Elevate, the UK’s largest free mentoring programme for event professionals, hosted its annual kick-off event in London on 27 March to launch its 2025 programme. Since its inception, Elevate has supported and inspired over 2,000 individuals across the sector.

Held at Protein Studios in Shoreditch, the event welcomed 250 guests from across the events industry to celebrate the start of Elevate’s landmark tenth anniversary year.

The evening provided mentors and mentees the opportunity to share their experiences. Elevate also introduced its 2025 programme partners: Cvent, Jack Morton, Live Union, Powwow, Protein Studios, PSP, The Production Department and We Are Collider. Its supporters include; 2LK, CastleBell, Trivandi, TRO, Xquisite Productions, Special Sauce Training (Training Partner), TIMES x10 Coaching and Nic Neal (People and Culture Partners), ABPCO, EMC3, Event Decision, Hels and Seen Presents. All are united by Elevate’s mission to transform lives, careers and the industry for the better.

Led by industry pioneers Melissa Noakes, Max Fellows and Peter Kerwood, Elevate is completely free to join. It has a single core purpose: to inspire, inform and empower professionals within the events sector.

The programme has more than doubled in size over the past two years. In 2025, a record-breaking cohort of nearly 600 participants have been matched, representing 265 different businesses. Collectively, Elevate’s mentors bring over 3,545 years of industry experience. With applicants from 15 countries across North America, EMEA and APAC, Elevate’s global reach continues to grow.

Max Fellows commented: “When we launched Elevate 10 years ago, we never dreamed just how big it would become. We are so grateful to everyone – our mentors, mentees, partners and supporters – for their continued belief in what we do.”

Melissa Noakes added: “A huge thank you to everyone who joined us at Protein Studios for our 2025 kick-off and to all those who continue to make Elevate such a powerful and impactful programme. We can’t wait to see the relationships that form and the mentoring journeys that unfold over the coming year, from graduates to senior professionals advancing their careers.”

Peter Kerwood said: “The Elevate community continues to draw in some of the most brilliant, kind, generous and inspiring minds in the industry. Our kick-off event was a perfect reflection of that. The atmosphere was absolutely electric!”

As Elevate enters its tenth year, the programme remains committed to shaping the future of the events industry by connecting, developing and empowering its people, one mentoring relationship at a time.

The TNBFC XPO serves as a key platform for networking and knowledge exchange, designed to accelerate Black representation in the UK and global screen industries. The five-day hybrid event, running from March 24-28, will once again take place at Rich Mix, which recently hosted the BAFTA-winning British short film Rock, Paper, Scissors—a project that first premiered at BUFF in October, securing its BAFTA qualification.

BUFF, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, became a BAFTA-qualifying festival in 2020 and remains the UK’s longest-running platform dedicated to urban independent cinema. In a statement, Anyiam-Osigwe said: “I’m thrilled to join the New Black Film Collective XPO as a keynote speaker. As BUFF marks 20 years, it’s vital to continue pushing for greater representation and sustainability in film diversity. I look forward to engaging with industry peers and inspiring the next generation of filmmakers and storytellers.”

Backed by Film London, BFI, Film & TV Charity, Directors UK, and NFTS, TNBFC XPO 2025 will be free to the public, reinforcing its mission to foster a vibrant Black ecosystem in the UK screen industries by championing Black-led film production, distribution, exhibition and preserving Black filmmaking and television.

Taking place on 1 April at IET London: Savoy Place, the signature event organised by the leading Think Tank and Advocacy Network for the business events sector, has already attracted over 260 registrations from senior industry figures representing some of the sector’s most recognised brands.

Its programme, which is designed to unlock the potential and drive growth within the UK’s business events economy, features a stellar lineup of politicians, policymakers and industry leaders. These include Shaun Davies MP chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Events; Dame Caroline Dinenage DBE MP chair of the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee; and columnist and politician Lord Daniel Finkelstein OBE.

Seasoned news anchor, reporter and broadcaster Trish Lynch will moderate the day, which will also feature Senthil Gopinath, Chief Executive of ICCA; Neil Brownlee, newly elected Chair of PCMA and Head of Business Events at VisitScotland; Kerry Prince UK Managing Director of RX Global; Paul Black, Head of Business Events at VisitBritain/Meet England; as well as Mickael Benaim PhD, Head of Research at SFA Connect. 

