Abraam has been appointed Executive Director Strategic Planning, of the Royal Group, a multi-disciplined conglomerate of companies specialising in international property development, investment, finance, media and technology.
Victorian Major Events Company Chairman, Sir Rod Eddington saluted Peter Abraam’s contribution to the company and to the city of Melbourne. He said, "I thank Peter for his terrific work over the past eight years. Everyone at VMEC is sad that he has decided to leave but we wish him well in what is a very exciting new opportunity."
"His skill and dedication have been fundamental to cementing Melbourne's position as the world's leading event city."
Premier Steve Bracks said, "Peter Abraam's strategic and operational knowledge has been instrumental in developing Melbourne's diverse sporting and cultural event calendar, which is now the envy of the world."
He said, "For over eight years, Peter has led a highly successful team, who are globally recognised as the pre-eminent major event procurement agency. His networks, tourism insights and international reputation for winning events have been great assets for this State."
Abraam said, "I'll miss VMEC and Melbourne immensely but its time to start a new chapter, using the skills and experience I have gained across various roles. I've been fortunate my work has always been about Melbourne, from its urban design, to its major events - VMEC has been a dream job, selling and promoting Melbourne to the world".
Abraam is highly regarded for facilitating the State's seamless approach to bidding and staging world-class events. He paid tribute to what he sees as Melbourne's competitive advantage - its event industry and stakeholders including the State Government and its Departments, Tourism Victoria, the City Council, and Melbourne's sporting venues, and arts and cultural institutions.
"I am privileged to have worked for outstanding Chairmen and Board members, and had the benefit of a number of close mentors. I am so incredibly proud of the very small team of talented and motivated professionals that are at the core of VMEC's success".
The Premier said that while Mr Abraam leaves a wealth of lasting legacies for the city, he also leaves VMEC extremely well positioned to face its growing competition and the challenges of the future.
Mr Abraam will remain with VMEC in the interim and the recruitment process for a new Chief Executive Officer will commence immediately.
