Monday, August 19, 2024 IBTM World, the globally renowned trade show for the meetings and events industry, has unveiled the first details of its 2024 Association Leaders Forum. This industry-leading program, created in collaboration with the European Society of Association Executives (ESAE) and sponsored by the Amsterdam Convention Bureau, is designed to address the most pressing practical and strategic issues faced by associations today. The Association Leaders Forum is set to take place on the first day of IBTM World 2024, aligning with the event’s overarching theme, “People.
Power.Potential.” This theme will serve as a platform to explore how the power of people can be enhanced through the integration of new technologies.
The forum will specifically focus on how associations can strategically incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) into their operations and leverage digital tools to create more impactful, engaging, and financially sustainable conferences and events. Additionally, the program will underscore the importance of continuing efforts toward establishing a greener future within the industry. The 2024 Association Leaders Forum will delve into several critical topics that are shaping the future of the association sector.
One of the key areas of discussion will be the balance between executive governance and risk management, alongside the need for innovation and adaptation in the face of global challenges. By focusing on these themes, the forum aims to equip association leaders with the insights and strategies necessary to build a thriving association industry for the future. A significant portion of the forum will be dedicated to exploring the role of AI in associations’ strategic planning.
Attendees will learn how to harness the potential of AI and other digital tools to enhance the effectiveness of their events, making them more engaging and financially sustainable. The discussions will also address the ongoing commitment to sustainability, with a focus on creating environmentally responsible events that contribute to a greener future. In addition to technological advancements, the forum will tackle the human aspect of association management.
Sessions will explore strategies for preventing burnout among team members while ensuring they are equipped with the right tools and skills to perform efficiently and find their work rewarding. This holistic approach aims to foster a healthy work environment where association professionals can thrive. Another timely topic on the agenda is how associations can prepare for significant electoral shifts in the coming year.
The forum will provide insights into guiding members and staff through the complexities of the geopolitical environment, ensuring that associations remain resilient and adaptable in the face of change. The Association Leaders Forum will feature a lineup of esteemed speakers, including Martin Boyle, CEO of IAPCO; Liesbeth Switten, Secretary General at AIB-Association of Issuing Bodies and ESAE Vice-President; Dianna Steinbach, Senior Vice-President of Growth at the Institute of Management Accountants; Bobby Peralta, CEO of the Philippine Council of Associations & Association Executives; Dennis Speet, Managing Director of the Amsterdam Convention Bureau; and Cecilia Delgado Molina, Executive Secretary of the International Sociological Association. These industry leaders will share their expertise through panel discussions, debates, and case studies, offering attendees valuable insights into the latest trends and challenges in the association sector.
The interactive sessions will encourage participation and knowledge exchange, making the forum a dynamic learning environment. In addition to the formal sessions, the day will include several networking opportunities where attendees can forge new connections and strengthen existing relationships with industry peers. These networking breaks are designed to facilitate meaningful interactions and collaborations, further enhancing the value of the forum for all participants.
Claudia Hall, IBTM World Exhibition Director, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming forum, stating, “We can’t wait for attendees to discover the exciting programme we have planned for them at this year’s Association Leaders Forum. At IBTM World, we strive above all else to always provide genuine value, and tangible take-homes, for delegates. This year’s Forum does just that, supporting association professionals to build an association sector that is not only at the forefront of advancement, but which prospers because of it.
” Liesbeth Switten, ESAE Vice-President, also highlighted the significance of the forum, noting, “This is the second year in a row we’ve partnered with IBTM World to design its Association Leaders Forum. As the beating heart of the global events community, it is the ideal location for Association professionals to come together to learn, debate, feel inspired, and immerse themselves in the topics which matter most to them. This year’s programme doesn’t shy away from the big issues, in fact, it welcomes them.
Together, we will create an Association sector fit for the rest of the 21st century and beyond, and the ideas and voices of our Association professionals will be vital in realising this vision.” Designed in collaboration with ESAE and curated with input from its members, the Association Leaders Forum has become a key annual event for association leaders worldwide. With an expected attendance of approximately 130 association professionals, the forum will provide a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, learn from peers, and advance knowledge and best practices within the sector.
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