Mike Fletcher, Director of News & Content at The Business of Events, said: “Our Global Policy Forum, which is TBOE’s main event of the year, is a pivotal gathering for industry leaders, providing a unique opportunity to shape the future of the business events sector and its role in economic growth. With such strong interest already, we’re looking forward to insightful discussions that will drive meaningful change.”

Senior industry leaders can still register their interest to attend here. The full programme can be viewed here.

More information on supporting the Global Policy Forum as well as the annual Westminster Dinner that will be held on 31 March, is available here.

I celebrate the strength, resilience and innovation of women around the world, especially in business. As a female business owner, I recognise the obstacles we often face, but I also know the immense power we hold to create change. It’s essential for us to continue to support and uplift each other to break down barriers and to inspire the next generation of female leaders.

In the exhibition and events industry, it’s crucial that we actively drive progress by creating environments where women have equal access to opportunities, leadership roles and platforms to showcase their work, products and innovations. To do that, it’s essential that we each prioritise accelerating change to ensure that women are fully represented and empowered to succeed at every level.

Alexandra Baily, vice chair, Event Supplier and Services Association (ESSA)

 At Clermont Hotel Group (CHG) we are accelerating action by actively addressing and providing support to navigate some of the barriers and biases that women face both personally and professionally, taking steps towards gender parity in line with International Women Day’s roots and values.

We have built partnerships with external experts to support our teams, including inspiring women like Robyn Filep and Eleni Kasparis from ‘Becoming’, and highlighted the impact of Perimenopause and Menopause through inclusive company-wide discussions across all roles and genders to broaden and implement better understanding. We also support female leaders through Jodi Goldman’s ‘Face Forward‘ programme, supporting them to uncover their visibility, influence and presence. Accelerating action through female leadership is a priority for us at CHG and has driven our investment in workshops and most recently a bespoke ‘Women in Leadership’ apprenticeship— we’re thrilled that this initiative has already welcomed a number of current and future leaders.

Amanda Hall, head of talent and organisational development, Clermont Hotel Group

I imagine a world where gender equality is the norm, where bias, stereotypes and discrimination don’t hold women back. A world where diversity is embraced, everyone has a fair shot, and differences are valued.

In hospitality, we have a real chance to make this happen by creating workplaces that uplift women and give them the opportunities they deserve. That means promoting more women into leadership, ensuring fair pay, and making work policies flexible so caregivers don’t have to choose between career and family. Mentorship programmes can help women grow in their careers, and recognising their achievements ensures their contributions don’t go unnoticed. By hiring more inclusively and removing bias from recruitment, we can open doors for more women in the industry. Change happens when we keep supporting each other and proving that talent and determination, not gender, define success.

Katie Remnant, marketing co-ordinator, Foxhills Club & Resort

International Women’s Day is a crucial moment to come together and push for real progress on gender equality. This year’s theme, #AcceleratingAction, highlights that there’s still plenty of work to do. At Hospitality Action, our support is non-discriminatory and inclusive, supporting women of all ages with a range of issues such as in work poverty, relationship breakdown, domestic abuse and addiction. We want to make sure that women have the same opportunities to grow and succeed without the limitations of a glass ceiling, and we’re committed to helping women who find themselves in crisis through no fault of their own to feel safe, supported and empowered. By working together, we can help create a world where every woman has the chance to thrive, free from any discrimination or bias, to forge women’s equality.

Giuliana Vittiglio, head of fundraising and marketing, Hospitality Action

 To truly accelerate action in hospitality, the industry must normalise flexible working arrangements at all levels. Providing options such as adjusted hours, remote work, compressed weeks and job sharing ensures that flexibility is accessible to all genders, allowing for a better balance between work and personal responsibilities.

Additionally, I would like to see more mentorship programmes to create opportunities for individuals to connect with experienced professionals, helping to guide career development and build a more diverse and inclusive leadership pipeline. At Central Hall Venues we are proud to have five female leaders! By taking these steps, we can create a more equitable industry that supports the growth and success of all.

Rhiannon Thomas, head of sales and marketing, Central Hall Venues

 I’ve been fortunate to work in companies that offer flexibility and opportunities for all. However, the number of women in senior leadership roles still needs to improve, and we must continue to challenge unconscious bias in what has historically been a male-dominated industry.

To accelerate action in hospitality, I’d like to see:

Greater Representation in Leadership: more women in senior leadership roles through structured mentorship, transparent career pathways, and leadership development initiatives.

