HQ48

HEADQUARTERS E U R O P E , M I D D L E - E A S T, A F R I C A

the EMEA Magazine for Association Executives Supported by ESAE, European Society of Association Executives, and UIA, Union of International Associations, Europe

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Meeting Media Company Meetings Industry Publishers Afgiftekantoor 2800 Mechelen 1 Bureau de D茅p么t 2800 Malines 1 Published 6 times a year: March, April, June, September, November & December Edition February 2012 - P3A9029

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DESTINATIONS WITH A TWIST ESAE & UIA WHAT IT IS LIKE TO BE AN ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE

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5775

ISSUE PUBLICATION # MONTH TOPICS

HQ > CONTENTS

COLOPHON

MARCEL’S COMMENT

HQ OR HEADQUARTERS IS A NICHE PUBLICATION FOR EUROPEAN AND INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATIONS HEADQUARTERED IN BRUSSELS AND ALL MAJOR EUROPEAN CITIES DEALING WITH THE ORGANIZATION OF WORLDWIDE CONGRESSES. IT IS PUBLISHED 6 TIMES A YEAR. CIRCULATION IS 5000 COPIES.

ANOTHER WORLD, A FASCINATING WORLD

Subscriptions Subscription amounts to 65 EUR (all incl.) in Belgium, 75 EUR (all incl.) in the EU and 95 EUR (all incl.) in the rest of the world.

The subscription entails 6 editions of HQ per year including the special edition Meeting Trends, as well as an online access to the website.

To subscribe: www.headquartersmagazine.com Editor in Chief Marcel A.M.Vissers T: +32 (0)3 226 88 81 marcel@headquartersmagazine.com Managing Director Cécile Caiati-Koch T: +32 (0)2 761 70 52 cecile@headquartersmagazine.com Account Manager - International Sales Kelvin Lu T: +32(0)761 70 59 kelvin@headquartersmagazine.com Managing Editor Rémi Dévé T: +32 (0)2 761 70 58 remi@headquartersmagazine.com Cover Joe Mabel Design WALLRUS, Kortrijk T: +32 (0)56 24 94 44 info@wallrus.be Print Cartim - Destelbergen Supported by ESAE and UIA Address 59, rue René Declercq B - 1150 Brussels (Belgium) T: +32 (0)2 761 70 50 F: +32 (0)2 761 70 51 www.headquartersmagazine.com

It reads ‘EMEA’ on the cover of each edition of Headquarters.

This means that the magazine isn’t only distributed in Europe (on paper and in digital form), but also in the Middle East and in Africa. Today, something is really happening in the African association world. The number of African associations is rising, and they’re talked about much more than before.

There is now a fully-fledged Association Day (this year, even two days) at Meetings Africa in Johannesburg. While attending the last two editions, I witnessed a very lively gathering of about 20 African associations discussing specific topics - it’s often quite different to an IMEX

or EIBTM Association Day. Another world, a fascinating world. I find it heartwarming to receive a newsletter from the Port Managers Association of Eastern and Southern Africa regularly. Just a few years ago, this never happened. In Rwanda a new convention centre is being built. Perhaps we partially created the right conditions for the big breakthrough ourselves, when we decided, along South African Tourism, to map 750 headquarters of African associations (international as well as regional ones), spread across 52 African countries.

It must be said that the role of ICCA’s African Chapter is decisive in this development.

MARCEL A.M. VISSERS Editor in Chief

I’m already looking forward to the meeting in Maputo in July 2012. African associations are on the move, all across the continent. (More info on Meetings Africa here: www.meetingsafrica.co.za

» READ MORE ON WWW.HEADQUARTERSMAGAZINE.COM

Responsible Publisher Meeting Media Company Marcel A.M. Vissers Mechelseplein 23, bus 1 B - 2000 Antwerpen (Belgium)

Cover picture: Building of the Romanian Architects' Association

CONTENTS GENERAL Rémi Dévé

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Cécile Caiati-Koch

NEWS IMEX ASSOCIATION PORTRAIT IT&CM CHINA MEETINGS FOREST

4 7 8 37 38

ESAE & UIA HQ magazine sets great store by sustainable development and therefore chose responsible FSC® certified paper which comes from a controlled source.

More info: www.fsc.org ® FSC, A.C. FSC-SECR-0045

THE ART OF BEING AN ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE

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DESTINATION UPDATE MALAYSIA MELBOURNE SOUTH AFRICA QATAR RIMINI LAUSANNE FRANCE JAPAN

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HEADQUARTERS 3

HQ

> HEADQUARTERS NEWS

BCEC ON GREY STREET OFFICIALLY OPENED The newly opened BCEC on Grey Street, the five level expansion of the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC), has changed the Australian landscape for meetings and events and is already making an impact on the global business events market.

Boutique in concept, dramatic in architecture and already successfully attracting an increased share of international and national conference events, BCEC on Grey Street is the latest showpiece of convention infrastructure in Australia. Delivering a new dimension to the industry’s offering in Australia, BCEC on Grey Street was designed to meet an evolving market for smaller and medium sized meetings with two auditoria for 400 and 600 with accompanying foyer space, speakers’ facilities and private boardrooms, allowing delegates to ‘own’ the floor for their conference. www.bcec.com.au

BCEC On Grey Street - Plaza Auditorium Foyer and Atrium

ADRIAN EVANS JOINS NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD CONVENTION BUREAU The former International Association Sales Manager at Edinburgh International Conference Centre Adrian has taken the helm at Evans NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau following the departure of Jessica Roberts as Head of Business Tourism in December. Adrian Evans joins the Bureau as Senior Business Tourism Manager and brings with him in depth knowledge of the association market and experience working in some of the UK’s largest conference and events centres. www.newcastlegateshead.com/conferences

DARWIN CONVENTION CENTRE GLOWS WITH GOLD 2012 started well for the team at the Darwin Convention Centre - it was awarded by the

HEADQUARTERS 4

AIPC with Gold Certification, the highest possible achievement in its Quality Standards Program. Darwin Convention Centre successfully completed a rigorous external audit, joining a select group of only 18 AIPC convention facilities to have successfully achieved this certification to date. The Program is notable in that it is an industry-specific certification addressing the unique factors that distinguish convention centre operations. www.darwinconvention.com.au

Darwin Convention Centre

VIENNA CONVENTION BUREAU TO CERTIFY GREEN MEETINGS The Vienna Convention Bureau supports sustainable action and environmentally friendly conference tourism. As a licensee of the Austrian EcoLogo, it is now authorized not only to assist conferences in matters relating to environmental impact, but also to certify them as ‘Green Meetings’. The ecological footprint left by a congress has long been an important issue for congress

Vienna

> HEADQUARTERS NEWS

organizers and congress destinations worldwide. For a long time now, the Vienna Tourist Board’s Vienna Convention Bureau (VCB) has advocated sustainability and responsible treatment of the environment. www.vienna.convention.at

HKCEC WELCOMES 35 NEW EXHIBITIONS AND MAJOR CONFERENCES IN 2012

convention delegates. The new booking tool allows the convention organisers to direct their participants to a dedicated online booking and ticketing site for all air travel contracted under Star Alliance Conventions Plus. It complements the existing traditional fulfilment channels. Organisers can use the new tool to inform the delegates of travel options offered by the participating airlines for the selected convention. Delegates can then check real time availability and fares for their required itinerary, book the appropriate flights, and purchase the corresponding ticket. www.staralliance.com/conventionsplus

UMBRIA CONVENTION BUREAU ESTABLISHED IN ITALY

HKCEC

The Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) is celebrating an excellent start to 2012, having scheduled five new exhibitions and 30 major conferences for the coming year. This is on top of the around 100 annually recurring anchor exhibitions it will once again host, including 11 which are the largest of their kind in the world or in Asia.

The 30 major conferences are expected to bring over 30,000 delegates, experts and government officials from all over the world to Hong Kong and the HKCEC. They cover a diverse range of topics, from medical science, dentistry, clinical pharmacy and yoga to bridge and tunnel construction, acoustics, finance and engineering. Of the total, 15 are international conferences and six are new to the HKCEC. www.hkcec.com

STAR ALLIANCE CONVENTIONS PLUS GOES ONLINE Star Alliance, the way the Earth connects, has become the first global airline alliance to offer online booking and ticketing to

Umbria, the green heart of Italy, has established the Umbria Convention Bureau.

Originally a private consortium named Umbria Congressi, within the next few months, through agreements with public institutions, it will formally assume the format of a Convention Bureau. Founding members are two consortia: UmbriaSì (established fifty-fifty by Confcommercio - the Italian traders’ association - and Federalberghi Perugia, the local association of hotel owners), improving the image of the area and enhancing the incoming, and Umbria Export (by Confindustria, the Italian industrials’ federation), whose core business is the study of personalized services for regional companies planning to root in foreign markets. umbriaconventionbureau.it

TALLINN CONFERENCE PROMOTES GREENER, CLEANER WORLD Let's Do It!, the famously successful, grassroots, trash cleanup initiative that Estonians have taken global, held its latest worldwide conference in Tallinn on January 13-15 with the aim of preparing for this year's projects. The Let's Do It! movement started in May 2008 when as many as 50,000 Estonians mobilized to remove illegal garbage from roadsides, forests and towns. Over the course of the five-hour

Tallinn

event, the volunteers managed to collect 10,000 tons of waste. The Estonian-born concept has since spread to 85 countries on five continents. Organizers from 45 countries gathered at the Let's Do It World conference, held at the Radisson Blu Hotel Olümpia, to share ideas and experiences in the run-up to World Cleanup 2012. www.ecb.ee

2011-2012 MEETINGS INDUSTRY FAIRS WORLDWIDE: MAKE YOUR CHOICE!

GIBTM // 26-28 March 2012, Abu Dhabi // www.gibtm.com IT&CM China // 17-19 April 2012, Shanghai // www.itcmchina.com IMEX // 22-24 May 2012, Frankfurt // www.imex-frankfurt.com AIBTM // 19-21 June 2012, Baltimore // www.aibtm.com CIBTM // 12-14 September 2012, Beijing // www.cibtm.com IMEX America // 9-11 October 2012, Las Vegas // www.imexamerica.com EIBTM // 27-29 November 2012, Barcelona // www.eibtm.com

HEADQUARTERS 5

AN ENTIRE DAY

DESIGNED WITH YOU

IN MIND

IMEX is the show at the heart of the meetings and events industry where you’ll meet all the best minds in the business. But it’s the day before IMEX officially opens - Association Day - that attracts the most experienced association professionals.

This event is dedicated solely to you, with a brand-new education agenda tailored to your sector and the chance to learn from each other before the main show begins. What’s more, qualify as a Hosted Association guest and you’ll be welcome to stay for up to 3 days here, with accommodation and travel compliments of IMEX. BE AT THE CENTRE OF ALL THE ACTION AT ASSOCIATION DAY ON 21 MAY 2012.

ASSOCIATION DAY BRINGS YOU: s New thinking – A forum of education and seminars, with unrivalled perspectives on hot topics in association management s New programmes – A series of special activities planned for 2012 to mark our 10th anniversary, with a great line-up of leading association figures s New contacts – An exclusive evening reception provides an enjoyable end to the day, with a chance to catch up and network with colleagues.

