Word from IAPCO CEO Martin Boyle

In May 2020, IAPCO formed the National PCO Associations Task Force with 9 (now 14) associations sharing and collaborating to advocate for PCOs around the globe. To date, the Task Force has created the PCO Perspective Guide to Advocacy with JMIC, produced and shared key messages regarding the re-igniting of economies through the re-opening of business events.

Thanks to their work, we were able to deliver this week a high-level Forum, asking 5 Tourism and Development Ministers to share their perspectives on post-pandemic recovery and the importance that our industry will play.

The IAPCO Ambassadors have recently delivered a number of critical publications that support both clients and our industry. The Association Bid Guidelines for Virtual and Hybrid Meetings was published in May 2021 alongside Best Cities Global Alliance board members and updates on the series of 5 white papers addressing new RFP considerations, recommendations for Bid Leaders and how to choose the right PCO will be released this summer.

This semester, IAPCO’s Educational Faculty has delivered a record number of educational programmes to meeting professionals from over 60 countries. The 2nd half of 2021 looks just as busy with seminars planned for Thailand and Malaysia as well as IAPCO Virtual EDGE Seminars in LATAM (9th-12th August) and APAC (11-14th October) and the IAPCO Impact Dialogues that are broadcast monthly.

It’s the coming together of people and organisations that share similar philosophies and commitments that make all of this possible.

Ori intimated in his President’s Message that we will continue to advocate for and are optimistic that international travel returns. Whilst doing so, IAPCO will also continue to commit to delivering education and supportive initiatives through collaborations and partnerships with people and groups that match our long-term objectives. Even more exciting times lie ahead…

Martin Boyle, CEO