Flexible Work Policies: continued progress in family-friendly and flexible working options to support career progression and to not lose females out of the industry.

Louisa Green, managing director, RBH Hospitality Management

“This is a topic close to my heart, and at Northstar, we are fortunate to have women not only playing vital roles across our company but also holding key leadership positions.

However, despite the majority of the business meetings and events industry being female, this has yet to be reflected at the senior leadership level—though progress is being made.

At The Meetings Show, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all visitors can learn, connect and leave feeling informed, inspired and empowered to advance their careers—regardless of their gender or career stage.

Over the years, we’ve taken action by collaborating with partners like Women in Exhibitions, which champions female leadership in the industry, and Event First Steps, which nurtures the next generation of talent. Our partnership with EventWell has further strengthened our focus on inclusivity, deepening our understanding of neurodiversity and ensuring we create a welcoming space for all.

Holding space for discussions designed to drive meaningful change for the industry is a key aspect of our education programme with sessions designed to support and empower our attendees so they can accelerate action in their own way.”

Emily Roberts, senior marketing manager, Northstar Travel Group / The Meetings Show

 At Wotton House, we have always embraced gender equality, with success driven by skills and values rather than gender. Hospitality is about being welcoming and taking care of guests – qualities that are not defined by gender. We actively review our talent pool to maintain a balanced workforce and ensure equal access to training and leadership opportunities. Notably, our Employee of the Year and Most Valuable Player awards were all won by women, recognised purely for their incredible contributions and merit.

However, some roles such as in the kitchen, or engineering remain male-dominated due to long-standing perceptions. To accelerate action, we are investing in apprenticeships, and local school partnerships to attract a more diverse talent pipeline. By being more inclusive, we can create a stronger, more equitable industry for all.

Edward Adshead, general manager, Wotton House

With over 700,000 people employed in the sector, the UK events industry plays a crucial role in economic growth. The exhibition provided a unique opportunity for policymakers to connect with event industry leaders and gain a deeper understanding of the sector’s value and its potential for future expansion.

Throughout the exhibition, parliamentarians showed great interest in how the events industry directly impacts their constituencies. Many were unaware of the sector’s challenges, such as trade friction, complex visa regulations, and a lack of recognition for business events, but were eager to explore how the government could support the industry’s growth.

A vision for growth

UKEVENTS highlighted several key priorities for the sector, including:

• Developing a national events strategy to unlock further economic growth and ensure the UK remains a global leader in events.
• Integration of major business and outdoor events with key governmental industrial and social initiatives.
• Expansion of the VisitBritain Business Events Growth Programme.

The event also showcased the diversity and depth of the UK events sector, from business conferences and exhibitions to live entertainment and cultural events, and their role in facilitating growth within the visitor economy, propelling trade, exports and inward investment, while also fostering scientific inquiry, innovation and technological advancement. MPs and Lords recognised the industry’s unique ability to amplify government priorities, from boosting international trade to revitalising local economies. As a result, strengthening collaboration with the government to position the UK events industry as a strategic partner for economic and community development will be key.

Next steps

The response from parliamentarians was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their support for ongoing collaboration and future roundtable discussions with UKEVENTS and its partners.

Glenn Bowdin, Chair, UKEVENTS, said: “The UK events industry is incredibly diverse, with a rich ecosystem that encompasses everything from live experiences to business conferences and the extensive supply chain that supports them. This breadth and depth not only fuel the industry’s £61.6 billion contribution to the UK economy but also help drive growth in sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and creative industries.

“What became clear is that many MPs were largely unaware of the full scale of our industry’s impact. This exhibition was a valuable opportunity to present that message directly. The next step is to build on this momentum, following up with policymakers to create an environment where government proactively uses our industry to achieve its policy objectives while unlocking even greater opportunities for growth.

“I would like to extend my personal thanks to Jack Rankin, MP for Windsor and Vice Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Events for sponsoring our event which granted us such a unique opportunity. My sincere thanks to the multitude of MPs, Ladies, and Lords who came by to see us.”

UKEVENTS will follow up with policymakers in the coming months, encouraging MPs to visit events, creative event agencies, and event production businesses in their constituencies to witness first-hand the industry’s impact on their local communities and economies.

Michael Hirst OBE, UKEVENTS

“It was rather like working a trade show stand, catching parliamentarians on the run to other meetings. You had to adopt all sorts of comments to attract their attention. I convinced Aphra Brandreth, Conservative MP for Chester South (daughter of the broadcaster Giles Brandreth), to stop by telling her—after some sleuthful research—that we were both born at Middlesex Hospital, albeit 35 years apart!

