The Future Convention Cities Initiative (FCCI) has announced that its first chairperson will be Lyn Lewis-Smith, the Chief Operating Officer of Business Events Sydney. Lewis-Smith was the unanimous choice of the seven member cities - Abu Dhabi Travel Authority, Business Events Sydney, Durban KwaZulu-Natal Convention Bureau, London and Partners (formerly Visit London), San Francisco Travel Association, Seoul Tourism Organization and Toronto Convention Bureau.
Rohit Talwar, CEO of Fast Future and Executive Director of the FCCI said “I think the growth in interest in FCCI has surprised everyone, and it made sense to have one of the members serve as chair of the group and act as a spokesperson for the members. When we discussed what the role might entail, Lyn was an obvious candidate to be the first chairperson. The other members clearly have huge respect for her experience, creativity and passion for research. I look forward to working with her.”