EXSA has appointed Sharon Peetz as the new General Manager with immediate effect. Sharon has worked in the business tourism industry since 1994 and brings a wealth of experience to her new role.
She started her career with the Tourism Authority in Durban in 1989 where she was involved in marketing large profile events such as the Durban Beach Africa. Her enthusiasm and fresh approach is fueled by the diversity of the industry and the fact that it is a platform to draw international delegates to South Africa, hence creating job opportunities. Sharon sees her role as multi-faceted and states that she would certainly start by prioritizing her objectives as the new General Manager for EXSA.
Her key objectives will be to ensue that existing members and new members receive a range of tangible benefits and to ensure that members are encouraged to become ambassadors for the Association. Other objectives include positioning South Africa as a leading exhibition destination through EXSA and to continue to raise standards.
Sharon’s vision for the future of EXSA is to provide an excellent return on investment and ensuring that the exhibition industry’s financial contribution to our economy is continued and to include relevant role players in local, provincial and national government. The new General Manager has definitely set her sights on the most obvious event that is fast approaching South Africa and that is working towards a successful 2010.
Also, on her most important issues to be addressed, is the market research that was recently undertaken and to highlight the huge economic impact our industry has on the economy.
When asked about the highlights of her career thus far, Sharon says that they are almost too numerous to mention. However, the friends she has gained whilst working in the industry is certainly a highlight.
Sharon is looking forward to meeting and strengthening current relationships within the industry and developing new ones. She encourages all EXSA members to become more actively involved with the office and with each other. “I am certainly looking forward to personally meeting all the members to gain a better understanding of their needs to see where they would like to see EXSA positioned.”