“In most circumstances, we had less than 10 seconds to catch their attention, so we used the ‘elevator pitch,’ highlighting the £61.6 billion industry value, its growth potential, and the breadth of activities our industry covers.”

Lisa Hatswell, Unique Venues of London

“Unique Venues of London, which represents over 80 iconic venues in London, was delighted to be part of the UKEVENTS team exhibiting at the Houses of Parliament last week.

“The UKEVENTS key message that resonated with the MPs we met was that, due to the sheer diversity and value of the UK events industry and its potential for growth, a comprehensive national events strategy would benefit the industry’s future.

“MPs we met included: Esther McVey, Neil O’Brien, Aphra Brandreth, Lord Bird, Lady Winterton, and Chris Chope.”

Anna Golden, Chair, Event Industry Alliance

“I was delighted to take part in the UK Events exhibition at the House of Commons last week. The opportunity to stand side by side with fellow representatives of the UK events industry and highlight just how much the industry delivers to the UK economy was both humbling and exciting.

“The figures spoke for themselves and literally made MPs stop to learn more. The conversations flowed—we’re passionate individuals, and as a collective, we are a powerhouse!

“Our asks resonated, especially when we highlighted that we weren’t looking for funding but for support to ease trade friction and boost in-bound events, delegates, speakers, and exhibitors. We asked to be a platform for the Government’s agenda to support their narrative while promoting ours.”

David Tremmil, Vice Chair, UKEVENTS & Vice Chair, beam

“Our discussions with MPs in Parliament last week reinforced the vital £61.6 billion contribution of events to the UK economy. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many eager to understand more about the industry’s impact and the challenges faced by event venues in their constituencies.”

Louisa Watson, Chair, beam

“It’s clear from conversations with MPs and members of the House of Lords that they understand business events are not only a key economic driver but also a crucial part of local communities. We look forward to continuing this dialogue and working with UK Events and the APPG to unlock further growth and opportunities for our sector.”

Shonali Devereaux, Chief Executive, MIA

“The exhibition was a great way to shine a light on our industry, but it’s disheartening that we’re still fighting for the recognition we deserve given that events contribute £61 billion to the UK economy.

“We were encouraged by how open MPs were to hearing our concerns, but they can only act on issues raised by their constituents. We’ll be encouraging our members to invite their local MPs to events. As a white-label industry, attending events is a great chance for MPs to see first-hand the economic and social impact of our sector.”

Glenn Bowdin, Treasurer, AEME & Chair, UKEVENTS

“Education and skills development are integral to a thriving events industry and for attracting and retaining talent.  We were keen to support this event for our industry to highlight how through events management degrees, masters and event apprenticeships, future professionals have clear routes into the industry and are being equipped with the creative, logistical, and higher level knowledge and skills necessary to deliver successful events. In addition, through their research, our members are helping us to better understand the role and value of events in society, for businesses, government, and communities.”

MPs, Lords, Ladies and other stakeholders who visited the UKEVENTS stand:

