The Association of Event Organisers (AEO) has launched a new working group for independent event organisers.
The private independent entrepreneur (PIE) working group is set
to meet for the first time ahead of the AEO Conference in Manchester on Wednesday 4 September. AEO is
already home to many independently-owned organisers, and this new group will
enable them to meet, collaborate, shape policies, and help highlight the
sector's importance to the government, regulators, and other associations.
Chris Skeith OBE, chief executive of AEO, said: "The launch
of the PIE working group recognises the increasingly important part
independently-owned organisers play in AEO membership and the broader industry.
Connecting this community to encourage collaboration and sharing of best practice
will help support their growth and create a strong foundation for these
organisers to thrive. This group will provide the crucial support and
representation they need to not only survive but to innovate and expand,
ultimately benefiting the entire industry.”
James Lee, chief executive and co-founder of Step Connect2 and
chair of the group said: “It’s great
to see the AEO launching this new working group for independent event
organisers. Over the last few years the independent event organiser community
has grown and it’s great to see and be a part of the next stage in how the
community comes together to learn and share best practice. I urge other
independent organisers to join the AEO and get involved with this working group
as together our voice is so much more powerful and can truly be representative
of the fabulous community we’re part of”.
Purpose and mission
The PIE working group has several key goals:
- Collaborating and sharing best practice
- Shaping
policies: Influence policies that affect the sector.
- Raising
awareness: Ensure the government and other bodies understand the value of
independent event organisers.
- Supporting
growth: Protect the industry's future and explore new growth
opportunities.
Key responsibilities and initiatives
The PIE working group will collaborate with the UK organisers group on:
- Research:
Conduct studies to show the size and impact of AEO activities.
- Growth
opportunities: Identify success stories to help grow events.
- Industry
collaboration: Work with venues and suppliers through meetings, networking
events, and the annual UK AEO/AEV CEO Summit.
- Government
lobbying: Help raise the sector's profile with government officials.
Building strong relationships
A key aim of the PIE working group is to strengthen relationships with
other industry stakeholders. By building a strong network of independent
organisers, they can support each other, share knowledge, and grow together.
For more information and to get involved, please visit www.aeo.org.uk
