Join us this December as we celebrate 2025 with an evening of insights, conversation, and connection at our Brisbane office.
We are delighted to welcome Damien De Groot CPMgr CMgr FIML, who will share insights from his extensive leadership career – from real-world successes to candid reflections on challenges faced while leading teams, driving continuous improvement, and managing the rising expectations of diverse stakeholders across some of Australia’s and the world’s best venues.
In this engaging session, we’ll explore:
- The journey of continuous improvement
- Managing ever-growing stakeholder expectations
- Leading effectively in the for-purpose sector
Damien will also highlight how purpose-driven leadership can shape strong organisational culture, enhance sustainability efforts, and build lasting resilience across industries.
The evening will also be a chance to celebrate our tenured members and connect with IML members and the broader leadership community as we close out our 2025 event series and look forward to 2026.
We cannot wait to welcome you!
Event Speaker
Damien De Groot CPMgr CMgr FIML
Short Bio
Damien De Groot has more than fifteen years of senior leadership experience in venues and precincts across Australia and abroad. Throughout his career, he has developed an extensive understanding of strategic management to deliver uncompromised customer service for iconic venues. Damien has a diversity of business knowledge from senior roles across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors and most recently was the Director, Fed Square Commercial & Operations as part of the Melbourne Arts Precinct Corporation (MAP Co).
In 2014, Damien was honoured to achieve the professional designation of Accredited Venue Manager (AVM) and was further offered a scholarship to complete the Leadership Institute (LI) in 2019 through the Venue Management Association. Last year, he completed a Graduate Certificate in Global Business and is working his way towards a Master of Business Administration (MBA). In addition, Damien is a Chartered Manager (CMgr) with the International Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and a Fellow of the Institute of Managers and Leaders (FIML).
Damien has also held a board role at the not-for-profit Yarra River Business Association (YRBA), where he played an active part in strategic initiatives that promote economic and cultural vitality along Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River.
Damien’s professional background includes extensive experience presenting to boards and contributing to strategic discussions at leading cultural venues such as the State Library of Queensland, Brisbane Powerhouse, and Melbourne Arts Precinct Corporation (MAP Co). His career has consistently centred around venues and institutions that foster creativity, sport, culture, and entertainment—spaces that are essential to community well-being.
Cost
Complimentary Members
A$35 Non-Members
Book your ticket today
| Name | Date | Time | Location | Member | Non Member |
| Purpose-driven leadership: Then, now and looking ahead | Wednesday 3 December 2025 | 05:30 pm - 07:00 pm | Brisbane |
