06 July 2026
NZICC strengthens international sales team as global event momentum builds
Auckland, New Zealand, 6th July 2026: The New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) has strengthened its International Sales Team with the appointments of Irette Ferreira and Xanthe Smythe, as the venue builds momentum in its first year of operation.
The appointments follow a significant start for New Zealand’s newest purpose-built convention centre, which has already hosted major events across business events, tourism, hospitality and culture, including TRENZ, MEETINGS and the inaugural MICHELIN Guide New Zealand ceremony.
The appointments of Ferreira and Smythe mark the next step in NZICC’s expanded sales strategy, strengthening the ability to attract international conferences, major events and new business from key growth markets. They join a team led by Alana Bicknell, Director of Sales, whose 17 years of cross-sector experience spans business events, hospitality, venue sales, operations and complex stakeholder environments.
The team is focused on growing NZICC’s global event pipeline, with Eloise Barnes, Business Development Executive, supporting stronger university and research sector relationships, including NZICC’s MOU with Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, and Jessica Carlson, Sales Manager, Australia, who brings more than 15 years’ experience across the business events sector in New Zealand and Australia, strengthening NZICC’s focus in the Australian market.
Alana Bicknell, Director of Sales at NZICC, says, “Our first six months have shown the role NZICC can play in bringing business events, international visitors and global conversations into the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. Irette and Xanthe's impressive track record, knowledge, networks and commercial insight will be incredibly valuable as we continue the momentum of competing for high-impact, dynamic events on the world stage.”
Ferreira brings more than 20 years of global business events expertise across South Africa, Qatar, the UAE and New Zealand, with specialist knowledge in the international association market, bid strategy, global relationship management and destination development.
Most recently, she was with Business Events Wellington, where she supported the strategy to build the pipeline for Tākina, Wellington’s new convention centre.
Irette Ferreira, International Sales Consultant at NZICC says: “Having spent the past six years focused on growing Wellington’s global footprint, I’m feeling energised to continue that work with NZICC. My focus is on leveraging the international association market to secure events that deliver meaningful impact, not just for Auckland, but for the economic, social and knowledge benefits they can bring to New Zealand.”
Xanthe Smythe also joins NZICC with more than 20 years’ experience in hospitality, sales, and events, bringing a strong understanding of client needs in the business events sector. Known for her collaborative approach and strength in strategic partnerships, Smythe completed the ICCA Skills Programme in 2024.
Xanthe Smythe, Sales Manager - International at NZICC, adds, “It is a privilege to join NZICC and contribute to a world-class convention centre with such strong potential for Auckland and New Zealand. I’m looking forward to showcasing the value NZICC can offer international clients and delegates, while building strong, long-lasting relationships that deliver real value for the city and the wider business events industry.”
Notable wins include ANZCA’s Annual Scientific Meeting, Coral Reef Symposium (ICRS), the 20th International Symposium on Microbial Ecology, The International Confederation for Principals Convention (ICP) 2026, RANCZO 57th Annual Scientific Congress, IDF World Dairy Summit, IAEVG ICCDP 2026, all within NZICC’s opening year.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Georgia Grindle
Georgia.grindle@specialgroup.co.nz
+64 21 164 2038
