The Association of British Professional Conference Organisers (ABPCO) has appointed Karen Edwards, senior events specialist at Bright Events, and Jessica Letters, head of events at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, as its new co-chairs.
The appointments were confirmed at ABPCO's annual general meeting, where members also reviewed a year that saw continued membership growth, record revenues, expanded training opportunities and strong attendance at the association's flagship events.
Edwards and Letters will serve a two-year term, succeeding outgoing co-chairs Pauline Beattie and Sammy Connell.
Letters said: "I'm really excited about the opportunity. I've seen first-hand how much amazing work is undertaken by ABPCO members and I'm keen for us to continue supporting our member groups and the wider membership. We have an incredibly engaged community, and I'm looking forward to helping ensure ABPCO continues to deliver meaningful value, professional development and opportunities for everyone involved."
Edwards added: "I love what ABPCO does and the membership is so friendly, welcoming, energetic and positive. I can't wait to get started. We’re taking up our Chairs at an exciting time and we’re passionate about building on the fantastic work already underway, strengthening our educational offering and supporting event professionals as they continue to raise standards across our industry."
Letters has led events at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, including its International Congress, where she has championed accessibility and inclusive event design. Edwards has delivered major events including COP26, COP28, the Conservative Party Conference, international conferences and exhibitions.
Looking ahead, the pair said they will focus on strengthening ABPCO's educational programme, enhancing the value of its flagship events and supporting the association's specialist taskforces and member groups.
Matt Stalker, executive director of ABPCO, said: "It's an exciting time to be part of ABPCO. We're a growing organisation with more members and an expanding programme of CPD and support services for our community. I'm looking forward to working with Jessica and Karen as ABPCO enters the next phase of its development.
"Their combined experience across association events, large-scale conference delivery, operational excellence and member engagement makes them ideally placed to help shape ABPCO's future. Together, we'll continue supporting our members, championing best practice and ensuring the Association remains at the forefront of professional development for the events industry."
