Role & Company: CEO, Meetings Industry Associaiton

With nearly 30 years in the events industry, I’ve worked on major events (such as the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and Political Party Conferences), served as Head of Events at the British Heart Foundation and lectured in Events and Tourism for over a decade. I also mentor on the FastForward15 program and sit on the board of the industry charity, Meeting Needs. I’m passionate about the transformative power of events, guided by a leadership philosophy of honesty, authenticity, and collaboration. I look forward to being CEO of the Meetings Industry Association, starting in late November.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

I’m looking for an events agency that prioritizes a people-first approach, both internally and in client interactions, with a strong drive for excellence and innovation. The ideal agency demonstrates a commitment to creating memorable experiences through integrity, collaboration, and creativity.

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?

Agencies should consider entering industry awards to showcase excellence and help elevate standards across the sector. Recognition via the awards and from their peers not only validates their hard work but also inspires innovation and growth within the wider industry.

Role & Company: Events Manager, The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity

I have been working in the events industry for fifteen years, working in both Corporate and Charity sectors. On a personal level i sing in a choir, love going to the theatre and concerts and have an Etsy shop where i sell chunky knit scarves hand knitted by me!

What are you looking for in a winning agency?

Reliability, inspiration, professionalism, friendliness and goo communication.

Why should agencies enter the CN Agency Awards?

What an opportunity to showcase the brilliance of your agency and team.

Are you looking forward to joining the panel?

Yes! I was honoured to be asked to join the panel, I 'm hoping that the experience and knowledge of the events world I have, will bring insight and a fair opinion whilst looking at all category entries.

Role & Company: Head of Events, NASUWT - The Teachers' Union

Sammy Connell is an award winning events professional who heads up the Conference and Events Team at NASUWT - The Teachers’ Union, who have 270,000 members and over 60 events annually. Sammy has been an in-house professional conference organiser within the events and exhibition industry for 18+ years.

Sammy is the Co-Chair of ABPCO (Association of British Professional Conference Organisers), a Fast Forward 15 Mentor, Greengage Sustainability Champion and a Power50 Green Champion. Sammy has a Master’s degree in Events and Exhibitions Management from BCU and is an Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) practitioner, a keynote lecturer for events and exhibition undergraduate and postgraduate courses and has won multiple prestigious awards for her outstanding work in the events sector.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

A winning agency in the UK events industry embodies creativity, precision, and a deep commitment to client needs while fostering a healthy, supportive work environment for their team. They bring innovative ideas to life, ensuring that every detail, from logistics to attendee experience, this needs to align flawlessly with the event's goals.

By adopting a client focused approach, they listen closely to their clients' vision, brand values, and objectives, delivering tailored solutions that resonate with the audience. Clear, consistent communication is their trade mark, maintaining transparency and keeping clients informed at every stage is key.

I'll be looking for a proven track record of successful events, an ideal agency showcases both experience and adaptability, backed by client testimonials and a portfolio that speaks to their reliability and expertise.

Whilst there are many agents out there, I'll be looking out for the agency who prioritises their team’s wellbeing, creating a work culture that prevents burnout by encouraging a balanced workload, providing mental health support, and fostering a collaborative, positive environment where staff feel valued and energized.

Additionally, they demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, integrating eco-friendly practices to create events that are both impactful and responsible.

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?

Entering the CN Agency Awards, can be particularly valuable for agencies working across diverse sectors, such as association events, corporate gatherings, and public sector engagements. Awards offer a unique opportunity for agencies to showcase their versatility and ability to deliver tailored solutions across different event types, each with its unique demands and objectives. By entering, agencies can highlight how they’ve successfully adapted to and excelled in these varied sectors, standing out as experts who understand the nuances of association events, for instance, which often require specific regulatory knowledge and a focus on member engagement. Winning or being recognised in an award category demonstrates an agency’s capacity to navigate and thrive within different event environments, proving they can deliver consistently exceptional results.

Have you worked with / for agencies before?

