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ASM Global Appoints General Manager For Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre
Courtesy of ASM Global – Dr. Debbie Kristiansen.
General Manager of the new Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre.
ASM Global has appointed Dr. Debbie Kristiansen as General Manager of the new Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre, due to open in 2022.
Kristiansen is an experienced venue management and entertainment professional, who has lived and worked in the Middle East for 16 years. She ranked in the Top 30 Most Inspirational Women in the Arab World 2019 and was named Middle East Female CEO of the Year 2018.
“With a long and distinguished career in the tourism, exhibition, events and entertainment industries, Dr Kristiansen’s knowledge and understanding of the culture and the character of the region will be an invaluable asset in her new role,” a statement from ASM Global reads.
ASM Global APAC & Gulf Region Chairman and Chief Executive, Harvey Lister AM, said Dr. Kristiansen is the ideal candidate to take on the role of General Manager of this landmark development.
“Debbie has more than 30 years’ experience in the industry and her leadership skills will bring many unique qualities to the role. Her appointment will help consolidate ASM Global’s reputation in the region as the world’s leading producer of event experiences and enhance Bahrain’s standing as an international meetings destination,” said Lister.
Courtesy of ASM Global – A rendering of Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre.
The complex is scheduled to open next year.
Commenting on her appointment, Dr. Kristiansen said she was “truly excited” to join the ASM Global family, adding, “To have the opportunity of working both for ASM Global, and to return to the beautiful destination of Bahrain, is a dream come true. This will allow me the privilege to help mentor and build the talent and skill set of young Bahrainis for generations to come.
“I look forward to working closely with Bahrain Tourism & Exhibition Authority to develop and grow the international MICE business, and to create a long-term legacy for Bahrain.”
Iain Campbell, Executive Vice President, ASM Global – Gulf Region, welcomed Dr. Kristiansen’s appointment and said it highlighted ASM Global’s reputation and ability to attract the best talent from across the globe.
“It is a pleasure to have Debbie on the team with her considerable knowledge and experience across the broader industry, both regionally and internationally,” Campbell concluded.
He added that he’s looking forward to welcoming other industry professionals to the team as the Bahrain project progresses.
The new Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre is set to boost the Kingdom of Bahrain’s position as a leading meetings and events destination, attracting future tourism investment and events to the region. With 95,000 square meters of exhibition space across 10 halls, a 4,000-seat tiered auditorium, 95 meeting rooms, Royal & VIP Majlis and a 250-seat restaurant, ASM Global says the centre will be the largest venue of its kind in the Middle East.