Leonie Ashford has successfully led the Tourism New Zealand Business Events team, driving growth and maximising competitive advantages. With nearly 15 years of experience, she is a dedicated advocate for the business events sector across Asia Pacific, emphasising collaboration and fostering strong industry relationships. Leonie is committed to leveraging best practices, promoting sustainable meeting solutions, and highlighting the positive legacies of conferences. In the past year, she spearheaded two major initiatives: hosting the ICCASkills Programme in September 2024 for 20 participants, advancing professional development, and presenting the winning campaign at the ICCA Best Marketing Awards during the November 2023 Congress in Bangkok. Her leadership continues to shape the future of New Zealand’s business events landscape.