1. Jack Rankin – MP for Windsor
2. Luke Myer – MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland
3. John Cooper – MP for Dumfries and Galloway
4. Rebecca Long-Bailey – MP for Salford
5. Louise Jones – MP for North East Derbyshire
6. Sarah Edwards – MP for Tamworth
7. Jonathan Brash – MP for Hartlepool
8. Connor Naismith – MP for Crewe and Nantwich
9. Helen Morgan – MP for North Shropshire
10. Jo Platt – MP for Leigh and Atherton
11. Josh Newbury – MP for Cannock Chase
12. Brittany Cunnane – Parliamentary Assistant to Emma Reynolds MP for Wycombe and Economic Secretary to HM Treasury
13. Alison Bennett – MP for Mid Sussex
14. Saqib Bhatti – MP for Meriden and Solihull East, Shadow Minister for DCMS
15. Jas Athwal – MP for Ilford South
16. Jack Abbott – MP for Ipswich
17. Sarah Dyke – MP for Glastonbury and Somerton
18. Anna Dixon – MP for Shipley
19. Clive Jones – MP for Wokingham, Liberal Democrat
20. Paul Kohler – MP for Wimbledon, Liberal Democrat
21. Kenneth Stevenson – MP for Airdrie and Shotts
22. Sonia Kumar – MP for Dudley
23. Gill German – MP for Clwyd North
24. Matt Turmaine – MP for Watford
25. Andrew Ranger – MP for Wrexham
26. Blake Stephenson – MP for Mid Bedfordshire
27. Juliet Campbell – MP for Broxtowe
28. Angus MacDonald – MP for Inverness, Skye and West Ross-shire
29. Claire Hughes – MP for Bangor Aberconwy
30. Gordon McKee – MP for Glasgow South
31. Elaine Stewart – MP for Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock
32. Patrick Spencer – MP for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich
33. Lord Morse – of Aldburgh
34. Olivia Blake – MP for Sheffield Hallam
35. Lord Mott – of Chatteris
36. Gareth Snell – MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central
37. Chris Hinchliff – MP for North East Hertfordshire
38. Connor Rand – MP for Altrincham and Sale West
39. Tom Gordon – MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough
40. Lorraine Beavers – MP for Blackpool North and Fleetwood
41. Claire Hanna – MP for Belfast South and Mid Down
42. Katrina Murray – MP for Cumbernauld & Kirkintilloch
43. Danny Beales – MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip
44. Tracy Gilbert – MP for Edinburgh North and Leith
45. Catherine Atkinson – MP for Derby North
46. Pam Cox – MP for Colchester
47. Kerry McCarthy – MP for Bristol East, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
48. Ed Davey – MP for Kingston and Surbiton, Leader of Lib Dems
49. Rebecca Smith – MP for South West Devon
50. Jonathan Ashworth – Former Shadow Secretary of State for Work and Pensions
51. Rosie Wrighting – MP for Kettering
52. Mike Tapp – MP for Dover and Deal
53. Rachel Taylor – MP for North Warwickshire and Bedworth
54. Gregor Poynton – MP for Livingston
55. Cat Eccles – MP for Stourbridge
56. Carla Denyer – MP for Bristol Central
57. Rachel Gilmour – MP for Tiverton and Minehead
58. Ed Chidley (representing Pippa Heylings, MP for South Cambridgeshire)
59. Esther McVey – MP for Tatton
60. Neil O’Brien – MP for Harborough, Oadby and Wigston
61. Aphra Brandreth – MP for Chester South and Eddisbury
62. Kay Davies – House of Commons Events Team
63. Lee Holt – House of Commons Events Team
64. Lord Bird
65. Lady Baroness Rosie Winterton
66. Sir Christopher Chope – MP for Christchurch
67. Josh Babarinde – MP for Eastbourne, Liberal Democrat
68. Vikki Slade – MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, Liberal Democrat
69. Richard Quigley – MP for Isle of Wight West

The event, hosted by Shaun Davies, Member of Parliament for Telford, and Chair of the APPG, will be a private dinner held in the House of Commons on Tuesday 6th May 2025.

Invited guests will include Parliamentary members of the APPG, along with the recently registered Group and Corporate members, alongside senior leaders from across the UK events sector.

The APPG is also actively involved in supporting the upcoming 2025 Global Policy Forum, organised by The Business of Events, with Shaun Davies providing an update at the forum and several Members of Parliament also scheduled to attend.

The APPG, which has been operating since 2011, is the UK event industry’s voice in Westminster, and is working to increase the value and profile of the sector with Members of Parliament, Government Ministers and Policymakers within Parliament and across Whitehall.

The APPG is managed by industry Think Tank, The Business of Events, who also act as special advisors to the group.

More information on the work of the APPG can be found on their official website www.appgevents.com

Throughout the event, the overarching theme of “Positive Evolution” resonated deeply with all participants. From keynote speeches by influential thought leaders to interactive workshops and networking opportunities, the conference fostered a unique environment for personal and professional development.

Throughout the planning for this year’s conference, the team at Burleigh Court worked with the VOE team to bring together an inspiring conference.  Emma Chamberlain, Commercial Director, Imago Venues on being hosts to the conference said: “Hosting this year’s Venues of Excellence Positive Evolution Conference at Burleigh Court was an absolute pleasure for me and the entire Imago Venues team. It was fantastic to welcome industry colleagues to our venue, giving them the chance to experience firsthand the service, hospitality, and facilities we’re so proud of. What made this event even more special was the opportunity to showcase some of the exciting changes we’ve made at Burleigh Court. Introducing our brand-new restaurant, Fifty the Street, our beautifully refurbished bar, Carney & Scotts, and our brand-new conference suite to such a great audience was a real highlight. Seeing delegates enjoying these spaces and hearing their positive feedback was incredibly rewarding. The energy and enthusiasm throughout the conference were inspiring, and I’m so proud of our team for delivering a seamless experience. We’ve always valued our strong partnership with Venues of Excellence, and hosting this event reinforced just how important it is to collaborate and share best practices in our industry. We look forward to many more opportunities to work together and continue driving excellence in hospitality and events.”

