs' Organisation, further amplifying her impact on the industry.
David Raymond, Area Partner - AVPartners
David’s experience in audiovisual services spans 23 years in Australia and abroad, including nearly 16 years with AVPartners.
With a background as a skilled lighting designer, David has spent the bulk of his career in 5-star venues, which has fostered a keen eye for detail and a client-driven approach.
Alarnah Roberts - Providence Consulting
Alarnah Roberts has a background in delivering events as an inhouse events coordinator and driving strategic marketing initiatives within the not-for-profit sector. Recently making the leap to the private sector, Alarnah brings a perspective and a deep-seated passion for enhancing event security standards and leveraging events as a powerful platform for promoting services.
Alarnah's dedication to excellence and innovation in event management was recognised when she was named the Inaugural Tim Birley Rising Star recipient last year, highlighting her commitment to growth and excellence. This recognition has driven Alarnah's mission to empower others new in the sector, providing them with the guidance needed to thrive and build meaningful connections.
Karen Sainsbury, Managing Director - Cornerstone Events
Karen is a founder and Managing Director of Cornerstone Events. She has a unique ability to really understand what a customer needs, and takes the time to get to know their business – Karen is extremely passionate about delivering what is promised, and ensures every little detail is covered.
Karen’s career has seen her achieve a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, work in both Education and Private Hospital Industry, as well as a strong background in Hospitality. Her business acumen leading large hotel based teams and national committees within the Accor Network gives Cornerstone a unique edge and value add to its customers.
Karen is a certified meeting professional with the Professional Conference Organisers Association Australia and New Zealand and is also the NSW Councillor on the PCOA Board.
Katie Tomkins - Iceberg Events
Meet Katie, the Events Director at Iceberg Events. She has a passion for the business events industry that's stronger than her favourite spicy margaritas.
From wrangling unruly convention centre layouts to charming hotel ballrooms into submission, Katie's seen it all, having previously held roles at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre and worked on logistical beasts like the opening of the Queensland Children’s Hospital and the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.
When she’s not wearing her events hat, she can be in the kitchen baking her award-winning macarons!
Justin Voigt - The College of Intensive Care Medicine of Australia & New Zealand
Justin Voigt is an accomplished Conference and Events Manager with a proven track record of creating seamless and impactful events.
With a keen eye for detail and a passion for creating memorable experiences, Justin has successfully executed a diverse range of events, from corporate conferences to high-profile industry exhibitions.
His strategic planning, adept coordination, and exceptional communication skills consistently result in events that exceed expectations. With his expertise, events come to life, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.
Acknowledgement of Country
The PCO Association acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians of Country throughout Australia and acknowledges their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the people, the Cultures and the elders past, present and emerging.