APPLY NOW TO NATASHA RICHARDS: CALL +44 (0)1273 224917 OR EMAIL NATASHA.RICHARDS@IMEXEXHIBITIONS.COM

OR YOU CAN APPLY ONLINE IMEX-FRANKFURT.COM/ASSCDAYREG

The essential worldwide exhibition for incentive travel, meetings & events

HQ > IMEX

CELEBRATIONS IN THE AIR FOR IMEX AND 10TH ANNIVERSARY ASSOCIATION DAY A HIGHLIGHT IN THE INDUSTRY CALENDAR FOR INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVES, THE PROGRAMME FOR IMEX ASSOCIATION DAY 2012 HAS BEEN TOTALLY REDESIGNED - PROMISING EXPERT SPEAKERS, INSIGHTFUL PEER CASE STUDIES, LIVELY DISCUSSIONS AND UNRIVALLED NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES.

With IMEX in Frankfurt this year marking its 10th anniversary, the IMEX team has planned a raft of changes and developments, including the introduction of three new educational tracks. The tracks divide the day’s educational content into ‘operations’, ‘meetings’ and ‘executive’ categories and will help to tailor the delegate experience and provide greater, more relevant seminar and round table choices.

Taking place at the Congress Center, Messe Frankfurt, on Monday 21st May (the day before the show opens), this annual and unique day of association education and networking has become a must-attend event for hundreds of meetings planners from all over the globe. Each year almost 300 association professionals from over 30 countries attend the IMEX Association Day in Frankfurt, and organisers expect the highest turnout ever in 2012.

This year IMEX will also use a number of new methods to invite delegates to shape the agenda for the day and to boost involvement to ensure that the experience meets its objectives on engagement and interaction.

Picking up on key issues for 2012, seminars include: ‘Evolving Membership Models’ and ‘Entering New Markets - The Key to Success’.

Another hot topic for many associations faced with financial planning challenges will be ‘Generating new revenues: What’s working and why.’ Co-organisers of the day, ICCA, will also run a ‘deep dive’ session and consultation on ‘The Art and Science of Successful Congress Bids’. In addition, there will be a debate on ‘Online Learning: the Pros & Cons’

which will address another hot topic that has both detractors and supporters in the association sector. Meanwhile, ASAE will be running a 3 hour deep dive for Executive Directors and CEOs entitled, ‘Managing Through Change’, that will cover topics on leadership, technology, change management and community.

Also new this year will be a series of ‘Ask the expert’ sessions. These will allow delegates to have one-on-one clinics with an industry expert. These have been developed as a direct result of previous delegates asking for a chance to have in-depth coaching on specific issues.

As usual this day of intense education will end in a networking reception that will be open to IMEX in Frankfurt exhibitors, partners and suppliers. The evening traditionally attracts up to 900 guests and has become the unofficial opening event of the show; as such it sets the tone for the following three

days of business. The networking reception will be held at The Westin Hotel.

Looking ahead to what he predicts will be yet another well-attended and received Association Day, Ray Bloom, IMEX Chairman comments: ‘Since the first ever IMEX Association Day, these events have grown in popularity, with delegate numbers increasing each year. Encouragingly, trends suggest that budgets within the associations sector have stabilised, with some even increasing. One point worth noting, however, is that, whilst this is a robust industry, new challenges are constantly emerging and it is important for association meeting planners to learn how to adapt to these developments.’

VIEW THE PROVISIONAL PROGRAMME imex-frankfurt.com/associationdayprogramme.html FOR INFORMATION ON HOW TO ATTEND imex-frankfurt.com/assc-day.html#Howtoattend

HEADQUARTERS 7

HQ

> ASSOCIATION PORTRAIT

The most recent annual meeting of SETAC Europe was organised in Milan, Italy.

SETAC Europe can count on the help of many volunteers during the annual meeting.

SETAC EUROPE

a scientific association downtown Brussels Dave Arnold

IN THIS EDITION WE MEET WITH DAVE ARNOLD, THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SETAC EUROPE. DAVE IS LIVING IN CAMBRIDGE (UK) BUT EVERY TWO WEEKS HE TRAVELS TO BRUSSELS TO MEET AND DISCUSS ORGANISATIONAL AND STAFF ISSUES. SETAC STANDS FOR THE SOCIETY OF ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY, AN ORGANISATION COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL

SCIENCES SUCH AS ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY, ECOTOXICOLOGY, ENVIRONMENTAL RISK ASSESSMENT AND LIFE CYCLE ANALYSIS. ‘THE ASSOCIATION PROVIDES A CENTRAL FORUM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE EXPERTS ACROSS ACADEMIA, GOVERNMENT AND INDUSTRY. WE ARE A NON-PROFIT WORLDWIDE AND PROFESSIONAL ORGANISATION,’ DAVE EXPLAINS.

HQ: Could you briefly present SETAC Europe?

Dave Arnold: SETAC was founded in North America in 1979 and ten years later it was decided to form a parallel European based Society with an office in Brussels. SETAC Europe was founded in 1989 and has been registered as a not-for-profit organisation at the Chamber of Commerce in Brussels. The SETAC Europe office is staffed with an executive director, a scientific projects manager, an office and meeting manager, a membership and meeting registration manager, a communications coordinator and an administrative assistant. Our working language is English.

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This is necessary because our office serves people not only in Europe but also in Africa and in the Middle East. We are a small team where each has his or her own responsibilities, experiences and specialisations.

HQ: What kind of challenges has the association overcome in recent years?

Dave Arnold: I have worked for larger companies, and in my opinion managing a small office for a Society of 2000 members offers a greater variety of challenges.

The work is varied and subject to numerous deadlines, hence we are flexible in the way

we work in the office. The practical experiences and the collegial, informal atmosphere are definitely benefits of working for a small organisation. There is more personal contact and commitment from the staff is bigger.

One of the challenges is to find volunteers willing to engage themselves in the society, as a member of our governing body, SETAC Europe Council or as a meeting partner in the city where we organise an event. We also have challenges in meeting strict requirements of EU funded projects where we act as dissemination partner. We have financial challenges as well. Being a non-profit organisation we are accountable to our governing Council for the funds we raise from our membership and from the activities we undertake. We have increasing experience of budgeting for small and large scientific meetings to ensure that we cover our outgoings and at the same time are able to build up financial reserves for growth of the office in the coming years.

HQ: What kind of events do you organise?

Dave Arnold: SETAC Europe organises one large annual meeting, traditionally taking place in May. We are very proud that it is Europe’s largest dedicated congress integrating environmental toxicology and chemistry. With this event we bring together approximately 2,500 delegates from government, industry and academia from all over the world who want to get up to date with the latest research results and scientific opinions.

Furthermore we organise some smaller 2-day

© Julie Scheurweghs

> A S S O C I AT I O N P O R T R A I T

From left to right: Sarah Spanoghe, Veerle Vandeveire, Valerie Verstappen, Roel Evens, Dave Arnold and Barbara Koelman

meetings or symposia, attracting 100 to 200 participants. As younger people are part of our target audience, we provide educational opportunities to the student members and meeting participants by means of short courses and summer schools plus a dedicated Young Environmental Scientist meeting.

HQ: What is the association’s decision process concerning the organisation of your annual meeting?

Dave Arnold: As SETAC Europe is serving members throughout the European Union

Every city has its charms, it is a matter of being open minded to different cultures. and beyond, we travel around Europe and change location every year. Next May our annual meeting will take place in Berlin, Germany, and in 2013 we will be guests in Glasgow, Scotland. The year after we will travel to Switzerland and France will welcome us in 2015. But we have also already organised congresses in Portugal, Denmark, Poland, Spain, the Netherlands, etc. It is the SETAC Europe council who decides where the meetings will take place. Important for us is to have members in the organising country, as we can always use some help of our local network, for instance for very practical issues on site.

HQ: What kind of venues do you need and what criteria must they satisfy?

Dave Arnold: As we organise a yearly meeting with 9-10 parallel sessions plus some smaller business meetings, we need more and more space. In the context of this event we organise a grand opening, for which we need a large auditorium seating at least 1,000 persons. Additionally, the conference centre should offer a large exhibition area for around 40 exhibitors and 300 posters boards.

We prefer the venue to be located in the centre of an attractive city, although we also consider locations outside the town centre when easy to reach with public transport. The city itself should offer plenty of accommodation possibilities in different price ranges as 40% of our attendees are students.

HQ: How would you summarise new trends in the association congress world?

Dave Arnold: My key observation is the (necessary) trend to become more and more environmentally friendly in congress venues ensuring effective control of waste and utilisation of energy. This is something that our Society now demands and is very high on our list of venue criteria. Social media, online applications etc. will also play a bigger role. We used to have printed conference proceedings but nowadays delegates prefer to download what they need on their tablets or their mobiles. Technical innovations will continue to grow and associations should also keep up to date with the latest trends, which is a challenge as small

WHO’S WHO IN THE SETAC EUROPE OFFICE Dave Arnold: SETAC Europe Executive Director Rita De Koninck: Finance & Meeting Registration Manager (temporarily out of office) Roel Evens: Scientific Project Manager Barbara Koelman: Office & Meeting Manager Sarah Spanoghe: Administrative Assistant Veerle Vandeveire: Membership & Meeting Registration Manager Valerie Verstappen: Communications Coordinator

organisations only have limited staff to do all the work.

HQ: Any memorable destination for one of your events?

Dave Arnold: I have been involved with SETAC for more than 20 years now, as a meeting participant and organiser and now as executive director, and my conclusion is that every destination is memorable. As we change location every year, we always meet new local contacts. Although it sounds like a cliché, there is a remarkable difference when organising something in the South or in the North of Europe. You have to take into account and learn to work with the more relaxed Mediterranean approach and, by contrast, accept the more structured and precise way of working in the Northern countries. But every city and every country has its charms, it is a matter of being open minded to different cultures. We celebrate these differences in our Society and feel privileged to hold great meetings with amazingly supportive SETAC members and venue staff.

CONTACT SETAC Europe Avenue de la Toison d’Or 67 1060 Brussels +32 2 772 72 81 setaceu@setac.org www.setac.org

HEADQUARTERS 9

WHAT IT IS LIKE TO BE AN ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE

THE REQUEST TO WRITE A COLUMN ON THE LIFE ON AN ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE CAME AT THE TIME WHEN I WAS REFLECTING ON THE TWENTY-FIVE YEARS I HAVE BEEN ENGAGED IN ASSOCIATION MANAGEMENT AND CURRENTLY INVOLVED IN MY OWN SUCCESSION PROCESS. TEXT LUC MAENE, PRESIDENT OF ESAE AND DIRECTOR GENERAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL FERTILIZER ASSOCIATION (IFA)

Like any other profession, association management requires a set of skills and it is encouraging to note that young professionals see career potential in the association world and enroll for training in this field.

development which in turn will lead to a better understanding of how to best manage the association concerned. If you are not passionate about your working environment you will never be a good association leader.

Above all, an association executive has to be a people’s person, ready to listen at all times while being a consensus builder. Often the question has been which core competencies and leadership qualities are required to manage an association. From personal experience I could say that diplomatic skills and the ability to find the common denominator to further the development of the association are key.