Mandy Jennings, CEO for Venues of Excellence welcomed the delegates to conference and shared the incredible year it has been for the consortium with their high energy sales and marketing initiatives, highlighted key successes around their member quality assessments being finalised at all member venues, their 2025 January “Customer excellence programmes” at two Center Parcs resorts introduced for all venues to attend, plus the continued support from their membership and how exciting it was to welcome Drayton Manor Resort into the VOE family as their latest member.  Handing over to Chair of the Advisory Group, Stewart Elsmore, he outlined how the economy has placed some pressure on businesses and emphasised the resilience of the hospitality industry has been nothing short of extraordinary.  Before handing over to the conference moderator, Stewart encouraged delegates to “stay on a 10” and take the time to gather those special golden nuggets of wisdom, relax, and enjoy meaningful conversations with exhibitors, colleagues and friends, and step away from the daily challenges and recharge.

With a stellar line up of world class speakers, delegates gained unique insights across a range of topics; Innovation for Growth, Marketing Trends, Evolve to Thrive, Winning Mentality and Customer Excellence ahead of the motivational speaker Alison Edgar MBE sharing her insightful career journey through Hospitality and pushing through the barriers to get to the top of her game and cultivate a growth mindset.  Delegates chose one of three breakout sessions; Selling 7 Days a Week, HR Legal Updates and Burleigh Court delivered an insightful Plant Forward workshop highlighting how they have embraced food sustainability through their menus and cocktail list.

Between sessions, delegates had the opportunity to network with 22 exhibitors across a range of products and services that support the hospitality sector, many of whom are members of the consortiums Preferred Partner Programme including the conference key sponsor Proposal 360 / View It 360 who are Premium Partners to Venues of Excellence.  Noel Sexton shared his remarkable journey as a supplier with VOE, and how the partnership has been integral to the growth of his business and building excellent partnerships with the member venues and VOE team.

When the conference programme came to a close, delegates enjoyed an innovative conference dinner, creatively set with a Vivaldi “Four Seasons” musical backdrop reflecting the seasons through imaginative dishes.  Norman Meyer, Head of Conference and Events at Rhodes Trust shared his thought on the day: “As a delegate at the VOE Annual Conference, I had the opportunity to explore ways to encourage positive evolution. The event featured inspiring speakers who shared valuable insights, providing an excellent platform for networking and exchanging ideas. It also provided an opportunity to engage with a number of excellent exhibitors at the event. Overall, it was a fantastic experience that concluded with a delicious dinner, offering our team a unique opportunity to learn and engage together.”

Afterwards, VOE presented two awards from our evening sponsors Oyster Recruitment and Venue Directory; the Referral Team of the Year was awarded to Wyboston Lakes Resort and the Venues of Excellence Sales and Marketing Ambassador Award was presented to Vikki Webb from Millennium Point.  During the evening, guests were encouraged to support Imago Venues and this years nominated conference charity, Rainbows Hospice, with £1,594 being raised and presented to Gary Farnfield, Community Fundraising Manager who attended the event.

Talking to delegates post conference, this year’s conference theme has been heralded a great success.  Mark Field FIH, General Manager at Victory Services Club said: “Positive Evolution was the overarching theme for the VOE Conference 2025. Created by the leading force in venue excellence, the VOE team out did themselves this year. The conference empowered delegates to take a ‘positive approach to change’ managing their venues, identifying what works best and capitalising on it to ensure the best customer experience possible. Throughout the conference we were challenged and encouraged to evolve the essence of our business, ensuring we focused on the consumer and keeping things simple for greater outcomes true to our roots and overall goals while not overcomplicating things for unnecessary reasons. It questioned what is at the heart of what we do, what makes our Venue unique and how can we capitalise on it. Fantastic speakers and networking, supported by the wonderful team at Imago Venues.”

