The Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB) has appointed Melissa Callum as executive director of its PHL Life Sciences business division, following the retirement of longtime executive director, Bonnie Grant. Callum has over a decade of experience in business development a strong background in the life sciences sector
Life sciences meetings and conventions make more than 45% of total business booked by the PHLCVB annually.
Callum will also be connecting meeting organisers directly with Philadelphia’s medical and life sciences community.
“Melissa is the kind of strategic, forward-thinking, and collaborative leader needed for this role, given the size and scope of our current life sciences business,” said Maria Grasso, PHLCVB chief sales officer.
“Philadelphia is a global leader in cell and gene therapy and is home to some of the world’s premier academic medical centres, research institutes, and universities. There is incredible opportunity to bring even more national and international life sciences meetings and conventions to Philadelphia, and Melissa’s experience in building industry relationships and creating growth opportunities will be a pivotal for PHL Life Sciences in the years to come.”
Prior to joining the PHLCVB, Callum spent more than a decade with Life Sciences Pennsylvania, where she most recently served as vice-president of strategic initiatives.
“I’m eager to build new relationships, explore opportunities for growth and help showcase what sets Philadelphia apart as a leading life sciences destination in the United States,” said Callum. “I’m especially looking forward to working at the intersection of life sciences, business development, and hospitality to bring people together and create meaningful opportunities for the region.”
