Brisbane’s Visionary Leaders Driving Economic Growth

BEDA Leadership Team L-R: Lorelle Chittick, Dr John Cowie,
Callum Wood, Anthony Ryan, Abigail Chambers,
Rhys Watkins, Juliet Alabaster & Jon Kritzinger

Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) is guided by a dynamic leadership team committed to shaping the city’s future. With expertise spanning economic development, tourism, investment attraction, and marketing, these industry leaders are driving Brisbane’s transformation into a globally recognised destination for business, innovation, and major events.

At the helm is Anthony Ryan, Chief Executive Officer, whose strategic vision and passion for Brisbane position him as a driving force in the city’s economic growth. A well-respected leader with a background in the not-for-profit sector, Ryan brings a collaborative approach to enhancing Brisbane’s global reputation and preparing for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Juliet Alabaster, Chief Operating Officer, has played a pivotal role in boosting Brisbane’s visitor economy and securing major events that contribute to the city’s prosperity. With extensive experience in tourism and business attraction, she has helped position Brisbane as a must-visit destination.

Financial stewardship is led by Jon Kritzinger, Chief Financial Officer, who ensures BEDA’s operations run smoothly with his expertise in financial management, risk mitigation, and corporate administration.

The city’s tourism and major events sector is championed by Lorelle Chittick, General Manager of Tourism, Business & Major Events, whose leadership has elevated Brisbane’s status as a premier destination for international conferences, sporting events, and cultural festivals.

BEDA’s commitment to talent and workplace excellence is driven by Abigail Chambers, General Manager of Human Resources, who fosters a diverse and inclusive work environment while ensuring Brisbane remains an attractive city for top professionals.

Brisbane’s global brand presence is managed by Callum Wood, General Manager of Marketing, whose expertise in destination branding and marketing ensures Brisbane is positioned as a leading city for tourism, investment, and business opportunities.

Investment attraction is spearheaded by Dr John Cowie, General Manager of Investment Attraction, whose data-driven approach helps businesses and investors navigate Brisbane’s thriving market and capitalise on emerging opportunities.

Brisbane’s business community is further supported by Rhys Watkins, General Manager of Industry Engagement, who fosters strategic partnerships and helps local businesses scale and succeed through BEDA’s initiatives.

Together, this exceptional leadership team is driving sustainable economic growth, enhancing Brisbane’s international reputation, and ensuring the city remains a vibrant hub for business, investment, and tourism.
Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) participated in AIME 2025, showcasing Brisbane as a premier destination for business events, conferences, and incentives. As part of the Asia Pacific’s leading meetings and events industry gathering, BEDA connected with global event planners, industry leaders, and decision-makers to highlight Brisbane’s world-class venues, vibrant tourism offerings, and strong business infrastructure. The agency reinforced its commitment to attracting major events to the city, driving economic growth, and positioning Brisbane as a top-tier location for international business events.

Brisbane Economic Development Agency

Phone: + 61 7 3006 6200
Fax: + 61 7 3006 6250
Postal Address: PO Box 12260 George St Brisbane, QLD, Australia 4003
Physical Address: Level 20, 69 Ann St Brisbane, QLD, Australia 4000
Web: https://beda.brisbane.qld.au/en/