106 KONGRES IN FOCUS
WORKING IN OUR INDUSTRY IS LIKE ENDURANCE SPORT
Interview with Miha Kovačič, Director of the Slovenian Convention Bureau on the development of meetings tourism in Slovenia GORAZD ČAD //
PERSONAL ARCHIVE
Miha Kovačič has over 20 years of working experience in the travel industry. Tourism is part of the family being already the fourth generation working in tourism. Started with Kompas, the Destination Management Company and Professional Conference Organiser, later joined Grand Hotel Union, largest convention hotel in Ljubljana. For the last 12 years Miha holds position of CEO of the Slovenian Convention Bureau.
Q: What was your biggest challenge in developing Slovenia as a premier congress destination? The Slovenian Convention Bureau was established 14 years ago with the aim to make Slovenia more successful on the international congress, meetings and incentive travel market (Business Events). In cooperation with the Slovenian Tourist Board and our members we have developed considerably during this time. About the biggest challenge … I would say there was a mix of several challenges that were interconnected. On the one side, there was the government’s understanding of the opportunities for Slovenia on that market. On the other side, the supply side was not developed enough on a national level. Most of the destinations did not understand the needs of this industry. There was only a small number of players who were very active on that market. Things are changing positively on both sides. Business Events are well placed in the latest national strategy for tourism drawn up by the Ministry of Economy. Business Events are one of the three main tourism products of Slovenia. Also, the number of members has grown and more and more destinations are eager to host more business events in their destinations. They are increasingly aware of the differences, needs and expectations of meeting planners but also participants. New properties and refurbished hotels and venues are also looking strategically at this lucrative market. Q: What has excited you most this year? I understand that working in our industry is like endurance sport. You have to be focused, persistent, patient but also proactive. To name the exciting things, I would mention this year’s great success of the ICCA Association Meetings Programme held in Ljubljana this Summer. It was a great proof of the amazing cooperation of different stakeholders all with the aim of presenting our country through knowledge, innovation, cooperation, and professionalism. Q: What is your plan for the development of Slovenia as a MICE destination in the coming 5–10 years?