An association executive has to be a people’s person, ready to listen at all times while being a consensus builder

Every association has a strategic plan and its executive officer needs to be able to implement the plan in accordance with the model that has been adopted. That in itself requires specific skills.

I have the privilege of working in a multinational and multicultural environment. That is extremely rich and it is of utmost importance to understand cultural differences in order to maximize the development efforts. The fact that an association facilitates exposure to actors operating in every region of the world is extremely valuable for personal

HEADQUARTERS 10

Luc Maene

Being involved in an international trade association does not leave much time to spend at home but it allows to fully savour the rich cultures of the various countries involved.

Twenty-five years have passed almost without noticing and I am still as enthusiastic about association management as on the first day.

www.esae.org

WHAT MAKES A GOOD LEADER

IT GOES WITHOUT SAYING THAT GOOD LEADERSHIP IS CRUCIAL TO ANY SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS. BUT, WHAT MAKES A GOOD LEADER AND HOW CAN SOMEONE DEVELOP HIMSELF OR HERSELF INTO A GOOD LEADER IF THEY ARE NOT ONE TO BEGIN WITH? THE ANSWER IS THAT THERE ARE MANY FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO GOOD LEADERSHIP. AND, WHETHER SOMEONE IS NATURALLY A GOOD LEADER OR NOT, ANYONE CAN BECOME A GOOD LEADER. TEXT MYRON CURRY

GET TALKING One of those factors of good leadership is communication. Communication is one of the most key elements of leadership. Good communication skills need to be learned to effectively become a good leader or manager.

When communication occurs, as a leader, you will be able to accurately convey your ideas and thoughts to those that work for you. In fact, simply being able to convey these things in the first place, much less accurately, puts you in the right direction for leadership. If employees have no idea what is on your mind, your leadership is going to falter. Employees are not typically mind readers.

If there is a problem a certain employee is experiencing, good communication can filter

the problem out. You, as a leader, can dissect the problem and offer solutions in various ways. Ideas that are given to your staff work both ways, as well. Employees can give helpful feedback and generate new ideas to you that help the company as well, when good communication is present.

GET THINGS MOVING Motivation is another variable that plays into good leadership. Employees tend to stagnate when motivation decreases… and it will decrease, without proper motivation. Many leaders try to motivate the old-fashioned way… through fear. (Do what I say or something bad will happen) This is not advisable, since it tends to only deliver short-term results and cause even less competent work

in the long run, due to resentment resulting from the fear tactics.

Instead, try adding challenges for your staff.

A fresh challenge always adds excitement and spawns creativity. Challenge your employees with tasks that may be slightly out of their range and let them at it!

This increases motivation.

If they run into a snag, guide them towards a solution but don’t offer the actual solution outright. Coach them into discovering the solution themselves. Once they have, their self-esteem will rise, thereby raising their motivation level.

TWO HEADS ARE BETTER THAN ONE Teamwork is always something to consider when striving to become a good leader. This means not only teaching your employees to work together but to become part of the team yourself.

Use others’ potential. Many times, employees’ potential is wasted. A good leader recognizes that his or her employees

HEADQUARTERS 11

are more than just employees, they are people too. These people have lives outside of work where they have to make decisions on a daily basis, from how to deal with house payments, to car bills, to raising children, to uncountable tasks in everyday lives. Yet, at work, their decision making skills are not trusted enough to choose what type of toner needs to be ordered for a set of printers.

Communication is one of the most key elements of leadership.

Good communication skills need to be learned to effectively become a good leader or manager

The point here is that employees need to be trusted to do more. A good leader doesn’t manage every single detail. Use others’ potential to your benefit. You will find that you have become a better leader for it.

BACK TO SCHOOL As always, increasing your education is definitely a good thing when trying to improve leadership, but the school that really needs to be brought at attention here is the kind of school that you don’t get a degree for.

Take the time to learn as much about your position of being a leader as possible. Do some reading at the nearest bookstore. Talk to other leaders and see how they do things; trade notes.

The more you continually evaluate yourself and your practices and search for as much information on leadership as possible, the more you will be able to keep up with changing times and the better leader you will be for it.

Myron Curry is President and CEO of BusinessTrainingMedia.com a leading provider of workforce and business development training programs.

Myron has over 20 years of successful management experience with leading fortune 500 companies and has written numerous articles about workforce management issues. You can contact Myron at: myron@businessmarketing.com or visit his company’s website www. businesstrainingmedia.com

HEADQUARTERS 12

AN ASSOCIATION LEADER SHOULD… ALL LIVING SYSTEMS, INCLUDING ASSOCIATIONS, GO THROUGH FIVE PREDICTABLE LIFE CYCLES: BIRTH, GROWTH, MATURITY, DECLINE AND DEATH. HEALTHY SYSTEMS WORK TO AVOID DECLINE AND EVENTUAL DEATH BY USING THE WISDOM AND CALM OF MATURITY TO PLAN A REBIRTH. UNHEALTHY SYSTEMS AVOID CHANGE AS LONG AS POSSIBLE, OFTEN TO THEIR OWN DEMISE. TEXT JEFF HURT

Leadership often needs to step back from their customary role of being agents for members, promoting members’ interests. They need to become stewards of the system anticipating the future, even as others enjoy the present. Each life cycle

requires leaders to act in specific ways to maintain the development of a healthy association.

During birth or rebirth leaders should + Encourage risk-taking (Consider it like learning to walk for the first time.)

+ Promote new ideas and constituencies.

Protect them from attack by change-resisters + Use gentle correction when guiding those blinded by passion and enthusiasm, and unaware of their impact to the entire organization + Transition from hand-holding to flight as new ideas, programs and communities are pushed from the nest to fly on their own During growth leaders should + Work as a united front giving a consistent message and focusing on the health of the overall system and impact of decisions on the system + Exercise patience as individuals and committees want more autonomy than they are prepared to handle

will lead to rebirth (developing new programs, taking new directions, creating new partnerships) + Embark on succession planning to attract and engage future leaders

+ Balance the needs of members with their own interests and what’s best for the association + Rise above emotions and not isolate themselves from conflict

When decline cannot be averted, leaders should + Seek the roots of decline + Avoid the blame game and using decline for personal agendas + Reassess long-term objectives + Consider options for revitalization and rebirth + Calculate the resource costs (financial, human, time) of renewal + Evaluate whether the association can manage these costs + Consider how these resources will be organized and implemented

When death is imminent, leaders should + Be bold in communications and faithful to members + Use justice and generosity when disposing of assets + Remind members that all organizations eventually outlive their original mission and either change or die + Remember that death is a natural part of the living process and not failure + Give notice of pending death graciously

Leadership often needs to step back from their customary role of being agents for members, promoting members’ interests. They need to become stewards of the system anticipating the future

+ Encourage risk-taking + Embracing learning from failure as a natural process + Invest in change, not avoid it + Protect risk-takers and those who learn from failure from attack by opponents sensing an opportunity to ambush

All association leadership needs training in identifying the life cycle stage of the association and their roles during that stage. Ultimately, leaders need to be analytical and calm, avoiding blame and managing conflict.

The unedited version of this article can be found at jeffhurtblog.com/2011/04/01/association-leadersactions-during-life-cycle-stages

+ Discuss the consequences of not embracing revitalization and preparing for a gracious death

During maturity leaders should + Start self-examination and needs analysis + Begin discussions about strategies for averting decline and death + Maintain open and transparent communications with all + Enjoy the moment as ‘settlers’ while encouraging ‘pioneers’ to run with the imagining reigns + Set aside budget for strategies that

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ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVES MANAGEMENT SKILLS ARE THE KEY BIG OR SMALL, ASSOCIATIONS NEED GOOD LEADERSHIP TO GROW AND SUSTAIN THEIR EXISTENCE. SO WHAT ARE THE TRAITS NEEDED TO FILL THE ROLE OF THE ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE?

The ability to manage a diverse range of masters! A membership organisation’s management is not an easy task and requires the skill of a diplomat and the strategy of a politician. A personality whom members like is a major asset but just as important is the ability to manage.

However a number of association executives who may not be the most personable character may offer skills such as strong marketing, finance and lobbying skills or bring relevant and much needed experience that compensate for the lack of charismatic character.

It depends on the association and its raison d'être. All associations convene to benefit members but different requirements exist to serve members. These include but are not limited to lobbying to government for legislation or support; education/accreditation /

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recognition of skills; standards; public relations to promote the best interest of an industry or profession; networking opportunities at seminars or conferences; matching buyers and sellers either through exhibition or publications; publishing to communicate both externally or within an industry, trade or profession or promote scientific achievement.

BRING SUCCESS So how does the association executive bring success to their role? An association is often a cesspool of ideas therefore it takes wisdom to determine paths to bring useful ideas to fruition. Guiding members to direct their enthusiasm, energy and effort down a path to success is the key. Not too fast and not too slow in order to produce outcomes to please the majority and not the private agenda of the self-serving individual.

One of the many challenges of running an association is that each member owns the organisation and some think they can lay personal claim to harness the organisation to their own ends but alas this does not sit well with others and can generate a lot of anxiety if not steered in the right direction. Some egos need to be dealt with but it doesn’t stop there, there are some aggressive go getters, some who think their idea is a top priority and those who want to be heard but not necessarily do too much, just enough to gain a good reputation. All these types present their own challenges.

Favourite association executives are those who can manage. Management means delegation and careful overseeing. The term manage is a much overrated word because the lack of this skill seems to be on the increase. It is a pleasure to work with those association executives who are skilled in their tasks that advance the association and appreciate and praise those who support them. It is not always wise to grow all services in a head office but spread the goodwill among members who can contribute and

take active involvement within the association and outsource to a range of services that bring their own expertise to enhance the development of the association.

Conflict with the Honorary President or Board is not desirable hence the ability to manage difficult personalities or those who are time poor is imperative. In today’s age there is the information overload factor that is chipping away detrimentally at all associations. The ability to get the communication right, meaningful and succinct, and of the ideal frequency (but not so much that is it of nuisance value), will become more of a determining factor in judging an association executive’s success.

Tying together the ideas and passions of the succession of volunteers in the honorary positions on boards and committees takes vision and strategic planning. Dealing with

Favourite association executives are those who can manage.

Management means delegation and careful overseeing

the ebbs and flows of the tidal change of volunteers whilst encountering the periodic king tide and still keeping the organisation on track for growth requires a strong hand on the steering wheel and expert navigation.

GOOD LEADER A good leader credits those who perform well but doesn’t tolerate nonsense. One gets the best out of people by recognising their worthwhile contribution. More than just diplomacy, direct communication is the

secret to informing members or staff of their strengths and positive contributions or their weaknesses or failures but it must be done in a business-like manner. Just because an outspoken and demanding person is a member is not a good reason to tolerate poor outcomes or unacceptable behaviour a strong association executive will deal with such instances and not sweep issues under the carpet. This is a vote winner because members and staff know where they stand and admire this strength to care for the good of the association and not pander to bullies.

A strong business-like stance on all matters financial adhering to the policies, rules and guidelines makes everyone understand that there are no favours and the practice is fair for everyone plus the staff are not confused, they can do their jobs efficiently.

