UNSW President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Jacobs has been named a Sydney Ambassador, joining a group of influential Australians charged with promoting the city as a premier business events destination.
UNSW President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Jacobs has been named a Sydney Ambassador, joining a group of influential Australians charged with promoting the city as a premier business events destination.
Professor Jacobs’ appointment and that of UNSW Built Environment Professor Ken Maher were unveiled by former Prime Minister John Howard at a gala dinner at the Sydney Opera House on Tuesday night.
The Business Events Sydney (BES) ambassadors program was launched in 2009 to help bring major global events to Sydney across priority sectors including infrastructure, information and communications technology, professional services, medical research and education.
UNSW President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Jacobs
It includes more than 90 leaders from a range of fields.
“For me Sydney is the greatest city in the world,” Professor Jacobs said. “Being an ambassador provides me with an opportunity to bring new events and conferences to a wonderful venue, with all the social, creative, intellectual and economic benefit that can generate.
“I hope that I will be able to link organisations and people together to come to Sydney to participate in events which enhance research, teaching, debate and exchange of ideas.”
Professor Ken Maher
Professor Maher, named among the Top 100 Most Influential People in Sydney by the Sydney magazine in 2010, is overseeing the redevelopment of the Darling Harbour precinct.
He said the revitalisation of urban areas such as Darling Harbour, Green Square and Barangaroo would transform the city, enriching “Sydney’s character and reputation as a great place to live and a great place to visit.”
“The Ambassador program is a wonderful way to convey the richness of culture, activities and experiences of our diverse and energetic city to the world at large,” said Maher, who is president-elect of the Australian Institute of Architects.
“The passion and stories of individuals who contribute to the shaping of our city brings a personal touch.”