Meetings speaks to Gill Gibbs — wife, life partner, and business partner of the late Andrew Gibbs of Concept G Global — reflecting on a life built on love, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the industry he helped shape.
There are individuals in the MICE industry whose presence extends far beyond the projects they deliver. They leave behind something deeper — a way of doing things, a standard, a legacy. Andrew Gibbs was one of those individuals.
Through the heartfelt reflections of Gill Gibbs, we honour not only a respected industry leader, but a partner, a mentor, and a man whose life was anchored in purpose, passion, and love.
MEETINGS TALKS TO GILL GIBBS
Andrew clearly meant so much to so many people. In your own words, how would you describe him — both as a person and as a partner in life?
Andrew was a man of many layers and facets. He loved researching and expanding his knowledge and skills, keeping up with contemporary, real-world developments and then unpacking their context and impact in our world and environment. He was analytical and pragmatic. He was a private person, introspective and a deep thinker. I so admired his intelligence and business acumen – there was nothing he could not do when he set his mind to it.
He loved our rescue cats and was an excellent cat daddy. Having cats in his life grounded him and gave him true purpose outside of the crazy, busyness that is our industry.
He was deeply passionate about the industry, uplifting individuals and equipping them with the necessary training, knowledge and skills to develop and further themselves. He enjoyed realising creative and challenging projects and making beautiful things with our skilled artisans and craftsmen. He was an advocate for ensuring that the industry code of conduct was followed through on every level and maintained, and in that industry leaders stand up for what is right and just.
He loved me with every fibre of his being and would give me moonbeams if I so desired.He got me. I got him. And it just worked.
Andrew’s story is one of depth — of intellect meeting creativity, and structure evolving into something far more expressive. His journey into the industry may have started in finance, but it was in the world of exhibitions and events where he truly found his rhythm.
Can you share a bit about Andrew’s journey, how did he find his way into the industry and what drew him to it?
Andrew was a qualified CA and forensic auditor. He worked for one of the most prestigious auditing firms in JHB. He eventually joined the industry through working for Intermesse in the accounts department (their scope of work included shopfitting, retail projects and exhibition projects). He soon gravitated towards operations and production and found his true passion. He was trained by some of the best that the industry knew; Keith Lydon and Hans Zwets. He then joined Z-Displays. I met him when I joined Z-Displays in Sales when I moved from the Organising side of the industry to that of the contracting side. Z-Displays and Shell Systems were sister companies that amalgamated to form Oasys Innovations which was eventually sold to GL Events. Andrew and I left in 2010 and founded ConCept G Exhibitions & Events.
Together, Andrew and Gill built more than a business — they built a partnership rooted in shared ambition, mutual respect, and a deep understanding of each other’s strengths. Concept G Exhibitions & Events became a reflection of that partnership.
What were some of the defining moments or milestones in his career that stood out to you?
When we left Oasys, Andrew project managed the South African Pavilion at the World Expo 2010 in Shanghai, China for and on behalf of Oasys. This project was one of the highlights of his career; outside of the actual building of the building from bricks and mortar phase to the fully kitted out interior, the project itself was a 9-month activation with theme changes and events and he was instrumental in rolling all of these out. Another highlight was designing, building and activating the Robertson’s Spices Reinvention Kitchen – we built a fully kitted out restaurant building on the piazza square at Melrose Arch and the project ran for 5 days with lunch and dinner settings daily – with each night deshelling and re-kitting out the building in keeping with the theme of the related country from which the spices originate. Andrew received several awards over the span of his career and he was exceptionally proud of the EXSA Chairman’s Award and being inducted into the EXSA Hall of Fame. He was an integral part of the OEC – the OSPI Executive Committee of Octanorm Services Partner International.
His work spoke volumes — but it was his values that truly defined him. In an industry built on deadlines and delivery, Andrew built his reputation on trust, consistency, and doing things the right way.
What did the events and MICE industry mean to Andrew on a personal level?
Being in the Service of others, upskilling and uplifting others, creativity, passion, special projects and giving back to the industry, ensuring its longevity and sustainability.
How did he approach his work and relationships within the industry — what made his way of doing things different?
Trust meant a great deal to Andrew. This took time to achieve with people he served with and worked with through staying the distance, respect, consistency, stepping up, taking ownership, reliability and efficiency.
Beyond the industry, beyond the accolades, was a man who found meaning in life’s quieter moments — in nature, in stillness, and in connection.
Outside of his work, what were some of the qualities or characteristics that people may not have seen, but that defined who he was?
He was an avid fly fisherman. Being on the edge of the water provided him calm, clarity and perspective. Many good and great decisions came from these quiet, concentrated moments. It is the very place he is now laid to rest.
He loved a good movie and he had a passion for good food. He loved the idea of rescuing animals (especially cats) in our retirement years. Before COVID, we dived many great dives in Mauritius and the Maldives – the Maldives is where he did his diving course (I had already qualified before meeting Andrew) and we were both Nitrox qualified. We had many wonderful and unusual experiences that I will carry with me always. Our holidays always had their nuances and these are cherished moments for me. He loved order and neat, clean surroundings. We were kindreds.
At the heart of this tribute lies a love story — one of partnership in its truest form.
Are there any small moments or memories that you feel truly capture who Andrew was?
The first time he asked me to marry him. This happened a couple of times. Both were very special and I will hold these memories dear to my heart. He wrote me poetry, words of love and outpourings of his true and most raw, honest feelings for me.
Love – being in love – pure love was the very core and foundation of our bond and relationship. It was the only way we both love. We were soulmates, lovers, besties and equally footed business partners. We were the most important things to each other. He respected what I bring to the table and vice versa. We were inseparable and even small, short moments when we were apart felt wrong, out of place.
Andrew’s legacy is not only what he built, but what he stood for — a code of conduct, a way of being, and a standard that will continue to guide those who worked alongside him.
What kind of legacy do you feel Andrew leaves behind — both within the industry and personally?
To evoke and instil TRUST. In all things. Resilience even in the most trying of situations. Responsibility and accountability. Staying true to your convictions. Seeing every task through to the end.
What would Andrew have wanted to be remembered for?
His code.
The love he had for me and our family – including the fur babies.
The knowledge and wealth of experience he imparted to our team.
The many, varied projects that he was instrumental in realising.
A FINAL REFLECTION
In an industry that moves fast and demands much, Andrew Gibbs stood as a reminder of what truly matters — integrity, trust, and the way we show up for one another.
His legacy lives on in the people he uplifted, the standards he upheld, and the love he shared so openly.
And perhaps, in Gill’s own words, the most powerful message of all:
“Be mindful and respectful. Look to yourself and enable change for the greater good. Do the succession planning, instil the learnings, train, educate, teach and nurture. It will be the best reflection of you.”
IN LOVING MEMORY
A life of purpose.
A partnership of equals.
A legacy of trust.
Andrew Gibbs will always remain part of the fabric of this industry — and forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
From Us, With Gratitude and Remembrance
As a team, we felt it important to honour the life and legacy of Andrew Gibbs.
Andrew was not only a respected leader in the MICE industry, but someone who lived by strong values — integrity, trust, and a genuine commitment to uplifting others. Through Gill’s heartfelt reflections, we are reminded of the person behind the professional, and the love and purpose that shaped his journey. We are truly grateful to Gill for sharing such personal memories with us.
Andrew’s legacy will continue to inspire — and will not be forgotten.