Where there is vacillation there is discontent because those who do the right thing do not like the allowances given to those who haven’t. This is a common trait in association management where the association executive turns a blind eye when they should be more responsible looking after the best interests of the association. Clubs or clicks within an association should not build a territorial reputation or prevent others from giving input.

because it is management skills inherent in the role of the association executive that is paramount for success. In many (but not all) cases the person from within the profession or trade lacks the skills of association management which in today’s environment is a specialist expertise. Too often an association is held back when one of their own takes the role and the Peter Principle (meaning to be promoted to a position at which they cannot work competently) comes into play. This may seem unkind but readers will recognise examples of such appointments. Providing the skills are proven to manage effectively, a fresh approach from an outsider cross fertilising experiences and methodologies from other associations and industries if done strategically and not radically will build a stronger and healthier association.

This article was provided by the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers, author Roslyn McLeod, arinex pty limited, Australia. IAPCO represents today more than 115 professional organisers, meeting planners and managers of international and national congresses, conventions and special events from 41 countries. info@iacpo.org / www.iapco.org

Growing the next generation is imperative and the source of growth despite the challenges and must be a priority for strategically planning the activities of the association.

Increasingly rising generations are not as inclined to join associations so the association executive has to find ways to overcome the resistance.

So should the association executive be an expert in the subject matter of the association? Not necessarily. The common theme in this story is management ability. It’s a fallacy to think an expertise in the subject matter will make the best association executive

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THE DYNAMICS AND EVOLUTION OF ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVES

Keren Deront

Milagros Mostaza-Corral

Bob Lewis

AT INTEREL ASSOCIATION MANAGEMENT IN BRUSSELS, MILAGROS MOSTAZA-CORRAL, MANAGING DIRECTOR, BOB LEWIS, CHAIRMAN, AND KEREN DERONT, ACCOUNT DIRECTOR, DISCUSS ABOUT LEADERSHIP, THE DAY-TO-DAY TASKS OF ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVES AND WHAT HAS CHANGED IN THE LAST FEW YEARS.

HQ: What is it like to be an association management executive?

Milagros Mostaza Corral: Although it sounds like a cliché, it is in truth very rewarding.

For me, the human factor remains the most gratifying component. It’s great to work with people who are passionate and believe in their cause, whatever that may be.

It’s also an intense exchange and learning process for both sides. Personally, I have had the privilege of working with a variety of industry sector professionals and have thoroughly enjoyed each experience.

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I guess once again this shows the diversity of the role and the organisations we work with.

HQ: What does a typical day look like for an association management executive?

Keren Deront: I think the typical day is that there is no typical day. Of course, I turn my computer on and check my voice and emails like the majority of us, but the typical day ends there. There is such a variety in the scope of work and daily

activities that I would prefer to talk about the characteristics and skills used daily rather than tasks performed. I would say that first and foremost, the skill required in association management is multi-tasking.

No day goes by where we do the same thing all day - it just doesn’t exist in association management.

A broad skill set and innovative problem solving seem to be popular among daily tool box items - there are many unique situations in association management.

Additionally, for an association management executive, it is fundamental to dedicate adequate time to team and project management. An open door policy is great but it does not take away from the need to communicate and share as a team via weekly or bi-monthly meetings. There is also the need for flexibility, especially when working with various time zones. So for example, a 4 AM conference call from time to time is part and parcel when working with international societies.

In general association staff are never bored and the work is intense. So finding time for lighter activities are usually welcome by all, whether it be via a brainstorming session, team training or other pursuits. These mini breaks provide change of pace and serve as a great platform for energizing everyone’s batteries, and should not be overlooked when planning your time.

HQ: Have the economic challenges of the past 3 years impacted the not-for-profit sector and if so, how has this impacted the way you or your clients manage their associations?

Bob Lewis: In general I would say yes. In many ways it’s forced the not-for-profit sector to become far more focused on the efficiency of its operations just as it has in the for profit sector. It has also forced the sector to pay far more attention to the question of value both in terms of what it delivers to members and the value of the services (such as education, certification) it provides more widely within its industry or profession.

What we are finding now is that associations are beginning to think much more closely about how to get the most out of every dollar or Euro spent and that in turn has interestingly led more associations to look at outsourcing certain activities where they can buy in professional expertise in a more cost effective manner.

HQ: In your experience, what value does a diverse leadership bring to the culture of an association?

Milagros Mostaza Corral: If I had to answer this in one word, I would say vision. I think there is significant value in having a diverse leadership because of the extended vision this brings. The success of an association is founded on people and ideas. The perception of one group may not be the same of another. So a diverse leadership stretches boundaries and reduces gaps. Leadership can then set their strategic objectives knowing that numerous voices and perspectives are shared and addressed. I have always

There is significant value in having a diverse leadership because of the extended vision this brings

found that participating in a board meeting composed of a diverse group, guarantees a dynamic and productive exchange because they have tapped into these human resources to achieve their goals.

HQ: Is diversity more important in the not-for-profit sector than in the for profit sector?

Keren Deront: Because of the diverse nature of the not-for-profit sector, I would tend to think that it is. Associations seek change and look to make a social impact.

To achieve this, they should consider the importance of being inclusive in their reflection, vision and actions to ensure that the society’s mission caters to global diverse needs. Understanding various factors (role within the organisation, demographics, gender, culture, etc.) from diverse groups, strengthens an organisation’s workforce and positioning for the future.

HQ: Do you specifically recruit for diversity?

Bob Lewis: Yes inasmuch as we always look to build teams with a balanced mix of skills, backgrounds and personalities. Cultural diversity is also something we look at.

While we don’t specifically apply quotas we are always conscious when hiring of trying to ensure we maintain an optimum balance in our teams. That also applies at the leadership level.

If you look at our leadership team, we are one male and two female from British, Canadian/Indian and Spanish background as well as having a mix of corporate, not-for-profit and government sector experience. That creates a great dynamic which our clients benefit from.

HQ: After over 15 years as an association management executive, what still surprises you?

Milagros Mostaza Corral: After all these years, I remain both surprised and inspired by the level of dedication and involvement from association leadership. The majority of the individuals that make up the numerous boards I have had the privilege to work with have other professional responsibilities as well as families, but they still find time to work benevolently and passionately for their respective associations. They put in so many hours… I wonder when they sleep.

I’m also amazed to see the dynamics and evolution of relationships between association staff and leadership. It’s nice to see how this grows and strengthens with time, bringing with it, mutual trust and personal satisfaction.

About Interel - Interel is an independent international consulting group specialising in public affairs, strategic communications and association management. Headquartered in Brussels, the firm has own offices and partners in all major cities in Europe and internationally. For more information, please visit www.interelgroup.com and www.interelamc.com.

HEADQUARTERS 17

UIA ı UNION OF INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

THE EVENTFUL LIFE OF ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVES MONDAY MORNING. 7.33AM. TIME FOR ALL GOOD ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVES TO GET UP AND FACE ANOTHER EVENTFUL WEEK OF SAVING THE WORLD, DEFENDING THE DOWN-TRODDEN, RAISING PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS, RESTORING DEMOCRACY TO BELARUS, COMBATING HUMAN TRAFFICKING, PUBLISHING YET ANOTHER BOOK ON CIVIL SOCIETY, DRAFTING A LONG-OVERDUE CONVENTION ON OMBUDSMEN, OR ORGANIZING A CONGRESS FOR 10,147 SURGEONS, OF WHOM 1.2% WILL BE FEMALE. OH, AND NOT TO FORGET, THIS IS ALSO THE WEEK FOR PREVENTING THE EXTINCTION OF THE ANTARCTIC WHALE. TEXT CYRIL RITCHIE, VICE PRESIDENT UAI, MTC (MASTER OF TONGUE IN CHEEK)

g nin n pla

yse analorts rep

org meetanize ings

fin fi na n anc nciia al re ep po ort rts rts & ssttra ate tegy gy

That's it, my friends: a man’s gotta do what a man’s gotta do.

So let's get on with contemplating MY eventful week ahead. I have an appointment to see that uncultured banker who simply won’t understand that our worthy goals speak for themselves, and speak millions, whereas he only wants to talk Cyril Ritchie

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about audits and spreadsheets and risk insurance and salary caps. What world does he live in??

Then there's that meeting of the Scientific Advisory Committee that the Board imposed on me. Well at least it’s 11.8% female so boy are we making progress on the gender-equality front. These scientific advisors - none of whom I would have picked if anybody has asked my opinion - think they know everything about

everything and even come with their own ideas instead of listening to mine. To finally get my views across, the energy I deploy would drive a wind-farm, except that these advisers include people who know all about wind-farms and hint that I am just about wind.

Later there’s this ICT specialist coming in for an interview following our job advertisement in the FAZ. Of course to stay on the cutting edge we desperately need to fill this

position, but she’d better not start off by showing that she knows more than I do. I’d better read her CV again to find out where the gaps are. That’ll keep her on her mettle.

Ah but the week will get better when we have the general staff meeting, because after all those people HAVE to listen to me.

Thank goodness I hand-picked them, which means that half of them actually know what they are talking about.

And then there’s the really good part of the week, when the reports from the field are analysed: grass-roots community development in Kiribati (memo to Cynthia: when can I fit in a visit to Kiribati?); new X-ray machines delivered to Mauritius (memo to Cynthia: can I do Mauritius on the way to Kiribati?); a parliamentary hearing in

Of course in the midst of all this heavy scheduling I have to find time to finish off these far-too-detailed strategy and financial reports that members and donors always seem to want yesterday. Can’t they just have confidence in my leadership? After all, the staff does…

Well that more or less takes care of this week, because on Thursday evening I have to go to some ten-day UN Conference in Estonia with a title three lines long (memo to Cynthia: make sure I get the working papers for this jaunt no later than Thursday lunchtime; second memo to Cynthia: can you arrange for me to nip over from Estonia to St. Petersburg for a cultural weekend with all the usual trimmings?).

Since its foundation in 1907, the UIA is a leading provider of information about international non-profit organizations and a premium networking platform between international organizations and the meeting industry worldwide

Uzbekistan on farmers’ cooperatives (memo to Cynthia: if we have the money, see if Simon can go to that one).

Then, fortunately, comes a real highlight: attending a course on CSR as practiced in the convention industry. These chaps (some chapesses) really know what they’re talking about. Funny, though, they haven’t actually asked me to speak, but I shall have some unprepared remarks ready just in case.

Oh and one of these days soon I’d better give a call to the Board Chairman, just to make sure I didn’t misunderstand him when he made some obscure remark about advance planning for when my current contract expires.

Footnote from the author: Any resemblance to any association executive you know is purely fortuitous.

After all, the great majority do an excellent job, even if they sometimes have to say so themselves.

WHAT’S THE UNION OF INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATIONS (UIA)?

The Union of International Associations - UIA - is a non-profit, independent, apolitical, and non-governmental institution in the service of international associations.

Since its foundation in 1907, the UIA is a leading provider of information about international nonprofit organizations and a premium networking platform between international organizations and the meeting industry worldwide.