Yes in the capacity of ABPCO executive board member and co-chair and in my role at NASUWT working with agencies to deliver elements of our Annual Conference.

Role & Company:  Events Manager, CIPP

Sarah is a skilled event manager with over 10 years of experience at the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals (CIPP), where she has been a key member of the events team. For the past 4 years, Sarah has successfully managed CIPP’s largest conferences and award ceremonies, setting new benchmarks for scale and impact within the organisation.

Holding a BA (Hons) degree in Events Management, Sarah combines academic expertise with hands-on experience, bringing a strategic approach to event planning and execution. Her knowledge of event logistics, attention to detail, and creative problem-solving have been instrumental in delivering high-quality, memorable experiences for attendees and stakeholders alike.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

Customer service
Stakeholder relationships
Range of venue options

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?

I think it is important for agencies to be recognised for the work they do.

Role & Company: Senior Events Manager, R3 - Association of Business Recovery Professionals

I've been working in events for over 9 years and love it as much as I did when I first started. I'm currently at R3, a member organisation. I lead a team to run national events as well as supporting our members around the UK to run region specific events.

What are you looking for in a winning agency?

To me a winning agency is one that both challenges and inspires the clients they work with. They bring their own expertise to enhance the organisation they're working with but are also really good listeners. Advances in technology can do so much for events that it will be great to see how it's been used with the different agencies. Event Teams are focusing on being more sustainable so I'll be looking at how agencies are bringing sustainable elements into their work without compromising on the overall experience.

Have you worked with / for agencies before?

I've worked with various agencies before, as a small team supporting on over 70 events a year it's vital!

Why should agencies enter the CNAA's?

Being a finalist, or winner of the awards is a fantastic way to celebrate all the hard work an agency does. It's also a great way to showcase yourselves to the profession.

Are you looking forward to joining the panel?

I'm really looking forward to joining the panel, I can't wait to discover the best of the best in our industry and celebrate a lot of hard work.

Role & Company: Events Director, World Travel & Tourism Council

I'm Events Director at the World Travel & Tourism Council, a membership body representing the global private sector in Travel and Tourism. I am experienced in working in fast-paced and dynamic environments leading high-performing teams to plan and deliver complex global events.

I have over 20 years' events experience across a range of sectors. My events portfolio includes strategic engagement events, conferences and exhibitions, gala dinners, networking receptions, collaborative events with sponsors and partners, award ceremonies, fundraising events, webinars and online events. I love building teams and collaborating with stakeholders to deliver impactful events.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

I am looking for agencies who understand a client's brief and deliver against it in a creative way while keeping to budget with a flexible, solutions-focused approach.

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?

Agencies should enter the CN Agency Awards to showcase their work, highlight success and increase brand recognition.

Role & Company: Alumni Engagement Manager, University of Leicester

Kelly is currently an Events and Engagement Manager for the University of Leicester and has worked on events for a number of Corporate Institutions in the past decade focusing mainly on Higher Education and has a vast portfolio of managing annual conferences, dinners, receptions, award ceremonies and meetings for a range of delegates from free ticketed events to high profile individuals. A highlight was managing the programme for the University of Leicester’s 100th Birthday Celebrations in 2022 which saw around 70 events across the year celebrating the institutions heritage and community. In 2022 Kelly launched The Events Psychologist; providing research bites to the Events Industry in terms of applicable psychology to events management practises.

In 2019, Kelly won the East Midlands Women’s Award (EMWA) Outstanding Woman in Arts, Media, and Music. In 2024, Kelly spoke and ran a panel on event psychology and wellbeing at International Confex, Britain's Largest Events Conference and has been nominated for a Niche Award, Alternative Business Award and as Outstanding Woman in Hospitality at the Women’s Awards.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

An agency that is creative and innovative, while also being smart and flexible when necessary. An agency that has strong values, a clear vision, good ethics, and honesty.

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?

