Brisbane 2032 hires top tourism marketer
Former Tourism Fiji CEO, Brent Hill has been appointed Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee, following a global recruitment search.
Hill brings more than two decades of experience from national and international executive marketing positions across tourism, government, finance, retail and telecommunications sectors. He has also previously been recognised as a top 25 CMO.
“Having Brent’s global marketing and tourism experience positions us to maximise the opportunities the Games will afford, including supporting lasting legacies for Brisbane, Queensland and beyond,” said Brisbane 2032 CEO, Cindy Hook
“Brent has a strong track record in executing global strategic campaigns and activations. I’m looking forward to working with him and the broader team to bring our brand to life, particularly as we prepare to become the next Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games Host after LA28.”
Brisbane 2032 President, Andrew Liveris, also welcomed Hill’s appointment.
“We have a multi-billion dollar Games to market and our attraction and perception will be crucial on a local, national and international level,” Liveris said.
“Brent has significant experience focusing widespread attention on specific campaigns, leading teams to deliver effective and sustained marketing and brand awareness and capturing hearts and minds for a unified cause.”
Hill, who will formally commence in the role in November, will oversee the planning and delivery of the Games’ brand assets, marketing and experiential campaigns, and live sites across Australia and abroad.
He described the opportunity as “the role of a lifetime”.
“As a proud Australian, I vividly remember the excitement across the country 25 years ago as Sydney and communities across this country celebrated our home Games,” Hill said.
“In 2032, the world’s attention will be on Brisbane and Queensland, and we have an incredible opportunity to elevate the city and state on the global stage like never before.
“I can’t wait to promote the wealth of accolades, people and experiences that makes us unique and attracts millions of people to our shores every year.”
Exclusive: Russell Cool takes on expanded role at Minor Hotels
Minor Hotels Australasia has appointed Russell Cool as Director of Operations, in addition to his role as Director of Franchising.
As Director of Operations, he is tasked with overseeing commercial performance, strategic plan implementation, franchise growth, new property onboarding and more.
Russell has previously held senior roles with Minor Hotels, La Vie Hotels and Resorts, Langham Hotels, and Onyx Hospitality.
“We are thrilled to have Russell’s in-depth industry knowhow and strategic insights in this newly created role at such a critical time for our expanding portfolio,” said Minor Hotels Australasia Chief Operating Officer, Craig Hooley.
“An exceptional leader who ensures the guest experience is at the heart of everything we do, Russell will bring expertise in stakeholder management, innovation, mentoring and operational excellence to the role, and I look forward to working alongside him to deliver for our guests, our owners and our Minor Hotels team.”
Cool said he looks forward to the new role.
“I am fortunate to work with a talented team who share my passion, and I am excited to support Minor Hotels’ global target of operating 850 hotels by 2027,” Cool said.
“Franchise development will be a key piece of the puzzle to achieve that growth, as well as strategic property acquisitions in sought-after locations, such as our first Oaks property in Auckland, the newly opened Oaks Auckland Hotel and Oaks Lake Crackenback Resort in the scenic Snowy Mountains.
“I will also be spearheading the transition of Oaks Hotels Resorts and Suites into a full-service offering, including the considered rollout of Oaks’ new brand hallmarks and lifestyle-led guest experiences, such as curated grab-and-go pantries, on-site cafes with barista-made coffee and flexible co-working lobby spaces.
“Designed to drive loyalty and create a strong point of difference in the competitive Australasian market, the implementation of these experiences marks a pivotal time in the evolution of the Oaks brand, and I cannot wait to bring it to life over the coming months, and beyond.”
Brisbane Pullman welcomes new sales leader
Pullman Brisbane King George Square has named Lynsey Burke as Associate Director of Sales.
Working closely with the Director of Sales and Marketing, Burke will oversee key accounts, support the growth and development of the Conference and Events team, and implement strategies to achieve ambitious sales targets.
Originally from Scotland, Burke brings two decades of diverse experience in the global hospitality industry having held roles from Wedding Planner to Hotel Manager, and having played a key role in delivering major international sporting events, including the British Open and the New Zealand Open.
Her focus will be on expanding the hotel’s presence in the events market by building strong partnerships with agents, PCOs, and the wider tourism industry.
“I’m excited to step into this role at such an exciting time for Brisbane’s events and hospitality scene,” said Burke.
“Pullman Brisbane King George Square has incredible potential, and I’m looking forward to working with our talented team to strengthen relationships with our clients, attract new business and deliver exceptional event experiences.
“For me, this position is more than sales targets, it’s about building a reputation as the go-to destination for conferences and events in Brisbane, especially as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympics.”