RNA Management

Brendan Christou was appointed Chief Executive of the RNA in 2012, after serving as Deputy Chief Executive / Chief Operating Officer since 2009. A Certified Practicing Accountant, Mr Christou started at the RNA in 2004 as the association's Financial Controller. His previous experience spans across the retail, engineering and financial services industries. He holds a Bachelor Business (Accountancy) from QUT and completed his Master of Business Administration from Curtin University in 2008. Mr Christou is a former board member of the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) and is also a Past President of The Committee for Brisbane.

Andrew Moore joined the RNA in early 2015 as Chief Financial Officer. He is responsible for the association's financial management, procurement, tax and regulatory compliance, insurance, information technology and the commercial aspects of the Brisbane Showgrounds Regeneration Project. As a senior executive with over 25 years' experience in financial and commercial management, business development, capital raising, treasury operations and corporate governance, Mr Moore brings a wealth of experience to the RNA. His professional career spans publicly listed and private companies, the not-for-profit sector and government enterprises across a diverse range of industries including events, energy, mining, sport, hospitality and education. Mr Moore is also an active member of the Queensland surf lifesaving community.

Veronica joined the RNA in April 2010. She has more than 25 years' experience in media and public relations. A strategic corporate communications manager Veronica has 15 years' experience in the not-for-profit sector, at a state and national level, developing strategies and campaigns to promote the interests of agriculture, education and the over 50s in the media. Previously Veronica spent eight years working as a journalist and editor in the Australian print media. In her current role at the RNA, Veronica is responsible for developing and implementing integrated communication strategies across traditional and digital mediums, digital content creation and branding, crisis management and public relations initiatives, media and issues management, and the management of internal and external communications.

Stephen Galbraith joined the RNA in July, 2012, in the newly created position of General Manager, Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) and Royal Queensland Awards (RQA). He has almost 30 years' experience in the operation and management of events,  tourism and leisure attractions, including Village Roadshow Theme Parks on the Gold Coast and Asia's Sunway Group - CEO of the leisure arm which included theme, water and animal parks such as Sunway Lagoon in Kuala Lumpur. Mr Galbraith has worked throughout Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Hong Kong, China and the Middle East. His role with the iconic Ekka has been in operation and business strategy management and development, to assist the rejuvenation of Queensland's largest and most loved annual event.

Jago Coyle joined the RNA in 2015, bringing a depth of experience from the hotel and events industries, both nationally and internationally. Prior to being appointed to General Manager of Venue Sales and Marketing at the RNA, Mr Coyle was the Director of Sales and Marketing at both the Sofitel and Marriott Hotels in Brisbane, Director of Sales and Marketing at the London Marriott and Executive Apartments West India Quay, Canary Wharf London. He has also had experience as a Deputy General Manager in hotels, a Director of Rooms and Director of Food and Beverage in various hotels, but started his professional life as a chef for eight years.

Luke Pearl joined the RNA in December 2017, bringing with him a strong depth of experience from the Hotel and Event precinct sectors. Having worked nationally and internationally over the past 20 years, Luke's Executive Management background includes Cluster Director of Revenue for Marriott Hotels UK South, Director of Operations at Tudor Park (a Marriott Hotel and Country Club), General Manager at Village Urban Resort London, General Manager at Stamford Plaza Brisbane and most recently General Manager at Accorhotels Sydney Olympic Park.

Barbara Perrott joined the RNA in December 2014. In the two years prior to her permanent appointment Ms Perrott provided consulting services to the RNA, assisting with change management strategies and advice. Ms Perrott brings nearly 40 years of experience in the Queensland Public Sector. She worked at the senior executive level specialising in corporate services management, leading organisational change, organisational development, human resource management and shared corporate services. Immediately prior to the RNA, she provided management consulting services to small/medium organisations aimed at improving leadership, strategy, culture and general management practices.