Joining industry awards is about more than just submitting an entry. It's a chance to reconnect with your field, your contacts, and even meet new people. It allows you to celebrate the great work you've done and also to think about the future, bringing in new clients, talents, and opportunities

Role & Company: Head of Event Operations, IGD

With 25+ years in the events industry, I am passionate about creating experiences that connect, inspire and achieve business goals. As Head of Event Operations at IGD, I lead a team delivering conferences, trade briefings, webinars and leadership engagement events, providing both strategic leadership with team management. My background includes time at Barclays, London Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Help the Aged managing events and relationships across the finance industry, not for profit and charity sector. I believe great events shape perception, build trust, and empower the audience.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

I’m looking for agencies that truly stand out, those who bring fresh, innovative ideas and aren’t afraid to push boundaries. It’s not just about meeting the brief, but going above and beyond to deliver something memorable and impactful. Ultimately, I want to see creativity paired with reliability, and a real commitment to making every project the best it can possibly be.

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?:

It's a chance for them to showcase their best work, gain recognition from peers and boost credibility. By entering it also allows teams to reflect and celebrate achievements, a moment to pause which is always hard to do in events

Role & Company: Head of Awards & Events, Make UK

Amy Dowse has worked within the events industry for 17 years, leading the planning and delivery of conferences, graduation ceremonies, awards dinners, and everything in between. With extensive experience across a range of organisations, Amy thrives on heading up teams to achieve company goals and deliver seamless, high-quality events. Passionate about creating meaningful experiences, she takes pride in ensuring every event benefits attendees and reflects organisational excellence.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

I’m looking for agencies that have grown through experience and stayed true to their values along the way. They have a clear sense of direction and aren’t afraid to think ahead or challenge the norm with bold, creative ideas that make an impact. Things run smoothly behind the scenes because they’re built on smart, efficient ways of working. They genuinely care about doing the right thing - whether that’s through sustainability, diversity, or inclusion - and they don’t just talk about their values but live them every day. Most importantly, they’re built around their people, with a strong culture that supports their wellbeing, growth, and success.

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?

For recognition, to give their employees a boost, and to show their clients what award-winning projects look like.

Role & Company: Senior Events Manager, French Chamber of Great Britain

Innovative Project Manager with proven ability to create and develop profitable programmes through communications and partnerships.

Distinguished professional accomplished in increasing organisational productivity and discovering cost-saving solutions to operational problems.

High-profile Executive with a diversified experience combined with in-depth knowledge of events' life cycles (virtual and in-person).

Industries I am building bridges with as a communications professional? interior design, architecture, upcycling, membership bodies, digital mix.

Things I am happy to discuss about? events are made by people for people - digital can be more than an innovative way to create people interaction - sustainability is part of any event scheme.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

A winning agency demonstrates a clear understanding of client goals, backed by strategic insight, creative excellence, and flawless execution. In my opinion, the best agencies pair innovation with consistency—fresh ideas.

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?

There are various aspects
Industry -- Industry awards are a benchmark of excellence, offering agencies the opportunity to showcase their innovation and stand out in a competitive market.
Team and culture -- Entering awards motivates teams, celebrates their creativity, and reinforces a culture of excellence and pride.
Outcome -- Winning—or even being shortlisted—demonstrates measurable success and strategic impact, which strengthens client confidence and agency reputation.
Inspiration -- An opportunity to celebrate not just work, but ideas, impact, and the vision that drives an agency forward.

Role & Company: UK & International Events Manager, Sedgwick

With over 16 years in the events industry, Sara Thompson brings extensive expertise in planning and delivering a wide range of events across the UK and internationally. Her portfolio spans corporate, client-facing, and colleague-focused experiences, showcasing her versatility and commitment to excellence in every detail.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

I will be looking for agencies that demonstrate genuine innovation, strategic thinking, and measurable impact. I value creativity that’s backed by results, whether the agency is a boutique team or a global player. I’m particularly drawn to entries that show clear purpose, adaptability, and a strong connection to their audience by using bold ideas and delivering meaningful outcomes.

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?

