“I’ve listened to some of the best speakers in the meetings industry today and have come away with new ideas that are directly relevant to me.”
Fran Rickenbach from the Association of Destination Management Executives International was one of the many association professionals who enjoyed an entirely new learning experience at Association Focus, held yesterday during Smart Monday at IMEX America.
For the first time this year, IMEX America, in conjunction with ASAE, hosted a dedicated Leadership stream for senior management, to address the challenges facing association leaders including governance, volunteer management, cyber security, membership engagement and growth.
John Graham, FASAE, CAE, President and CEO, ASAE, introduced a packed afternoon of sessions focusing on different aspects of leadership, designed to help association CEOs and senior executives to empower and motivate their boards, volunteers and staff to achieve growth and to achieve their strategic mission.
The Leadership stream really fits the bill as I sit on the board of my organization and the facts and figures gathered today will help inform and support my activities. Essentially, it’s free fact finding from some of the best in the business that also offers a fresh perspective,” explained Esther Banike from the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations.
Planning and organizing association meetings and events involves numerous challenges involving clever negotiation, a sensitive approach to cultural differences, and a creative flair to keep formats fresh and engaging for members. Case studies and examples of best practice were shared in the Meetings & Events stream of Association Focus. Martin Sirk, CEO, ICCA introduced a series of in-depth and interactive 40 minute sessions covering sponsorship, creativity and innovation and building relationships with convention bureaus.
“The interactive element of the Meetings & Events stream enabled me to share challenges with my peers. Even though our experiences are different, there is plenty of common ground and I made some useful connections. The topics discussed in the sessions have been very relevant to my business,” said Bruce Smith from the World Organization of Martial Arts Athletes.
Attendees and exhibitors could relax and network after the day’s education at the Association Evening cocktail reception which took place at the glamorous Foxtail outdoor nightclub (SLS, Las Vegas).
IMEX America is currently taking place at the Sands Expo and Convention Center at The Venetian® | The Palazzo® Las Vegas from October 18-20, 2016, preceded by Smart Monday on October 17.
eTN is a media partner for IMEX.