MAIN ACTIVITIES: + Yearbook of International Organizations - contains information on over 64,000 international organizations active in all fields of human endeavour, in all corners of the world, and over centuries of history. Available online and in book form. + International Congress Calendar - with information on over 350,000 international meetings. Available online, in pdf, and on paper. + Annual Associations Round Table - features both open-space / networking and discussion oriented sessions as well as practical skills training sessions for associations.

See www.uia.be/roundtable Who can use the UIA’s research and networking platform? Everyone with an interest in international associations and cooperation: international associations, the businesses which provide services to them, media and press, research centres, universities, libraries, government offices. Associate Members have quick access to first quality material to benefit their business. To join, see www.uia.be/associate-members.

For more information, please contact uia@uia.org

HEADQUARTERS 19

HQ > M A L AYS I A

Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), Sarawak

MALAYSIA: A HUB FOR BUSINESS EVENTS THERE ARE MANY REASONS WHY MALAYSIA IS HERALDED BY THE WORLD AS THE CROSSROADS OF ASIA. ITS STRATEGIC LOCATION AT THE CENTRE OF SOUTHEAST ASIA BETWEEN THE BOOMING ECONOMIES OF INDIA, CHINA AND THE MIDDLE EAST, ITS MULTI-RACIAL AND MULTI-ETHNIC IDENTITY, RICH NATURAL RESOURCES AND BOASTING UPSCALE WORLD-CLASS MODERN INFRASTRUCTURES NEXT TO INNER-CITY HERITAGE COMMUNITIES ARE JUST SOME OF THE TRAITS THAT MAKES THIS COUNTRY UNIQUE AND EXCITING.

MAGNET Malaysia has been a magnet for adventurers and commerce for centuries. Celebrated explorers as diverse as Admiral Zheng He, Douglas Fairbanks, Herman Hesse, Alfred Russel Wallace, Jacque Cousteau, Somerset Maugham, Alawiyeen Families and Ferdinand Magellan were drawn here by the need to trade and engage with Asia, develop ideas and later perform deeds that had a huge impact on the world.

Already in 1821, Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles in his Introduction to the Malay Annals, argued: ‘When we consider the extent of this unparalleled Archipelago; the infinity of its resources; its contiguity to China and Japan, the most populous regions of the earth; and the extraordinary facilities it affords to commerce, from the smoothness of its seas, the number and excellence of its harbours, and the regularity of its monsoons, it would be vain to assign limits, or to say how far and wide the tide of commerce might not have flowed or how great the progress of civilization might not have been…’ This is the inspiration behind Malaysia Convention & Exhibition

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Bureau’s (MyCEB) new branding direction which positions Malaysia as the nexus that has brought the world together for business and trade for over 600 years. The concept communicates Malaysia’s pre-eminence as the preferred destination for visitors seeking to trade and conduct business, and its strength in engaging with new and emerging economic centres in the East while simultaneously enhancing ties with the West.

Kuala Lumpur Connvention Centre

Chinatown theme dinner, Khoo Kongsi

PORT OF CALL As reflected in the newly coined tagline, ‘Malaysia - Asia’s Business Events Hub’, it communicates Malaysia’s proposition as a gateway to Asia for meetings. Owing to its stature as an Asian microcosm, Malaysia is increasingly becoming a first port of call for international meetings and associations wanting to engage with Asia - the world’s largest and fastest growing economic region.

The new branding is part of MyCEB’s progressive approach towards achieving its mission to be Asia Pacific’s top five meeting destination by year 2020 and is designed to support Tourism Malaysia’s world renowned tagline, ‘Malaysia Truly Asia’.

Plenary Hall, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre

> M A L AYS I A

Langkawi Island, Kedah

A SELECTION OF MAJOR CONVENTIONS RECENTLY HELD IN MALAYSIA

Event 70th Institute of Internal Auditors International Conference* 18th Asian Pacific Congress of Cardiology 22nd Pacific Science Congress 18th World Congress of Accountants* 8th Asian Congress of Neurological Surgeons 14th Asia Oceania Congress of Endocrinology 4th Global Bio Herbs Economic Forum 14th International Conference on Thinking 11th Asian Pacific Congress of Nephrology 6th World Chambers Congress Four Seasons, Langkawi Island

Formed in 2009, MyCEB has been committed to fulfilling its role to further strengthen Malaysia’s brand and position for the international meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) market. Malaysia’s growing profile in bidding for and staging international association meetings with record attendances underscores MyCEB and its industry partners’ expertise, experience and strong teamwork in ensuring successful business events are hosted in the country.

As reflected in the newly coined tagline, ‘Malaysia Asia’s Business Events Hub’, it communicates Malaysia’s proposition as a gateway to Asia for meetings MyCEB can facilitate bids for regional and international conventions, advise and assist event planners on availability of local products and services, provide government liaison and contacts, assist with site inspections, help with event promotion advice and assistance, and provide promotional materials. You just need to ask, it’s free of charge!

INFRASTRUCTURE From the small very special venue to the big-shot conference centre, from the budget hotel to the five-star hotel, Malaysia can cater to any need the demanding meeting planners might have.

Year 2011 2011 2011 2010 2010 2010 2010 2009 2009 2009

Attendees 3,000 2,000 1,500 6,000 2000 1,500 6,000 2,000 2,000 1,000

*World Record Attendance

Home to many modern convention and exhibition centres, the country indeed accommodates a wide range of budgets and requirements. Among them are the award-winning Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, for up to 6,000 people reception style, at the heart of over 12,000 hotel rooms, extensive shopping and entertainment facilities, and convenient transport connections. And only an hour and a half's flight away is the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), which is located in the eco-friendly state of Sarawak, East Malaysia, which accommodates up to 3,500 delegates.

Malaysia is also one of the world’s best value-for-money destinations when it comes to accommodation ranging from budgetfriendly to luxury 5-star hotels and resorts.

Being ranked 3rd Most Price Competitive Country in the World for Travel 2011 by the Travel & Tourism Competitive Index, it offers excellent value for money for meeting planners. According to the UBS Price and Earnings Report 2009 the average price for a double en-suite with breakfast in a firstclass hotel was USD140 against the global average of USD310.

Event planners will find a wide range of international hotels such as Hilton, Hyatt, Intercontinental, Le Meridien, Mandarin Oriental, Marriott, Novotel, Park Royal, Shangri-la, Sheraton, Renaissance and Traders. Examples of national branded hotels include Sunway Resort & Spa, Royale Chulan,

Pangkor Laut, Tanjung Jara, Impiana and Swiss Garden Hotels.

Malaysia’s largest city Kuala Lumpur has ample accommodation for large scale conventions with over 36,000 rooms and a number of new properties under development. Likewise other key destinations such as Penang, Langkawi, Mallaca, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching (state of Borneo) also provide a wide selection of accommodation options.

Not to forget the 130 million-year-old lush tropical rainforests, abundant wildlife, UNESCO World Heritage Cities, and some of the world’s best resorts and beaches.

There are boundless opportunities for global associations to leverage on Malaysia’s attraction as Asia’s business events hub. Contact MyCEB now on +603 2024 2090 or email info@myceb.com.my for further enquiries and learn how you too could be a part of Malaysia’s history.

CONTACT Ms Ho Yoke Ping General Manager, Sales & Marketing Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau T. +603 2034 2090 F. +603 2034 2091 E. pingho@myceb.com.my www.myceb.com.my

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Arabs, Chinese, Indians and Europeans have long appreciated Malaysia’s position as a nexus for trade and meetings. So much so, they’re still here 600 years later.

Our predecessors once braved all manner of hazards to travel to Malaysia. Once here, they thrived amidst the many trade opportunities and warm hospitality of the local Malays. The result is a truly unique melting pot of cultures and customs. This infusion of influences makes Malaysians cosmopolitan and while we are forward-looking, we retain a strong sense of our traditions.

As the centre of Southeast Asia and strategically located between India and China, Malaysia knows how to connect the world with Asia. Malaysia is English-speaking yet multilingual; a vibrant emerging economic and business centre; and a great value-for-money destination. You will see it in our ability to host any meeting, incentive trip, convention and exhibition. Malaysia has all the first-world infrastructure you want in a destination enhanced by a fusion of Asian cultures, food and hospitality.

Malaysia - Asia’s Business Events Hub Scan this code to visit oour website Sca

MALAYSIA CONVENTION & EXHIBITION BUREAU (MyCEB) Suite 14.3, Level 14, Menara IMC, No. 8 Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Tel: +603 2034 2090 Fax: +603 2034 2091 Email: info@myceb.com.my Web: www.myceb.com.my

HQ

> MELBOURNE Karen Bolinger

MELBOURNE BETS ON INTELLIGENCE ATTENDING AIME IN FEBRUARY WAS QUITE AN EYE-OPENER CONCERNING THE WAY AUSTRALIA CATERS TO INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATIONS. IN MY HUMBLE OPINION, MELBOURNE, FOR EXAMPLE, HAS A UNIQUE, INTELLIGENT APPROACH. OF COURSE, THE DESTINATION HAS THE RELEVANT INFRASTRUCTURE TO ACCOMMODATE

ambassadors, they can surely engage people and make sure the city stays on the map as a great convention destination.

For more information, visit www.mcvb.com.au

ASSOCIATION MEETINGS OF ANY SIZE. BUT WHAT’S ITS ADDED VALUE? TEXT RÉMI DÉVÉ

The Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau’s (MCVB) new campaign is called ‘Melbourne IQ: The Intelligent Choice for Conferences’ and is designed to promote the city’s expertise and track record in a diverse range of academic, scientific and professional endeavours.

Meeting Karen Bolinger, MCVB’s new CEO, during AIME, it was clear that the emphasis is laid on Melbourne’s capabilities as an ‘Intellectual Capital’. So, from a purely desitination point of view, the marketing efforts seem to have shifted to the academic, research, scientific capabilities of the capital of Victoria.

Karen said: ‘Of course, Melbourne boasts superior business events infrastructure, economic stability, excellent accessibility, safety and leisure attractions. But that’s not just what sets us apart. Our greatest assets lie in our intellectual capabilities and industry strengths. Our economy is driven by knowledge-based industries in education,

biotechnology, advanced manufacturing and design and the city is also recognised as a centre of excellence for research and development in the medical, science, business and financial industries.’

So, for all those associations looking for links with destinations in which to hold their conference, Melbourne may be a natural and attractive option: this way, they could maximise attendance, be close to emerging markets in Asia, and be able to draw delegates from a rich pool of local talent. As Karen puts it: ‘Delegates are keen to know ‘what’s in it for them’, what they can extract from the conference and apply to their job. In Melbourne, we can help them do precisely that.’

