NewcastleGateshead Initiative is searching for someone to head up its convention bureau team following the announcement that head of business tourism, Jessica Roberts, will leave at the end of the year.

Roberts, who has led the team for four years and secured events worth an estimated £5.5m to the local economy, is emigrating to Australia .

Sarah Stewart, NewcastleGateshead Initiative, chief executive said: “We are extremely sorry to see Jessica leave – her knowledge, expertise, contacts and sheer enthusiasm and drive will all be greatly missed, but we wish her all the best in her new adventures.

“The hunt now begins for Jessica’s replacement; we’re looking for a really exceptional individual who can lead the convention bureau team, maximise business for NewcastleGateshead and represent the destination in the MICE sector locally, nationally and internationally.”

Among many other achievements, Roberts oversaw the launch of the bureau’s successful Conference Ambassador Programme in late 2003, which has been instrumental in securing association conferences including the International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing and the International Colour Association.

Roberts said: “I feel really privileged to have held this role, which I genuinely believe is one of the most exciting and inspiring in the business tourism sector. This is a really exciting time in the development of NewcastleGateshead and I have no doubt that it is going to continue to go from strength to strength.”

Pictured: Australia-bound Jessica Roberts