Entering industry awards like the CN Agency Awards offers agencies valuable recognition, boosts team morale, and enhances credibility with clients. It’s a powerful way to showcase innovation, benchmark against peers, and gain visibility in a competitive market whilst also opening doors to new business and networking opportunities.

Role & Company: Assistant Director - Major Events and Sponsorship, EY

I am Anna Robinson, an accomplished event manager with over 20 years of diverse experience in the industry. Currently, I work as an Assistant Director at EY, where I lead the management and delivery of complex, high-profile events, including large-scale conferences and client arts events. I have managed corporate events all around the world, in all shapes and sizes enjoying collaborating with many people and organisations. My extensive background in event strategy, logistics, and stakeholder relations has equipped me to thrive in fast-paced environments and deliver exceptional results. Long may it continue!

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

Focus on sustainability, DE&I, innovation, proven results, ability to adapt and pivot, ethics

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?

Recognition and Credibility: Winning or even being nominated for an award enhances an agency's reputation. It serves as a mark of excellence and credibility in the industry, which can attract new clients and talent.

Differentiation: In a competitive market, awards can help an agency stand out. They highlight unique strengths and achievements, making it easier for potential clients to choose them over competitors.

Networking Opportunities: Award ceremonies often provide excellent networking opportunities. Agencies can connect with industry leaders, potential clients, and other professionals, fostering relationships that can lead to new business opportunities.

Motivation and Morale: Participating in awards can boost team morale. It encourages employees to strive for excellence and fosters a sense of pride in their work when they see their efforts recognized.

Marketing and PR Benefits: Awards can be leveraged in marketing and public relations efforts. Winning an award can generate media coverage, social media buzz, and content for marketing campaigns, enhancing visibility.

Benchmarking Success: The awards process often involves a rigorous evaluation of an agency's work against industry standards. This can provide valuable feedback and insights into areas for improvement.

Client Trust: Clients often look for proven success when choosing an agency. Awards can serve as a third-party endorsement, reassuring clients of the agency's capabilities and track record.

Long-term Growth: The pursuit of excellence that comes with entering awards can lead to improved processes, innovative solutions, and ultimately, long-term growth for the agency.

Role & Company: Events Senior Manager, Dassault Systemes

A multilingual Events Manager with over 20 years of experience delivering impactful events across a wide range of industries. Skilled in managing everything from intimate dinners and team-building activities to large-scale conferences and exhibitions.

Responsible for designing and executing events that form a key part of global marketing strategies—driving attendance, generating new leads, and supporting business growth. Passionate about making events as sustainable as possible while communicating themes of sustainable innovation and virtual twin technology.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

When choosing a winning events agency, I look for a partner that is genuinely committed to sustainability and integrates this mindset into every aspect of event planning and delivery. Attention to detail is critical—ensuring that every element of the event experience aligns seamlessly with objectives and brand values.

Strong communication and quick response times are also essential, as they build trust and keep collaboration efficient and transparent. I value agencies that bring innovative and creative ideas to the table, yet still respect budget parameters and work resourcefully to achieve impact without unnecessary excess.

Equally important is finding an agency that truly feels like an extension of our own team—sharing our goals, values, and commitment to excellence. I look for a team that consistently thinks sustainably—from materials and suppliers to travel and waste management—and provides detailed post-event reporting to measure success, ROI, and opportunities for continuous improvement.

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?

With so many agencies out there, entering industry awards helps to differentiate them from the rest.

Role & Company: Commercial Events Manager, The Food and Drink Federation

An Events Producer professional with over 15 years experience, with additional experience of Operations, Marketing, and Internal Corporate Communications within these sectors - food & beverage, fashion, luxury, accessories and beauty.

For over 8 years Felipe has project managed the events programme for The Food and Drink Federation, ensuring the quality delivery of an exciting programme that reflects the current trends of the food and drink manufacturing sector.

Felipe returns as a judge for a second year.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

A winning agency knows how to get the job done by taking the client brief and successfully delivering on all counts.

