With over 20 years experience in the hospitality industry, specialising in marketing, eventing and entertainment, she is well placed to assist with the plans to grow the business and take it to a new level.
“I am delighted to welcome Debbie to the team. Her experience and reputation in the events and entertainment industry is second to none and I am truly excited for the next chapter in our business journey” says Douglas.
Having worked for the Tsogo Sun group as Entertainment and Events Manager for eight years, Debbie was instrumental in negotiating events deals such as Celine Dion’s Taking Chances World Tour, Madame Zingara and Taste of Joburg, amongst others. Furthermore, her involvement with the Teatro at Montecasino saw her working with top Theatre Producers such as Pieter Toerien and Hazel Feldman on international theatre brands the likes of Phantom of the Opera, War Horse, Cats and Mamma Mia! to name a few.
More recently Debbie held an operational role within the Tsogo Sun Group as the Marketing Manager for Montecasino, which she occupied for five years. In this capacity, she was exposed to managing a large number of employees at various levels and was involved firsthand in the implementation of events such as The Coffee and Chocolate Expo, The Caravela Festival and The Oyster Wine and Food Festival.
It was in this role that Debbie had the opportunity to work closely with Andrew and his team on the TOPS at SPAR Bierfest and TOPS at SPAR Wine Show. “The team really impressed me, not only with the quality of events produced, but also the professionalism with which the team managed the venue partnership. For these reasons, it was a very easy decision to make when Andrew approached me,” said Combrink.
Andrew will continue to focus on new business as well as partnership and sponsor relationships, while Debbie will lead the team to their full potential focussing on the sales and marketing portfolios of the business.
“Having been in corporate for many years, I am eager to get started and to make an impact in a more entrepreneurial environment,” says Combrink about the new challenge.
For more information, kindly contact Elriza Theron, elriza@wineshow.co.za, +27 72 443 3067.