Silvia Parnaby, Sales Manager from Weston Park said: “I really enjoyed attending the Venues of Excellence Annual Conference “Positive Evolution”, it provided an excellent opportunity for meaningful discussion, networking and knowledge exchange.  The agenda of the day provided just the right balance to keep us engaged through listening to guest speakers, participating in a diverse range of workshops and allowing time to see the various suppliers on their stands. I found the guests speakers to be engaging, and the opportunity to connect with fellow colleagues from other venues was invaluable.”

Reflecting on the 2025 Conference, and receiving feedback from delegates, speakers and exhibitors Mandy commented: “As we look back on this year’s Venues of Excellence Annual Conference, I am truly inspired by the positive feedback we’ve received from delegates, speakers, and exhibitors alike. It’s clear that the conference provided a platform for valuable discussions, fresh perspectives, and meaningful connections. The energy and enthusiasm were palpable, and it’s heartening to see that the ‘Positive Evolution’ theme really resonated across all aspects of the event. It’s been wonderful to hear that attendees left with practical knowledge, new opportunities, and an invigorated sense of purpose. I’m especially grateful for the engaged participation of our exhibitors, who showcased innovative solutions that will undoubtedly shape the future of the industry.  Moving forward, we’re excited to continue building on this momentum, as we listen to all the feedback and work to make each year even better. The ongoing evolution of our VOE community and the incredible vibe we all share is what makes these conferences so special.”

Join The Power of Events online on Thursday 13^th February at 11.00am on its Linkedin channel for one hour, to hear contributions from over 20 industry leaders from across the sectors, including many supporters and partners and the core team.

The broadcast will focus on showcasing what the UK Event Industry has achieved to date through inclusive collaboration including the latest updates and exciting plans for the Schools Engagement Programme, the Events Industry Insight App and what’s next for The Power of Events.

It will conclude with an Interactive Q&A Session with the online audience posing questions answered in real-time by The Power of Events team.

Founder Rick Stainton commented, “This is for all The Power of Events supporters, partners and anyone passionate about the UK Events Industry! It is aimed at thanking the UK Events Industry and showcasing what their support, unselfish commitment and collaborative values can achieve when we all collectively work together on a project – things can be actioned, impact delivered and changes in behaviour and understanding are real and measurable.”

Be sure to follow The Power of Events on LinkedIn so you don’t miss it!

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Drawing from his extensive interactions with agency owners, managing directors, c-suite stakeholders, and senior leaders, Robert offers unparalleled insider insight into the evolving priorities and strategies within the industry.

This quarter, Robert has identified several key trends and forecasts for the future:

Q4 Trends

Trend 1: Recruitment Moves Back In-House – Unless It’s Specialist

Many organisations, particularly large multinationals, are moving recruitment back in-house – which is great for the wider recruitment and TA industry as many independent recruiters have not survived and closed their doors.  Kenward sees this as a shift away from generalist external recruiters towards more specialist, niche agencies. “In-house recruitment is on the rise, so the external recruiters who will thrive are those who specialise and add value. Just filling a role is the bare minimum you should expect from a recruiter and will simply not cut it anymore. A recruiter needs to work consultatively, add real value to the entire process and be a benefit to the employer not a cost.”

Trend 2: Targeted EDI seems to be falling away

Unfortunately, we’ve seen many big companies drop their targeted EDI policies, and this has trickled into the events sector. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards are now the focus because paying brands/clients are looking for tangible proof of ESG credentials to get onto their PSLs and win business. Kenward notes. “Without things like B Corp certification, you’re unlikely to be considered for the preferred supplier lists of major organisations. ESG has become the non-negotiable benchmark, whereas corporates and brands aren’t really too bothered about checking EDI policies now if you say you have one.”

Trend 3: One and Done – The New Norm

As Labour’s new Employment rights bill come into effect, the hiring process has to become more streamlined, with employers undertaking more due diligence before they meet face to face than ever before. Kenward believes that a single formal interview, combined with in-depth due diligence and a chemistry meeting, will become the standard approach for employers. “The formal interview process needs to be much more efficient,” Kenward asserts. “One well-prepared interview should suffice. Anything else is just fluff. It’s crucial that businesses do their homework upfront, as poor hiring decisions now come with legal risks and can damage reputations.”

2025 Forecasts

Forecast 1: The company dog just won’t cut it anymore

Employers will need to differentiate themselves to attract senior talent. The ability to clearly articulate a company’s unique selling points (USPs) will be vital in convincing candidates to make a move. “At the senior level, it’s no longer enough to talk about a rise in salary, company culture or perceived perks like an office dog,” Kenward explains. “Candidates are looking for a deeper connection to the company’s values and mission. If you can’t explain why someone should leave their current role for yours, you’re going to struggle to attract the talent you need.”

