This year’s forum promises to provide association leaders with a platform to explore strategic approaches to governance, risk management, and innovation, all while addressing the global challenges shaping the future of the sector.
Taking place on day one of IBTM World, the forum aligns with this year’s overarching theme, People.Power.Potential, which emphasizes the role of people and technology in driving meaningful change. One of the key topics will be how associations can integrate AI and other digital tools into their strategic planning, leveraging them to enhance the impact, engagement, and financial sustainability of their conferences and events. Furthermore, the forum will explore how to maintain a commitment to sustainability, ensuring a greener future for the meetings and events industry.
Another important focus will be on preventing burnout and ensuring that team members have the right tools and skills to work effectively in a rewarding environment. With major electoral shifts on the horizon, the forum will also address how associations can navigate the changing political landscape, providing guidance to members and staff on staying resilient amid these shifts.
The Association Leaders Forum will feature an impressive roster of speakers, including notable names like Martin Boyle (CEO, IAPCO), Liesbeth Switten (Secretary General at AIB and ESAE Vice-President), and Dianna Steinbach (Senior Vice-President Growth, Institute of Management Accountants), among others. Their insights will drive engaging panel discussions and case studies, providing association professionals with real-world examples of excellence in association management.
A major highlight of the day will be the networking opportunities that punctuate the sessions, allowing attendees to forge valuable connections with peers and industry leaders. With a community of around 130 association professionals, the forum promises to be an invaluable space for exchanging ideas and advancing knowledge in a collaborative environment.
Liesbeth Switten, ESAE Vice-President, expressed the importance of this annual gathering, stating, “As the beating heart of the global events community, IBTM World is the perfect place for association professionals to come together to learn, debate, and engage with the topics that matter most. This year’s programme doesn’t shy away from the big issues. In fact, it embraces them, ensuring that we collectively build an association sector fit for the 21st century and beyond.”
For more information on IBTM World, please visit: https://www.ibtmworld.com/en-gb.html.