The Victorian Convention and Event Trust (VCET) has appointed Paul Kanaan as acting general manager, Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre.
The appointment follows the departure of Rick Aylett, who finishes with the organisation on 16 October. He leaves to take on the role of chief executive officer (CEO) at Melbourne Royal. His departure comes just three months after the convention centre officially opened. He had been with the $450m venue project since 2022.
Kanaan, currently head of food and beverage at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), takes up the his role effective 19 October.
VCET chief operations officer Lauren Milsop said Kanaan was ideally placed to lead the team through an important period.
“His extensive experience and proven track record delivering major global events includes 2024 ASEAN-Australia Special Summit, the ‘Lion’s Den’ for British and Irish Lions tour in 2025 and the 20th International Aids Conference in 2014. He will ensure we continue to establish Nyaal Banyul as a world-class business events destination.”
“Paul’s appointment provides continuity and stability for our team, clients and stakeholders for the first full year of operation. Arrangements will be made to appoint a permanent general manager next year.”
“I also take this opportunity to thank Rick Aylett for his leadership and contribution to the successful opening of Nyaal Banyul and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career.”
Kanaan said he was excited to step into the role: “I know the team has built something special, and I’m looking forward to bringing my experience to the venue and working with the team to continue building on our foundations as we head into an exciting 2027.”
