Our Leadership Team

John has over 25 years’ experience in executive and non-executive roles across hospitality, major events, sport, tourism, retail and the arts. Prior to his appointment as Experience Gold Coast’s Chief Executive Officer, he held senior roles with global hotel chain Accor and Westfield. John’s extensive non-executive career includes currently Chairing the Stadiums Qld Board and previously based in NSW where he chaired both Cricket NSW and Destination NSW.

Geoff has more than 20 years CFO and board level experience, as a Business Partner to various MDs across commercial and not-for-profit businesses. Prior to his appointment as Experience Gold Coast’s CFO, Geoff was CFO for HOTA, Home of the Arts. Geoff’s focus is on delivering efficient and dynamic models across EGC’s finance, IT and payroll systems that allow the business to operate at its optimum performance.

Amy is a senior HR executive who has held roles at Accor, Marriott, and Starwood. With over 25 years’ experience in tourism and hospitality, she brings strong expertise in all HR disciplines, excels in partnering with executive leadership to elevate HR as a strategic asset and is deeply committed to service and process improvement for an enhanced experience.

Rachel has an outstanding career track record, having worked in various senior roles at News Corp Australia, including Editor at the Gold Coast Bulletin before transitioning to a strategic role at Destination Gold Coast three years ago. She is a versatile leader with over 17 years’ experience in management roles across Australian media. Rachel is passionate about the Gold Coast and driving its visitor economy and reputation across local, national and international markets.

Avril is a seasoned events professional bringing over two decades of experience in the industry, spanning corporate, community, government and major events.

Prior to her appointment as Executive Director Events for Experience Gold Coast, she played a pivotal role in establishing the entity, shaping its strategic vision, and creating a framework to attract and support events on the Gold Coast.

Yarmila is one of Australia’s leading arts professionals with an extensive arts and culture pedigree. She has previously held senior roles with Queensland Symphony Orchestra, State Opera South Australia, Sydney Opera House and the Perth International Arts Festival. With over 25 years’ experience, she is a dynamic, collaborative leader with strong project management skills, adept at transforming and growing arts businesses.

Clare is a senior commercial leader with over 25 years’ experience driving revenue strategy, digital transformation, and enterprise growth. She has held executive roles at News Corp Australia, co-founded two ventures in sport and AI, and is recognised for building high-performing teams and delivering sustainable growth across complex portfolios.

Matt is a dynamic and collaborative executive leader with over 25 years of senior management experience, including more than a decade in the education sector. Passionate about connecting learning with opportunity, he has led commercially focused, data-driven strategies across domestic and international markets, bringing deep expertise in student behaviour, market development, and acquisition strategy. His work reflects a strong belief in the power of education to shape futures and strengthen communities.
 
As Executive Director, Education at Experience Gold Coast, Matt leads initiatives that deliver measurable outcomes and long-term regional value. Skilled in uniting cross-functional teams, driving digital transformation, and developing high-impact value propositions, he fosters innovation and collaboration across the city’s education ecosystem. Committed to advancing Experience Gold Coast’s vision for a vibrant, connected, and future-focused city, Matt champions an environment where students from around the world come to learn, belong, and thrive.