The Women in Exhibitions (WiE) UK
Chapter is set to make a meaningful impact at The Meetings Show 2025,
showcasing their unwavering commitment to gender equality and professional
development in the exhibitions industry.
Caroline GourlayWith a series of initiatives and a
strong presence at the event, WiE UK is championing the advancement of women in a
sector where gender disparity remains a pressing issue.
Creating a space for connection
and growth
At The Meetings Show, WiE UK will
host a dedicated networking session designed to provide a welcoming space for
members to connect. Recognising the challenges faced by junior and mid-level
professionals as they navigate the industry, WiE UK's networking initiatives are
tailored to ease these transitions. “We want to ensure our members feel
supported and never left uncomfortable,” said Caroline Gourlay, president of
WiE UK and head of B2B exhibition sales at Excel.
In addition to the networking
session, WiE UK will actively participate in event panels and discussions,
offering a platform to address industry-wide issues, including gender disparity
in leadership roles.
Supporting tomorrow’s leaders
WiE UK is a proud supporter of the
Tomorrow’s Talent initiative, which aligns with the organisation’s
mission to nurture young talent and pave the way for more equitable gender
representation at leadership levels. By fostering career aspirations among
emerging professionals, WiE UK aims to bridge the gap between entry-level
enthusiasm and boardroom decision-making.
Currently, women hold only 20 per cent
of board positions in the UK's exhibitions sector, despite comprising 80 per
cent of entry-level roles. WiE UK's efforts, including training, mentoring, and
public advocacy, aim to address this imbalance by empowering women to rise
through the ranks.
Inclusive membership for all
WiE UK offers membership options
tailored to various industry needs, ensuring inclusivity across the exhibitions
ecosystem. From freelancers to large organisations, memberships grant access to
networking events, training programmes, and mentoring opportunities. “We’re
striving to represent every part of the exhibitions eco-system, including
suppliers and venues,” added Gourlay.
Looking to the future
Under Gourlay's leadership, WiE UK is focusing on expanding its membership base and impact across the industry. By
2026, the organisation aims to significantly increase female representation in
leadership roles, leveraging their comprehensive approach of awareness-raising,
strategic partnerships, and professional development programmes.
As WiE UK takes the stage at The
Meetings Show 2025, their message is clear: gender equality in exhibitions is
not just a goal but a necessity for a thriving, inclusive industry.