Forecast 2: Companies will Experiment with a Four-Day Week to Attract the right Talent

To stand out in a competitive job market, companies are increasingly experimenting with four-day working weeks to attract and retain people to enhance their business. A well-structured four-day week offers a genuine rethinking of how work is done, however, its success depends on careful planning. Businesses must focus on output rather than hours worked, reevaluate job roles, and establish clear communication protocols to ensure productivity doesn’t suffer on the ‘day off’. “The four-day week isn’t about simply cutting hours; it’s about working smarter, not harder,” Kenward explains. “Employers need to ask, ‘Why is this taking five days, and how can it be done in four?’ It’s about delivering results, not just being present. If implemented well—with clear expectations and agreed communication levels to deal with emergencies on the day off—it could genuinely set businesses apart as employers of choice.”

Forecast 3: AI Will Continue to Transform Hiring Processes

Kenward predicts that AI will play an even more significant role in recruitment in 2025, particularly in automating candidate screening and job description creation. With ATS and AI systems becoming smarter, the use of AI software for the initial stages of recruitment will be standard practice. “AI will continue to streamline recruitment processes, but it’s important to remember that it’s not a substitute for human expertise,” Kenward advises. “AI can make recruitment more efficient, but recruiters still need to add value through personal insights and industry expertise.”

These trends and forecasts highlight key areas that recruitment professionals and businesses must pay attention to as we approach 2025. Companies must adapt to stay competitive. For more insights from Robert Kenward on navigating these changes, subscribe to his newsletter for the latest updates and trends shaping the industry: Recruitment Report

The next quarterly recruitment report will be published in April 2025.

The private network encourages event production companies to meet in person and to talk openly and respectfully to assist in creating better industry standards.

The first EPN meeting was held at Event Buyers Live in November and was attended by nine event production companies – We Group, Proud Events, The Zoo, Slammin Events, Heartwood Events, Eye of the Storm Events, Go For, We Organise Chaos and Sound Channel UK/New Citizens – which are now founding members.

Clare Goodchild, project director at We Organise Chaos, said: “The EPN meeting in November allowed like-minded production companies to come together and discuss our challenges, our predictions for the coming year, and our current experiences of the event climate. As busy event professionals, the opportunities to sit down with one another in a supportive and collaborative space do not happen very often, so this was an unmissable chance for us to learn, grow, and examine how we can make things better for the industry, focusing on collaboration and not competition.”

Event production companies wishing to join EPN can not only meet face-to-face four times a year, but they can also liaise via a private LinkedIn group.

What’s essential to the network’s success is that everyone communicates confidentially and regularly, values each other’s input and recognises EPN as a valuable resource where everyone can discuss key matters – including challenges, budgets and rates – that massively impact live event delivery and management.

Ben Whur, co-founder of Proud Events and another founding member of EPN, said: “I co-founded Proud Events ten years ago and have seen how the live events industry has changed. To be able to discuss these changes and how we react as an industry is priceless, so when the idea for EPN came about, being involved was a no-brainer.

“To echo Clare’s words, the key to EPN is collaboration, not competition. We don’t want people to think they are sharing their trade secrets or USPs with the ‘competition’. EPN is more than that. It’s an opportunity to raise standards, share insight and experiences – good and bad – and collectively support one another.”

Neil Fagg, managing director of StandOut Multimedia, concurred. He said: “How many times a day do you hear people talking about how communication and collaboration are key in business today? But how many people walk the talk?

“I believe the event production companies who serve so many live events are the instrumental link between promoter and supply chain, yet do not get the headlines or airtime they deserve and need. Hence, why I thought EPN was needed after gathering feedback from industry. It’s an inclusive group where everyone is equal. It’s a level playing field where everyone’s opinions are respected and valid, and I believe it’s an opportunity for everyone to talk with honesty and integrity. The chance to sit with your perceived competition and have a proper conversation is scarce, so I hope people recognise the power of sharing information to create a stronger sector.”

The next private EPN meeting will be held at the AIF’s Festival Congress on February 5.

•If you’d like to understand the group further or have any suggestions or input, please emailneil@standoutmagazine.co.uk, call 01795 509113 or request to join the LinkedIn group.