Leigh Harry, chief executive of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and a well-known figure in the business events industry, was last week awarded with the prestigious Meetings & Events Australia (MEA) ‘Outstanding Contribution Award' for his ongoing commitment and dedication to the global meetings and events industry.
 
As well as being the MCEC's chief executive, Leigh holds a number of top industry positions. He is currently global president of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA); deputy chairman of the Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau (MCVB); president of the global Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC); member of the Business Events Council of Australia (BECA); and member of the Tourism Australia Business Events Industry Advisory Panel.
 
Over the years Leigh has overseen the opening of Melbourne's former World Congress Centre, the  Melbourne Exhibition Centre and  last year, the much-anticipated opening of the world's first ‘6 Star Green Star' environmentally rated Melbourne Convention Centre, as well as the integration of the two venues to successfully create the award-winning Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
 
Speaking after MEA's 23rd National Awards presentation, Leigh said: "I am truly honoured to accept this award. MEA's work promotes the highest industry standards possible across the nation and recognises the professional and dedicated commitment that we all, collectively, bring to the Australian Business Events industry."