Monica Lee-Müller will step into the role as managing director of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre’s  management and operating company, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (Management) Ltd (”HML“), effective July 1.

She will replace Cliff Wallace, who will focus his attention on NWS Holding’s venue development in China and will maintain his chairmanship of the group’s venue management and operating companies in Zhengzhou and Shenyang.

Lee-Müller held the position of deputy managing director since 2007 and formerly was the HML’s director of business development. 

During her 18-year tenure, she has led the team in securing numerous world renowned exhibitions and conventions, according to HKCEC officials.

“Monica has been one of Hong Kong’s foremost ambassadors in the global Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions industry,” said NWS Holding Ltd (”NWS“) Executive Director Patrick Lam.

He added, “She is highly respected by HML’s staff and clients as well as by professionals within the industry. She is a valuable asset to the HKCEC and Hong Kong’s multi-billion dollar meetings and exhibitions industry.”

The 930-staff strong HML manages and operates the HKCEC under an Operation Agreement with the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (”HKTDC“). 

HKTDC executive director Fred Lam said of the decision to appoint Lee-Müller, "The HKTDC is pleased with the appointment of Ms. Monica Lee-Müller as managing director of HML.”

He added, “The HKCEC is a landmark of Hong Kong and it has been the venue for numerous important events that catch the attention of the world. … The council has no doubt that with her track record, Ms. Lee-Müller will bring the management of the HKCEC to a new level."

Lee- Müller has an 18-year tenure with HKCEC and serves on the HML Executive Leadership Committee and regularly represents the HKCEC at industry events and trade shows overseas. 

She is a member of the Board of UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, and has served in numerous other capacities in the industry’s leading convention and exhibition trade associations.

She also is a member of the executive committee of the Hong Kong Exhibition & Convention Industry Association.

Wallace has served as the HML’s managing director for 17 years. He will remain a board member of HML and will advise as called upon by HML executive management.

“Monica has been a tower of strength first as our director of business development and then as HML’s deputy for the last five years,” Wallace said.

He added, “The time is right for her now to assume the managing director role.”

William DiCarlo will assume the role of deputy managing director of HML. Wallace said DiCarlo and his wife Lori will relocate from the U.S.

“Bill has over 30 years of industry experience,” he added. “This experience, in addition to his leadership skills, energy, enthusiasm and education, will be a great asset to the HKCEC and our HML team. Bill has the proven ability to lead, communicate, mentor and energise staff to a level of improved performance for the benefit of the venue users and guests.”

DiCarlo served 14 years as executive director of a multi-purpose venue complex in Wisconsin, nine years as assistant general manager of a multi-purpose sports and entertainment complex in California and eight years as vice president for finance for a major multi-purpose venue in New York, while concurrently serving as corporate controller for the venue’s U.S. professional private management company.