To do so, MCVB works closely with locally-based associations and the wider academic community, specifically through the Club Melbourne Ambassador Program, when working to attract a business event to Melbourne. With no less than 134

AIME GOES STRONGER AND STRONGER Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, AIME, the Asia Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo, has gone from strength to strength over the years. Owned by the Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau but managed by Reed Travel Exhibitions (RTE), the show has seen more than 7,800 exhibitors attend from more than 50 countries, hosting close to 28,000 visitors, as well as over 4,000 Hosted Buyers since 2002. 2012 was one of the most successful years so far: almost 780 exhibitors and 500 Hosted Buyers were in attendance, with visitor numbers reaching up to 3,384.

www.aime.com.au

21 – 22 February, 2012

HEADQUARTERS 23

HQ

> SOUTH AFRICA

University of Cape Town

SCIENCE AND SUCCESS AT SOUTH AFRICA’S UNIVERSITIES SOUTH AFRICA’S LARGE UNIVERSITIES HAVE DEDICATED THEMSELVES TO SCIENCE AND INNOVATIVE RESEARCH. OVER THE PAST CENTURY, THEIR GRADUATES HAVE ACHIEVED MAJOR RESULTS. FOUR NOBEL PRIZE LAUREATES HAVE STUDIED AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN - THREE OF THEM HAVE BEEN HONOURED FOR THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS IN SCIENCE, ONE FOR PLAYING A LEADING ROLE IN LITERATURE. ASSOCIATIONS AND COMPANIES ARE WELCOME TO HOLD THEIR MEETINGS AT THE ACADEMIC CENTRES OF SOUTH AFRICA.

WITTY AT WITS

THE OLDER THE BETTER

With centres of excellence in strong materials and biomedical tuberculosis research, the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg is known as Wits by the locals.

It offers several buildings suitable for meetings and large gatherings. With a capacity of 1,035 seats, the Great Hall, which was completed in 1940, on the historic East Campus is definitely one of the most notable buildings.

The University of Cape Town is the highest ranked African university in the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) and one of only four universities from the developing world in the list of top 200 universities.

Many conferences or other business events take place in the Linder Auditorium on the Education Campus. It provides space for up to 1,059 people. Of course, there are many more venues, including smaller ones on the campus. Several of the 14 museums belonging to Wits, can be hired for events as well. For example; the Adler Museum of Medicine, which is suitable for 200 participants amidst its historic medical equipment.

Today’s conference visitors are enthralled by the views of Table Mountain and the venerable buildings of the country’s oldest university. Breakwater Lodge accommodates several of the university’s meeting facilities. Originally a prison from 1859 to 1911, it offers 36 conference and function rooms. The Exhibition Hall for example has a maximum capacity of 220 persons. Breakwater Lodge also serves as a hotel with 192 rooms and has two restaurants.

It is conveniently located next to the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront - a key tourist and business landmark in Cape Town. A great emphasis is placed upon research at the University of Cape Town. Students and

The Wits University - Great Hall

professors work in the fields of Commerce, Engineering, Humanities, Law and especially in Science, with a focus on Health Science.

ECOLOGICALLY CORRECT Rhodes University strives to be a ‘green’ university. Situated in Grahamstown in the Eastern Cape, Rhodes campus is dotted with little gardens, trees and meadows and the university operates a large botanical garden.

It offers numerous meeting facilities: the modern, two lecturer theatres, for up to 350 participants, the Gold Fields Centre on St Peters Campus for smaller gatherings, and two seminar rooms in the historic building overlooking the botanical gardens.

Grahamstown, situated at the meeting point of 4 different climatic zones, offers botanists, geographers, geologists, hydrologists, entomologists, zoologists and liminologists an amazingly wide spectrum of conditions right on their doorsteps. It is also South African’s Festival City and is the home of the National Arts Festival, SciFest and other festivals.

Rhodes University has ongoing research in the faculties of Commerce, Education, Humanities, Law and Science.

CONTACT South Africa Tourism Tina Herold Business Tourism Manager Europe tina@southafrica.net www.southafrica.net

HEADQUARTERS 25

Qatar National Convention Centre, The New Meeting Place The Sidra tree occupies a distinctive position within the hearts of the Qatari people. Traditionally, the shade of its branches was the meeting place for scholars and poets. Today, we have a new and contemporary Sidra tree. QNCC, with its impressive façade inspired by the tree’s branches, is a modern meeting place at which to gather and exchange knowledge and ideas.

Beyond Convention qatarconvention.com

HQ > QATAR

DREAM IS OUR REALITY Qatar National Convention Centre

IN DECEMBER, THE BRAND-NEW, LONG-AWAITED QATAR NATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE (QNCC) OPENED. SO WHAT'S SO WONDERFUL ABOUT IT, EXCEPT FOR ITS OBVISOULY FORMIDABLE LOOK? TREVOR Trevor McCartney

MCCARTNEY, DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, EXPLAINS IT ALL.

HQ: What are the main assets of QNCC? Trevor McCartney: QNCC was conceived as part of Qatar Foundation’s vision to host the world’s best thought-provoking research and knowledge-based events in line with the national vision of becoming a knowledge economy. That is why QNCC is equipped with some of the finest facilities and the latest technologies. Secondly, QNCC was built to address the increasing demands of the meetings industry in Qatar and in the region.

Our 52 meeting rooms of various sizes, 40,000m2 of exhibition space over nine halls, 3 auditoria, a conference hall and a 2,300seat theatre allow us to host pretty much anything. All meeting rooms are equipped with 108-inch LCD screens which is currently the largest LCD screen in the world. Not only do the exhibition halls have the capacity to host 10,000 seated guests, they provide pillar-less exhibition space and are equipped with 30 km of trussing and 1,800 motorized hoists. The exhibition halls are fitted with full colour LED lighting which allows organizers to control the ambience of their event.

The 3 auditoria and the 2,300-capacity theatre are equipped with the latest acoustic technologies. The building is also designed to

Qatar National Convention Centre

operate efficiently with innovations including water-saving fixtures, energy-conserving LED lighting, variable air-volume systems and over 3,500m2 of solar panels which provide 12.5% of QNCC’s energy needs. It has a gold LEED certification!

HQ: How will you position the centre among the already existing ones in the Middle East?

Trevor McCartney: One of QNCC’s advantages is the Centre’s capacity. This is attractive for organisers/clients because we are able to host an event of pretty much any size with many breakout sessions in one venue.

There are exciting times ahead for Qatar as the state is getting ready for the FIFA World Cup in 2022 and some other high-profile events in the near future including the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change later this year.

While many countries in the region are still recovering from the economic downturn, Qatar’s economy has remained stable, even growing, making it a highly desirable destination for business investments and tourism.

Compared to many other countries, Qatar is also undoubtedly one of the safest in the world.

For the MICE industry, this is very important.

HQ: What is your strategy regarding international associations?

Trevor McCartney: The majority of the international associations are headquartered in Europe and we believe that there is great potential for us to thrust QNCC and Qatar further into this market. We are working closely with the local offices and corporate organizations to introduce them to the opportunities available in Qatar. At the same time, as a member of Qatar Foundation, we are also focused on attracting associations in the field of education, and science and research.

HQ: Do you think you could benefit from the creation of a Qatar Convention Bureau that appears to be missing currently?

Trevor McCartney: A national convention bureau can actively drive and attract the right kind of conferences to support the state’s vision to become a leading business destination and bolster Qatar as the preferred choice in the international MICE marketplace. Currently we are working with Qatar Tourism Authority to promote Qatar and QNCC to the target markets.

CONTACT

QNCC Theatre

Trevor McCartney Director of Business Development Qatar National Convention Centre +974 4470 7050 www.qatarconvention.com

HEADQUARTERS 27

HQ > RIMINI

PALACONGRESSI CONFERENCE CENTRE IN RIMINI More is good

THE BRAND-NEW, SUPER GOOD-LOOKING PALACONGRESSI CONFERENCE CENTRE IN RIMINI WAS INAUGURATED LAST OCTOBER IN AN ARRAY OF FIREWORKS AND CHEERS

RIMINI PALACONGRESSI CENTRE IN NUMBERS

FROM THE MEETINGS INDUSTRY. ONE OF THE LARGEST AND MOST VERSATILE VENUES IN EUROPE, IT’S AT THE FOREFRONT OF FLEXIBILITY, TECHNOLOGY AND SUSTAINABILITY.

Edgar Hirt, AIPC (the international association of congress centres) President, said it himself at the inauguration of the Palacongressi Conferente Centre in Rimini: ‘It’s a real pearl. The architects have combined an atmosphere that reflects Rimini with a functionality that is ‘state of the art’ which will provide a successful future for the region.’ Indeed when you stand in front of the venue, you can’t but be amazed by its good looks, like a meeting shell that came to life. When you enter the premises, the wow effect is definitely there: spacious, airy, flexible are the first words that come to mind. It’s hard not to see how good the venue will fare when it comes to hosting high profile events of all kinds.

HEADQUARTERS 28

A CONCENTRATE OF TECHNOLOGY AND SUSTAINABILITY The Palacongressi is a concentrate of technology, particularly that for conferences, in order to meet every request on behalf of a demanding market orientated towards the use of the most modern opportunities.

One thing should be noted though: the technological apparatus at the Palacongressi is ‘hidden’, in the sense that the greatest possible care was taken with safeguarding the building’s architecture to the utmost, to avoid it seeming the addition of elements to the structure, but as their integration in the structure, respecting the excellent architectural setting. All this ensures flexibility and

+ 15,500 m2 ground floor surface area + 10,200 m2 first floor surface area + 3 entrances + 23 metres ceiling height of ‘shell’ + 17 metres ceiling height in main hall + 39 meeting rooms + 9,000 delegates - maximum capacity + 4,700 delegates - maximum capacity in main room + 500 underground car parking spaces + Bus terminal for private coaches and public buses + Pick up/set down area for 10 coaches

facilitates inspection and maintenance of all the systems. The general control room of the conference technologies enables, for instance, all the single control rooms to be interconnected, but also to receive external contributions with dedicated lines.

> RIMINI

TEN GOOD REASONS TO CHOOSE RIMINI CONFERENCE CENTRE

Entrance Foyer

The centre has complete wi-fi coverage with internet access and a 100 Megabyte outgoing connection.

The system enables to configure internal virtual networks which can be controlled by the individual conferences to also organize modern communication systems connecting listeners and speakers directly during a conference. It is therefore possible to interact, carry out tests, vote and make comments.

A lot of emphasis was also laid on energy saving, achieved by using LED lighting and low-consumption fluorescent lamps. The control of the electric parameters and their management by the centralized supervision system (BMS) ensures the optimization of consumption. At the end of your event, you can also obtain a green certificate via Eventi Sostenibili®, the Corporate Social Responsibility and environmental communication project for event promoters and organizers, which aims to reduce the environmental impact of an event, improving its degree of sustainability, certifying the results achieved and offering effective communication instruments.

HIGHLY VERSATILE Confirming the formidable versatility of the venue, the following events have already been secured for 2012: + National Osteology Symposium 2012 (1,500 delegates) + 70th Italian Companion Animal Veterinary Association International Congress (3,000 delegates) + Investment & Trading Forum 2012 (4,000 delegates) + Roy Martina Experience Omega Healing Experience (2,000 delegates)

the Piazza Hall

+ World Leisure Congress 2012 (1,000 delegates) + Nobel Biocare Symposium 2012 (1,200 delegates) + BE-WIZARD 2012! The Web Marketing Plus (1,000 delegates) + Italian Society of Neurology National Congress 2012 (2,300 delegates) Of course the Convention Bureau della Riviera di Rimini (CBRR) is here to help.

In addition to managing the new Palacongressi conference centre, they can do wonders when it comes to marketing and communicating about your events.