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?

It is a must to enter the CN Agency Awards as it allows agencies to be recognised by industry experts

Role & Company: Event Specialist, Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)

Adele has over 15 years experience within the hospitality and events sector. Her current role is the interim Event Manager for the EMEA team of event specialists within RICS, heading up the team who organise conferences, awards and webinars for the organisation's members and non-members. In previous roles Adele has worked for higher education membership organisations, as well as Motorola Solutions EMEA, and prior to that has first hand hospitality experience. Her main passion is managing corporate conferences to ensure delegates have memorable and meaningful experiences, using new trends and technology to aid their learning and development

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

For me, an agency should be the experts in all venues and current trends. Offering advice on how to amplify an event within a given budget and what will and won't work, and setting the tone for future proofing events in a sustainability and accessibility stand point. A "must" quality is also to remember what is the most important thing for me as a client and stay focused on the brief.

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?

I believe agencies shouldn't always boast about the most lavish, high end, "wow" events in order to show what they can do, as the bread and butter of conferences for me are day long events focusing on CPD. To have an agency showcasing their talents within their account management, customer service, sustainability championing etc is much more beneficial to me as a customer.

Role & Company: Global Head of Event Operations - Marketing, Wood Mackenzie

Zoe is a senior events professional with over 20 year experience across corporate, brands, agency and the public sector. Before joining Wood Mackenzie in 2024 she freelanced for almost ten years delivering events for clients including LinkedIn, meta, Barclays, UK Gov, HP and many more

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

Agencies that bring the creativity and really make you feel a connection make me excited

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?

Agencies big and small are out their doing incredible work that deserves to be seen and celebrated. The CN Agency awards is the perfect platform is the perfect platform to shout about it

Role & Company: Head of Global Event Operations, techoraco

Gemma is a seasoned global events professional with a genuine passion for creating immersive, meaningful experiences that bring people together.

With expertise in strategic planning and stakeholder engagement, she partners with senior leaders to shape event positioning and long-term goals, while also overseeing on-the-ground coordination to ensure flawless delivery.

An advocate for operational excellence, Gemma is recognized for building strong, collaborative teams and implementing smart workflows that drive efficiency and elevate the quality of every event. Her approach seamlessly blends big-picture vision with meticulous execution.

Throughout her career, she has spearheaded high-profile flagship events that not only delivered exceptional results but also earned industry recognition - including Global Conference Network’s Best Conference (2015, 2017 & 2018), the Digital Event Awards in 2020, and most recently, Best Overseas Conference > 500 in 2024.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

Examples of creativity, going above and beyond the brief. Championing innovation cost effectively but with maximum impact!

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?

One of the most valuable and irreplaceable aspects of successful events is the strength of our supplier and vendor partnerships. These relationships are the backbone of exceptional event execution, vendors are not just service providers they are creative collaborators and vital extensions of our delivery teams. They help transform ideas into reality, elevate experiences, and ultimately bring our collective vision to life. By submitting an entry for these awards, we celebrate and acknowledge the indispensable role our suppliers play. It’s a meaningful way to recognize their contributions, deepen our partnerships, and inspire continued excellence within our community.

Role & Company: Events & Sponsorships Manager, Santander

Emily is an accomplished and award-winning corporate events manager who is brilliant at designing and delivering experiences that drive engagement, brand awareness and share strategic storytelling. From town halls to awards ceremonies, broadcasts to incentive trips, Emily ADORES the world of event management and her experience at BT, EE and Santander has given her the knowledge and know-how to get complex stuff done easily.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

I love working with agencies who are embracing the ever-changing world of events and technology and how this can enhance the experiences we're creating. Creativity is obviously high on the list - giving new and fresh thinking every time, and an agency that is trustworthy, brilliant at communication, and uber keen to get to know our employees and our customers inside out.

Why should agencies consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards?

Every client would want an award-winning campaign for brand kudos. I believe that an agency that enters industry awards must be an agency that highly believes in its own work and successes.