Delegates at the ICCA UK & Ireland Chapter Annual Conference 2020 demonstrated resilience in the face of the coronavirus outbreak, sharing knowledge and experience and focusing on long-term success.
The event, which took place at ICC Wales against a backdrop of increased challenges due to the outbreak, provided an opportunity and outlet for positive discussion and forward-looking debate among the attendees.
Diane Waldron, ICCA UK & Ireland chapter chair and sales and marketing director at the QEII Centre, said: “It would be impossible to meet as an industry now and not consider the challenges we are all facing due to the coronavirus. It was incredibly important for us to gather at this time, share experiences and identify both solutions and opportunities that can help us all move forward. The atmosphere and attitude amongst delegates was one of resilience and a desire to look ahead. Through a combination of flexibility and a supportive approach to the wider industry, clients and each other as individuals, we can forge ahead with plans for the future.
“Whilst there was talk of cancellations and immediate impact, it was recognised by all that many association events are booking two, three, even five or ten years ahead. The immediate future undoubtably holds challenges, but we must remain focused on long term success and this conference demonstrated an industry wide desire to do that.”
Dennis Speet, chief operating officer of ICCA also attended the event and added: “ICCA has just announced a significant campaign in partnership with AIPC, UFI and SISO to tackle the threat of the coronavirus. This conference was a superb opportunity to highlight the fact that events are still happening and delivering great outcomes for attendees. As an industry we are sharing stories, ideas and best practice that will ensure long term success. Events remain the best possible option for knowledge sharing and it was a pleasure to see the UK & Ireland Chapter so resolute.”
As well as the air of resilience, the two days included education, personal development, case studies of successful association events and networking opportunities.
In addition to the busy programme, the conference included the final of a competition created to reward newcomers to the industry. The winner was from Jill Sinclair from VisitAberdeenshire, who will receive registration, travel and accommodation to the 2020 ICCA World Congress.
Speakers at the event included:
• Diane Waldron, chair of ICCA UK&I
• Sven Bossu, head of innovation, European Society for Radiotherapy & Oncology (ESTRO)
• Ian Edwards, CEO, Celtic Manor and ICC Wales
• Heledd Williams, head of business events, Visit Wales
• Lowri Morgan – athlete, adventurer and presenter
• Jon Davies, Levy UK managing director
More than 100 venues, destinations and suppliers attended the event, including more than 40 first time attendees.
M&IT editor Paul Harvey is a journalist with more than 15 years of experience. He began his career in the local press, working for various titles across the north. Since joining M&IT in 2013, he has become a trusted and respected voice in the sector, championing event professionals and reporting on all aspects of the events industry for the brand.
