Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre Appoints John Burke Deputy General Manager

May 9, 2017

The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (the Centre) has appointed John Burke as its new Deputy General Manager.

Burke is a senior venue operations professional with more than 25 years’ experience working across all areas of venue and event management including leadership, commercial management, construction liaison, vendor management, programme management, facility operations & engineering, and audio visual (AV) & technical systems infrastructure & development.

Welcoming Burke to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre family, the Centre’s General Manager, Alan Pryor, said, “We are delighted to have John onboard. We are confident that the Centre will benefit immensely from his strong technology background to further enhance our state-of-the-art information technology (IT) and AV facilities to better meet our clients’ needs. We also look forward to utilising his knowledge and experience in operations to support us in delivering affordable and personalised services to our clients.”

As Deputy General Manager, he is responsible for overseeing the Centre’s day-to-day operations including managing the AV and technical services, catering, event co-ordination and exhibition services, to name a few.

Prior to joining the Centre, Burke was Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre’s (OCEC) Director of Operations, where he was responsible for event operations, AV and production, IT, building services and asset management.

During the construction and pre-opening period of OCEC, he also assumed the responsibilities of Technical Services Manager, where he provided operator input on design and modifications. Before his time at OCEC, he was the Director of IT at Qatar National Convention Centre for four years.

Holding a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Computer Science from Wolverhampton University, Burke kicked off his career with the NEC Group, where he gained over 15 years of comprehensive IT, technical and operational knowledge.

During this time, he was involved in the infrastructure and technical design of Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre, the Convention Centre Dublin and LG Arena, amongst others.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.