It starts with the COL - the Local Organizing Committee, an event reception system coordinated by CBRR whose members include the main provincial institutions. Its aim is to promote events by backing national and international bids, with possible financial contributions, by getting local Administrations to officially welcome delegates during the opening ceremony and by organizing other forms of welcome for guests arriving in town.

The COL sets Rimini apart from other destinations, because it guarantees event organizers a non-stop link between the local authorities and the business community operating in the tourism sector.

URBAN TRAVEL AND CULTURE Meetings inevitably involve transport too and conference delegates have access to Urban Travel Tickets, customized services with Trenitalia for transferring large numbers of people by train, shuttle services to and from the Region’s airports, info-desks at airports and stations, agreements with the local Taxi Cooperative for special rates, car rentals at favourable rates, a Luxury Car service for VIPs and bike sharing.

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Largest convention centre in the country Highly flexible and functional Multiple organisation of events Extensive and excellently equipped exhibition space Easily accessible Underground parking facilities State-of-the-art technology Areas especially designed for catering services Quality interiors and furnishing Strong commitment to the environment

To help visitors get the most out of the area, CBRR offers guided cultural tours to historic monuments in the town and inland, as well as customized shopping itineraries. CBRR can also help by searching for local gourmet foods and wines or for artistic items for gifts for speakers or delegates. CBRR also arranges attractive spa or wellness centre treatment packages as well as supplying tourist information materials for delegates.

In addition, the Bureau offers ‘RIMINI.ID - Carta d’Identità della destinazione’, an interactive ‘ID card’ with general information about the town and the Rimini Riviera, available in digital format.

CBRR has also prepared some innovative communication services that can help you market your event(s) in the most efficient way. From the ‘news on line’ on the home page of the CBRR website, to a press office service for distributing press releases, photographic and television services, press, radio and poster planning, anything seems possible!

CONTACT Monica Petermann International Business Development T. +39 054 11 71 15 00 info@riminipalacongressi.it www.riminipalacongressi.it

HEADQUARTERS 29

HQ

LOUDLY LAUSANNE THERE ARE MANY DESTINATIONS IN EUROPE WHICH CAN CLAIM THEY ARE ‘IN THE CENTRE OF EUROPE’. WHILE IT'S HARDLY TRUE FOR SOME OF THEM, THIS DEFINITELY APPLIES TO LAUSANNE, WHICH I WAS LUCKY TO DISCOVER FOR A FEW DAYS LAST NOVEMBER, ON THE OCCASION OF THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF THE BRAND-NEW SWISS TECH CONVENTION CENTER. AND WHO WOULD

© Laurent Ryser

©F François ran rra an a nço ççoi oiis B o Bertin ert e er rrttiin n

© Muris Camo

© Photolulu

© Régis Colombo - www.diapo.ch

> LAUSANNE

Everybody knows Lausanne because it’s the Olympic Capital of the world, home to the major institutions of the movement and many international federations. Sport is everywhere to be seen: stadiums, skating rinks, swimming pools, to name a few only, are surrounded by great outdoor facilities, which allows horse riding, cycling, golfing, ‘water-sporting’ and so on. Lausanne even takes pride in its Olympic Museum, which is about to be revamped from top to bottom (and which will be a very unique venue for events and meetings).

HAVE THOUGHT LAUSANNE WOULD BE SO MUCH FUN? NESTLING BETWEEN VINEYARDS, GREEN PASTURES AND DEEP FORESTS, IT OVERLOOKS BEAUTIFUL LAKE GENEVA AND BOASTS ALL THE INFRASTRUCTURES THE DEMANDING MEETING PLANNERS LONG FOR. TEXT RÉMI DÉVÉ

HEADQUARTERS 30

But there’s definitely more to Lausanne than sport. In fact, if it boasts already quite some state-of-the-art hotels, special venues and convention centres (and even a new one, see sidebar), its ambition is to become an even better ‘centre of excellence’ that it already is. With its University, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EFPL), specialized colleges and international private schools (management and hospitality are just two

of Lausanne’s strengths), Lausanne is a hub of learning and won’t stop there.

When talking to Claude Petitpierre, director of Lausanne Tourisme, you realize that the city is never at a standstill. He says: ‘Lausanne has excellent infrastructures when it comes

Lausanne’s ambition is to become an even better ‘centre of excellence’ that it already is

to business tourism. No one can doubt our economic, tourists and social assets. But our ambition is to provide more unified efforts, with, for example, a network of ambassadors coming from our universities, schools or hospitals, a renewed accommodation offer

© 2011 EPFL

> LAUSANNE

Swiss Tech Convention Center

ONE-OF-A-KIND SWISS TECH CONVENTION CENTER

© 2011 EPFL

In 2013, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, better known as EPFL, will open the world’s first fully-automated congress centre, the Swiss Tech Convention Center. The infrastructure, which will include ultra-modern equipment, will be flexible and modular, with the possibility of being divided into auditoriums with 330, 468, 1,670, 2,135 or 3,000 places, using computer commands.

Swiss Tech Convention Center

or an even greater variety of options to get together, no matter the occasion.’

Of course, I could not visit everything on offer during my stay in Lausanne. But Philipp Steiner, Congress & Event Manager at Lausanne Tourisme & Convention Bureau, made sure that I got a good glimpse of the city. My busy programme included a nice combination of venues, of which I will try to list my favorites.

A visit in Lausanne would not be complete without a stop-over at MCH Beaulieu Lausanne, the long-standing and recently expanded convention centre. Close both to the inner city and the airport, it seems to offer ideal conditions for delegates with a view of the nearby Alps. Christel Porchet, Sales and Marketing Manager, emphasized the ‘extreme flexibility’ of the venue.

She says: ‘Our modular space allows us to accommodate from 12 to 4,600 people.

And with our renowned theatre and movie

theatre, it gives a special something to anybody looking for a venue with a little twist.’

I was personally impressed - and who would not be? - by the Beau-Rivage Palace and the Lausanne Palace & Spa. If the former, overlooking the lake, has history, relaxation, beautiful written all over it, the latter combines savoir vivre, Belle Epoque architecture and modern lifestyle. The two of them of course boast meeting facilities carefully designed to make any gathering a success (capacity: up to 600 people at the Beau-Rivage and 350 at the Lausanne Palace).

In a few minutes, the amphitheatre seating 2,135 people will be easily convertible into a banqueting hall of 1,890 m2. The gallery will have 865 places, and at garden level will feature around 15 breakout rooms. To me, it resembles more or less Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, whose plenary hall can be transformed in a matter of minutes as well just by pushing a button, but even more modern and flexible, if that can be possible!

The Swiss Tech Convention Center will be a significant asset for EPFL in particular, and more generally for the polytechnics, with the objective of attracting the most prestigious scientific congresses and conferences from around the world. It will foster exchanges between scientists, and will enable researchers working on the campus to benefit from an indispensable ‘tool’ for showcasing their work. Not forgetting the students and local communities, which will be able to make use of a complex with both a social and cultural dimension.

Isabelle Aubert, EFPL General Site Manager, is pretty confident in the future. She says: ‘With the pool of ambassadors we already have in our polytechnical university, if every of our professors host or bring one event every five years, we will have the Center filled every day. Which is way more than we can wish for.’ www.tstcc.ch

CONTACT Last but not least is the Château de Chillon.

One of many castles on the outskirts of Lausanne, it’s a double-faced château, a fortified castle on one side and a prince’s residence on the other. It can be visited from the basement to the dungeon and do cocktails for up to 350 people. For a gala evening, it could well be an ideal venue.

Philipp Steiner Congress & Event Manager Lausanne Tourisme & Convention Bureau T.+ 41 21 613 73 67 steiner@lausanne-tourisme.ch www.lausanne.biz

HEADQUARTERS 31

HQ >FRANCE

Nice

Cannes

THE FRENCH CÔTE D’AZUR REVAMPED FOR MANY DECADES, THE FRENCH CÔTE D’AZUR (OR THE FRENCH RIVIERA) HAS BEEN ON THE TOP LIST OF MANY MEETINGS ORGANIZERS. THEY INDEED USUALLY PERCEIVE THE REGION AS ONE WITH ALWAYS BEAUTIFUL WEATHER, DOTTED WITH BEAUTIFUL SEASIDE CITIES ALL HAVING GRAND HOTELS ORGANIZING WORLD-FAMOUS EVENTS. BUT COMPETITION AMONG OTHER UPCOMING SEASIDE COUNTRIES LIKE CROATIA AND SPAIN IS TOUGH. SO THE FRENCH HAVE NOT RESTED ON THEIR LAURELS AND INVESTED IN NEW INFRASTRUCTURE. THE REGIONAL CONVENTION BUREAU, TOGETHER WITH THE FRENCH CONVENTION BUREAU, INVITED AN INTERNATIONAL MEETINGS INDUSTRY PRESS GROUP TO SEE ALL THE CHANGES FOR THEMSELVES. REPORT CÉCILE CAIATI-KOCH

FROM BLUE SEA REGION TO BLUE CHIP COAST General tourism attractiveness is no longer just the big influencer for the selection of a congress destination. The decisive selection is business driven, which the French have understood quite well. They had us meet with the people from Team Côte d’Azur who informed us about the main new project in the region, the Var Valley, which will be a cluster of smart communication technology with emphasis on sustainable and IT technology development. It will work closely with the already existing Sophia Antipolis in order to further enhance the international appeal of the Côte d’Azur, to make it what is called the ‘Blue Chip Coast’. In total there will

HEADQUARTERS 32

be 8 clusters which will be of interest to the specific associations.

During an intense but always interesting trip, we visited two key cities in the meetings market, Nice and Cannes, which were eager to show off their investments in the meetings industry. We also went to have a look around two smaller cities, Mandelieu-La Napoule and Antibes-Juan Les Pins, which are about to set foot in the industry as well.

IN NICE In Nice, everybody was obviously in awe of the congress centre, the Acropolis. The main auditorium has been completely redone: new chairs, new wooden wall panels,

new mechanic systems. The venue has a glass roof which can be opened, to let the light in in the most beautiful way. It seems each and every hotel has been around

‘Reality has to exceed the promises.’

Denis Zanon, General Manager of Nice Convention & Visitors Bureau

since the ‘Garden of Eden” region started welcoming well- to-do tourists, so they are all set in formidable surroundings. Of course they have been well maintained over the years and have done their own share

> FRANCE

Mandelieu-La Napoule

of investments: Hotel le Negresco with its modern art pieces is striking! Boscolo Nice just opened after a total refurbishing and Radisson SAS is ideally located close to the international airport, the second in France.

IN CANNES Cannes has invested a lot in the upgrading of the congress centre - you may have seen it during the famous Cannes Film Festival or the G20 Summit. An all-white venue (it’s been painted this way!), it’s also a ‘green Palais for a blue Planet’: it just received the triple certification of ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 (Quality, Safety and Environment). The infrastructure itself has also been modernized in order to meet the needs of today’s meeting organizers.

Hotel Martinez is situated on the famous Boulevard de La Croisette, and has a beautiful Art Deco setting. A lot of top

Palais des Congrès, Antibes-Juan les Pins

international events have chosen this hotel, as it is equipped to host any size, shape or style of event. It has a conference room of 2,500 m2 and 15 modular meeting rooms.

