BestCities Global Alliance, a network of leading convention centres around the world, has renewed its management contract with GainingEdge for another three years.

The Alliance has a presence in Australia, as Melbourne is a member city. GainingEdge is a specialist consulting firm that provides venue development advisory services, market strategy advice, in-market sales representation and strategic consulting services to associations such as BestCities. It has been managing the Alliance since 2009.

The BestCities Global Forum will be taking place in Melbourne 18-21 January, 2024.

“GainingEdge’s expertise in legacy and sustainability has empowered the Alliance to drive global impact for meetings and events. This has been vital for navigating through the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic,” BestCities Global Alliance chair, Dr Edward Koh, said.

“As we embark on another three-year journey, we eagerly anticipate the endless possibilities that lie ahead, and look forward to achieving even greater accomplishments together.”

GainingEdge chief executive officer, Jon Siverston said the company was delighted to extend its long-standing association with BestCities.

“Over time, GainingEdge has worked in synergy with BestCities growth and we are witness to its quest for impact and innovation as the world’s most enduring convention bureau alliance in the international meetings industry. We are proud to support this journey.”

BestCities is also going through a management change, with Loren Christie appointed as the group’s new managing director as of 1 July.