Beverley Parker


ICC Sydney

A Sydneysider through-and-through, Beverley Parker is an event extraordinaire with experience creating amazing conferences, exhibitions and activations across Australia and the world.

She is an advocate for women in business and is passionate about mentoring and inspiring the teams she works with, having held leadership roles for the likes of Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Dockside Group, Four Seasons Hotels and Accor Asia Pacific.

In her current role at ICC Sydney, Australia’s premier convention, exhibition and events precinct which is set to open in December 2016, Beverley is responsible for the management of a multi-segment team that is delivering some of the world’s most compelling, innovative events to our shores.


Growing up, what kind of career did you want to pursue?

Growing up, I was privileged to travel extensively and I loved staying at hotels, so that sparked my dream to work in the travel/hospitality industry. This path fortunately led me to where I am today and I can’t imagine doing anything else. Today, I am part of a team that is responsible for launching one of the most exciting projects in Australia; a venue that reflects a major innovation in terms of the business events industry and a development that will change the face of Sydney. Being part of ICC Sydney is definitely a career highlight.

Who inspires you?

My Dad, Rex Parker, who enjoyed a highly successful career and instilled in me the most important value of “treating people the way you wish to be treated yourself”.

My CEO, Geoff Donaghy, who leads with passion while instilling a values-based culture in our organisation.

My wonderful friend, Jenny Kostic, who at 82 is totally engaged in life, owns an extremely successful business, works full time and travels overseas regularly.

Who (apart from you) is most surprised by your achievements?

I have been fortunate to have had amazing support from others and belief in my ability – as long as I worked hard at it.

How have women helped shape your success to date?

Early in my career, I worked with a wonderful woman who generously shared knowledge and insights that allowed me to progress and succeed. I have continued to find supportive women in my chosen industry, and I always try to offer my staff the same opportunity.

What qualities do you most admire in a female colleague?

Determination, passion and a collaborative spirit, as teamwork and mentorship are vital to success.

What's the key to successfully balancing work and life?

Having a job that you love, and making time for friends and family.

If you had an afternoon to yourself, how would you spend it?

At my favourite place in the world, Balmoral Beach, close to home.

Who do you regard as your mentor?

I’ve been blessed to have a range of mentors – both male and female – throughout my career who have provided invaluable support and advice. For example, 15 years ago, I worked with Ton van Amerongen, the then CEO at Sydney’s former convention centre. Ton created an exceptional, egalitarian workplace. We had gender balance on our executive team and he created an environment where I felt respected and empowered to excel in my role.

What personal attributes have you used to overcome adversity in your life?

Commitment to maintaining my integrity in everything I do.

If you could make one change to women's lives, what would it be and why?

To turn up the volume on our courage level and always have the confidence to speak up and put your ideas forward without hesitation.

What is the hardest part of your job?

Essentially, my role involves selling something that does not yet exist and ensuring clients can see our vision for the future of business events. This has made it really important for my team to develop tools and tactics to showcase the end result and bring it to life. We are now using some really cool modelling, video and technology-driven solutions to support this, and it’s proving successful.

I’m also travelling a lot and the nature of the business is really fast-paced, but at the end of the day, seeing everything we have worked towards finally come to fruition and take shape in a tangible form will be amazing. I am really looking forward to seeing how clients, visitors and Sydneysiders react as they experience ICC Sydney for the very first time – the new theatres, the stunning harbour-side balconies, the grand ballroom – it’s going to be awesome.

What advice would you give to someone aspiring to success in your field?

Stand up for what you believe in. When your instinct tells you you’re right, trust that you’ve got the experience to back it up.

*This article first appeared in Women's Agenda