The other fine hotel located on the same Boulevard is Intercontinental Carlton Cannes Hotel. Its building celebrated its century

‘Cannes isn't just a bling-bling destination, a lot of efforts have been made to make it sustainable and green.’

Isabelle Gainche, of the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès anniversary in 2011 and still takes pride of its Belle Epoque façade. The Grand Salon is even listed in the historical monuments of France.

But of course the hotel is also a modern and multi-functional venue for up to 750 people in 12 modular meeting rooms.

Expo Congress Centre. This venue is the only medium-sized facility on the French Rivera.

It is certified ISO 14001, so its standards are high! More upscale accommodation can be found in the MMV Resort & Spa and of course at the Pullman Royal Casino hotel. Both offer great views and beautiful settings. A small jewel for sure to be recommended is the Château of la Napoule, a hidden treasure where cocktails and dinners can be organized.

WHEN LUXURY MEETS AUTHENCITY: ANTIBES-JUAN LES PINS Antibes-Juan Les Pins is a very charming city east of Cannes with an old centre and a rich cultural history (you should definitely check out the Picasso Museum). The town, or better said the village, offers you a wide range of ‘deluxe’ or ‘de charme’ hotels.

Plans for a brand-new congress centre in the middle of the city have been approved: the venue will open in Spring 2013.

MANDELIEU-LA NAPOULE: THE MIMOSA CAPITAL

Hotel Martinez

Mandelieu-La Napoule is situated south-west of Cannes (with easy access from the airport) and offers a range of meeting facilities and hotel accommodation for smaller budgets with the Pierre et Vacances Resort and its

MORE INFORMATION www.cotedazur-tourisme.com www.franceguidepro.com

HEADQUARTERS 33

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FOR INTERNATIONAL Ă&#x; Â&#x2026; Ă&#x; Ă&#x17E; Ă&#x2026; Ă&#x2026; Ă&#x17E; â&#x20AC;ŤÚ&#x17D;â&#x20AC;ŹáŹ&#x2026;ŕĄ&#x2122;â&#x20AC;Ť×¸â&#x20AC;ŹÇ&#x152;Ëźŕ &#x2019;Ö&#x2014;޾ʹ៝á&#x17E;°ŕ§Śá??á&#x152;&#x2021; TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd TTGĚ&#x17D;ฯÍ&#x153;Ţľŕ°ŚáŹ?Đ?Ő&#x192; Tel á&#x201A;&#x192;á&#x17E;&#x2014;: (65) 6395 7575 Fax Í&#x153;á&#x201E;ž: (65) 6536 0896 Email á&#x201A;&#x192;ß&#x2022;Ἅá&#x160;¸: itcmchina@ttgasia.com ORGANISED BY

SHANGHAI

BUSINESS EVENTS WEEK

FOR CHINA-BASED Ă&#x; Â&#x2026; Ă&#x; Ă&#x17E; Ă&#x2026; Ă&#x2026; Ă&#x17E; Ë&#x2014;â&#x20AC;Ť×¸ŕĄ&#x2122;Ú&#x17D;â&#x20AC;ŹÇ&#x152;Ëźŕ &#x2019;Ö&#x2014;޾ʹ៝á&#x17E;°ŕ§Śá??á&#x152;&#x2021; CITS International MICE â&#x20AC;ŤÚ&#x17D;â&#x20AC;ŹŕŽťáźˇÓ&#x2019;Ě&#x203A;៸ â&#x20AC;ŤÚ&#x17D;â&#x20AC;ŹáŹ&#x2026;Í&#x2DC;á?ŹŕĄ&#x2122;á&#x153;żŕ°ŚáŹ?Đ?Ő&#x192; Tel á&#x201A;&#x192;á&#x17E;&#x2014;: (86) 021 3304 9999 Fax Í&#x153;á&#x201E;ž: (86) 021 6350 9030 Email á&#x201A;&#x192;ß&#x2022;Ἅá&#x160;¸: itcmachina@cits.com.cn

FOR CHINA-BASED OPERATIONS ŕĄ&#x2122;Í&#x2DC;á&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;ŤÚ¤â&#x20AC;Źá¤&#x201A;á&#x2013;šáźťá&#x17E;°ŕ§Śá??á&#x152;&#x2021; MP International (Shanghai) Pte Ltd Ë&#x2014;ழÍ&#x2DC;ŕĄ&#x2122;១ʽŕš&#x2019;៸ఌáŹ?Đ?Ő&#x192; Tel á&#x201A;&#x192;á&#x17E;&#x2014;: (86) 021 6295 9990 Fax Í&#x153;á&#x201E;ž: (86) 021 6270 6030 Email á&#x201A;&#x192;ß&#x2022;Ἅá&#x160;¸: info-shg@mpshanghai.com

SUPPORTED BY

IT&CM China 2012 is proud to be part of the Shanghai Business Events Week.

Where The MICE Industry Comes Together In Shanghai. In An Exciting Week Of Business, Education and Networking Events.

HQ

> IT&CM CHINA

IT&CM CHINA 2012 LARGER THAN EVER Event to also deliver high educational content BOOTH SALES FOR IT&CM CHINA 2012, TAKING PLACE 17-19 APRIL IN SHANGHAI, HAVE CONCLUDED WITH THE EVENT BOASTING A 30% LARGER EXHIBITION SHOWCASE. MORE THAN 300 INTERNATIONAL AND CHINESE EXHIBITING COMPANIES WILL FILL EXHIBITION SPACE AMOUNTING TO OVER 6,000 M2.

The larger exhibition showcase has been attributed primarily to new participants.

Some 50 new international and domestic exhibiting companies, covering over 25% of the total IT&CM China 2012 showcase, will offer buyers fresh procurement opportunities. First-time exhibitors include, among many others, Ningbo Tourism Administration, Government of Dubai, Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Jeju Convention & Visitor Bureau, Switzerland Tourism and Geneva Convention Bureau and Turkish Embassy Culture and Information Section.

Meanwhile, the event also sees an increase in returning exhibitors’ booth sizes on both the domestic and international front. While China’s own Sanya Tourism Bureau have affirmed their confidence in the event with a 20% increase in their destination pavilion, other returning destinations such as Seoul are also seeing the value of investing in a dedicated pavilion of their own. For the first time, Seoul is participating at IT&CM China 2012 with a dedicated 84 m2 pavilion. They have previously exhibited within the Korea pavilion.

In addition, other returning exhibitors include Hangzhou Tourism Promotion

Center, Meetings and Exhibitions Hong Kong - a division of Hong Kong Tourism Board, Info Salons, Japan National Tourism Organisation, Kempinski Hotels, Korea Tourism Organisation, Macau Government Tourist Office, Melia Hotels International, Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau, Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, Wuzhen Tourism… and many more!

The confidence of both new and returning exhibitors to IT&CM China 2012 reaffirms IT&CM China as the leading international MICE event in China - a choice business platform for both international and Chinese industry players to seek outbound, inbound and domestic opportunities.

The show’s expansion in terms of numbers and its global footprint is mirrored in its buyer delegation, as IT&CM China 2012 draws participating interest from a host of new countries. International Buyer registrations have crossed the 400 mark, with representation from first-time participating countries, Czech Republic, Denmark and Morocco.

First-time buyer Michael Packford, CEO of The Packfords Group - EVENTWORLD shared:

‘The one aspect of IT&CM China 2012 I am most looking forward to is acquiring product knowledge and business contacts to further develop into the China MICE market. I believe that IT&CM China has clearly established itself as China’s premier exhibition for the MICE industry and is dedicated to promoting the best of China to the world market.’

With a new venue, IT&CM China 2012 will be supported by a fresh line-up of 4 official hotels, namely Gran Melia Shanghai, InterContinental Shanghai Expo, Marriott Shanghai Luwan and Sheraton Shanghai Hotel and Residences, Pudong, all conveniently located at close proximity to the exhibition venue and will serve as the accommodation for all hosted buyers and media.

In addition, IT&CM China’s strategic alliances with leading international and local MICE organisations - such as Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration (SMTA), Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE), Australian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE), Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) and International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) - to deliver educational and networking content, will contribute to a compelling programme.

For more information, please visit www.itcmchina.com

HEADQUARTERS 37

HQ

> MEETINGS FOREST

OUR MEETINGS FOREST an update

IT’S BEEN A LONG TIME SINCE WE LAST WROTE ABOUT OUR MEETINGS FOREST IN SCOTLAND. WE SIMPLY WANTED TO LET OUR TREES GROW QUIETLY AND PEACEFULLY! NOW IS TIME TO GIVE YOU A

A TREE COSTS JUST £5 AND YOU CAN BUY / DONATE IT ON WWW.HEADQUARTERSMAGAZINE.COM

LITTLE UPDATE, AND AGAIN TO EXPLAIN WHY, HOW, WHEN WE HAVE COME UP WITH THIS SUSTAINABLE PROJECT.

THE ORIGINS The worldwide meetings industry has known two separate developments in the last decade. On one hand the activities and services rendered by the industry itself were being questioned as whether or not they were sustainable. On the other, clients, ie organizations of all kinds, private companies etc. still wanted to be able to meet, but their demands became more and more stringent: they wanted to get together at conventions, conferences and meetings and at the same time help the earth and the people get more sustainable.

Sustainability has thus been completely integrated in companies’ visions and strategies, their guidelines and intentions are nowadays part of their charters and websites.

Legacy programs and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) have become a reality.

SUSTAINABLE AWARENESS The meetings industry service providers, such as hotels, airlines, congress centres and

HEADQUARTERS 38

destinations, realized they had to go with the flow. They all developed in their own way programmes that help to get sustainable. Green Globe, Green Key, EU Ecolabel, APEX Green Meeting Standards are just a few of the initiatives or certifications that recently saw the light of day. Since a couple of years it can be safely stated that players of the meetings industry have followed the demand of their clients.

THE INITIATIVE Meeting Media Company, a publishing house within the meetings industry, has been printing its magazines (Headquarters and MIM Europe) since long on FSC paper and publishing articles on sustainability on a regular base. But in September 2009 we realized a general platform for people, companies and service providers from all over the world in the meetings industry was lacking: people did their own things all by themselves but there was no worldwide platform where one could share best practices, ideas and information. Hence the idea of the global Meetings Forest.

This forest is a plot of land (or grove), part of the Caledonian Forest in the Highlands of Scotland which is monitored by an independent organization called Trees for Life (www.treesforlife.org.uk). Communication and marketing activities were developed at international fairs, in our websites and in the magazines. With big success: soon the industry followed, and congress centres, destinations and trade associations donated trees to the forest.

Headquarters and MIM Europe are determined to continue to promote the initiative and in 2012 new actions are planned… in partnership with a well-known charity organization. Stay tuned!

MORE INFO www.headquartersmagazine.com > meetings forest

POWERING THE PACE OF GLOBAL BUSINESS With around 2,000 exhibitors, the inaugural IMEX America is the largest meetings industry trade show in the U.S. This event is now the pacesetter, the game-changerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and already turning up the beat for 2012. Be here!

the

pulse of the meetings industry.

imexamerica.com

The captain and his crew wish you a very relaxing flight in our Premium Voyageur Class, designed with extra room to stretch your legs and to enjoy the privacy of our innovative shell-seats.

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