Current Affairs

Race for Relevance in Post Pandemic Times: IMEX America Welcomes Association Professionals

21st June 2021

The excitement around the return of IMEX America continues to build with a wide range of exhibitors and buyers already confirmed, signalling a confident comeback for the business events community.

The international business events sector is set to gather at IMEX America from 9 – 11 November in its new location of Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.

A truly international range of suppliers is already confirmed and preparing to do business with buyers. They include destinations Italy, Argentina, Jamaica, Hawaii and Atlanta; venues Wyndham Hotel Group, Associated Luxury Hotels International, Universal Parks & Resorts as well as Worldwide Cruise Associates and United Airlines.

Association Leadership Forum

The learning opportunities, a cornerstone of the show, begin with Smart Monday, powered by MPI on November 8. The full day of free education also includes a dedicated event for association leaders – the Association Leadership Forum, created by ASAE. 

In a new workshop format for 2021, the Forum takes a direct look at the changed business climate in which associations now operate. Under the title The Race for Relevance in Post-Pandemic Times, the Association Leadership Forum explores how to tackle the fundamental changes accelerated by the pandemic, namely higher member expectations, increased member diversity, differing generational values and accelerated advances in technology. 

Authors of Race for Relevance

These factors have all challenged the relevance of traditional association structures and practices, reinforcing the need for radical change. Harrison Coerver and Mary Byers, co-authors of a seminal text for association leaders,  Race for Relevance, will lead the workshop, exploring concepts from their best-selling bookThey will be joined by a panel of executives, including Moira H. Edwards, President of Ellipsis Partners; Steve Smith, CEO, of the Association Management Center and Len Toenjes, President of the Associated General Contractors of Missouri, who will share their experience in rethinking the scope of their programmes and services.

“We know the landscape has shifted considerably and have brought together trusted experts from across the association world to offer guidance. Race for Relevance has been required reading for association leaders for many years and we’re delighted to have the authors join us to offer new perspectives and insights,” explains Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group. “We’re looking forward to welcoming association professionals back to IMEX America – our 10th edition – and are working closely with our new venue and host destination to create a landmark live show and an experience that’s safe, comfortable and of real business value with a classic touch of IMEX fun,” concludes Carina.

Exclusive Vegas room rates

With the city of Las Vegas expected to be busy in November the IMEX team is encouraging exhibitors and attendees to book their hotel rooms soon. IMEX’s venue partner, MGM Resorts, is offering exclusive rates for attendees and exhibitors across a range of MGM properties including Mandalay Bay. Accommodation options and booking information is here.

Registration is now open for IMEX America taking place 9 – 11 November at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas with Smart Monday, powered by MPI, on 08 November. To register – for free – click here.

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