Industry remembers Ruth Ellis
It is somehow appropriate, although no less distressing, that the passing of Ruth Ellis – one of our industry’s most respected people has occurred at the start of AIME 2007 – an event she loved and was part of for many years.
Since news broke of Ruth’s passing on the weekend, tributes have flowed from industry colleagues and friends.
ICMS Managing Director Barrie Markey remembers Ruth as a good friend, mentor and colleague. “Ruth loved this industry and was always positive in her attitude and generous with her time. Never one to shirk a responsibility or a challenge, Ruth embraced life to the fullest,” said Barrie.
Leigh Harry, Chief Executive of the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre worked with Ruth as part of the Melbourne Convention Centre (then World Congress Centre) team for several years in the early and mid 90’s.
“Ruth helped take our business to levels of excellence we did not think were possible and in turn had a major influence on the broader meetings industry,” he said. “Ruth also made a major contribution to many industry associations and her dedication drove growth and excellence in both the industry and the people who were privileged to work with her.
“Ruth’s passion, her character and her strength were all critical elements of a wonderful person who will be sadly missed but warmly remembered by all who are involved in our industry,” said Leigh.
“A class act”, is how MCVB Chief Executive Sandra Chipchase describes Ruth Ellis. “To know Ruth was to know her wit, charm and intelligence and everyone who worked with her respected her professionalism and humour,” she said.
Ruth was the quintessential industry all-rounder having held senior roles in a variety of organisations from Sales Manager at the Melbourne Hilton to Director of Sales and Marketing at the World Congress Centre Melbourne.
Later, Ruth established her own marketing company, Management Expertise Group representing the Brisbane Convention Bureau and it was during that time that she also became Executive Director of the Australian Incentive Association, establishing it as an effective and professional body.
In recent years, Ruth waged a personal war against cancer. Her tenacious drive to beat the disease had her exploring every available treatment, determined to exhaust all options. Ruth lost her battle on Sunday, 11th February 2007.
John Alwyn-Jones
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