Paul Kanaan Appointed Acting General Manager of Nyaal Banyul

Paul Kanaan, currently Head of Food and Beverage at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), will become Acting General Manager of Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre on 19 October, following the departure of Rick Aylett.

The Victorian Convention and Event Trust (VCET) confirmed the appointment ahead of Aylett’s departure on Friday 16 October. Kanaan brings more than 20 years of experience at MCEC, including operational expertise gained through the delivery of major international events.

VCET Chief Operations Officer Lauren Milsop said his experience would help provide continuity during the venue’s first full year of operation.

"We are delighted to welcome Paul to the role of Acting General Manager, Nyaal Banyul. 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.”

Milsop also acknowledged Aylett’s contribution to the venue’s development and opening.

"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 looking forward to taking on the role and working with the team and stakeholders across the Greater Geelong region.

"I'm very excited to step into this role and be part of such an iconic new venue.”

“I’m looking forward to working with the Greater Geelong region, meeting the many people and organisations who support Nyaal Banyul, and becoming part of the community that has helped make the venue such a success.”

He added that his immediate focus would be to build on the work already undertaken as the venue prepares for the year ahead.

"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.”
 

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