Company & Role: ABPCO, Association Director

Heather Lishman is the Association Director of The Association of British Professional Conference Organisers (ABPCO) which is a dedicated industry association bringing the association events community together to promote and encourage excellence, share, learn and collaborate.  ABPCO membership is open to professional conference organisers, suppliers, associates and destinations who clearly demonstrate the skills, knowledge and experience required to plan and organise major UK and international conferences.

How many events do you organise annually?

12+

What types of events do you typically organise?

Roundtable discussions, a Festival of Learning and Excellence Awards

Do you/have you worked with an event agency previously?

Yes!

What are you looking for from an award-winning agency?

Creativity, communication and enthusiasm to drive events forward.

Company & Role: Advent International, Events Manager

Becky Osborn joined Advent International, a global private equity investor, in 2015. She currently heads up events in Europe and Asia, and has vast experience in delivering a variety of B2B events.

What are you looking for in a winning agency?

I am looking for innovative ideas, creative solutions and agencies that are forward thinking. I want to be left feeling inspired!

Have you worked with / for agencies before?

I have not worked for an agency before but have worked with multiple agencies including event management agencies, event tech providers, DMCs, venue finders, etc

Why should agencies enter the CN Agency Awards?

It's an amazing opportunity for agencies to be recognised for their innovation, excellence and creativity in delivering impressive and prolific events and solutions.

Are you looking forward to joining the panel?

I am incredibly excited to join the panel, working with Conference News and other esteemed event professionals to award the industries best agencies. I'm looking forward to potentially learning of new agencies and seeing what best-in-class services are being provided.

Company & Role: Societe Generale, Events Manager

Freddie is an award-winning events manager who joined Societe Generale in June 2023 to help organise their ever-expanding internal and external events calendar, as well as to drive their presence on industry events across the UK. He has previously organised events across the fintech, tech and energy industry across the previous seven years, ranging from small European roundtables, gala dinners to large two-day 1,200 person conferences. In 2021, he was named as one of Conference News’s 30underThirty in the events industry.

He has a degree in Event Management from Southampton Solent University.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

I am looking for a winning agency to show innovation in their offering to clients and to be able to think what the client needs, without the client even knowing. The agency should show that they have their finger on the pulse in terms of new venues, new suppliers and new trends across the events industry.

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

When looking for event agencies in the past, I have looked at their credentials before contacting them with my initial query. Those credentials usually mean customer reviews, but more importantly, industry recognition in the form of awards.

Have you worked with / for agencies before?

Yes, I have used agencies in every event management role I have held. They are pivotal in being able to offer insight into venues etc

Company & Role: Eversheds Sutherland, Marketing & Business Development Manager

With a diverse career spanning over 20 years in marketing, events, and business development, I have honed a unique blend of skills and experiences that drive impactful results. My journey has been fueled by a deep passion for people and events, allowing me to create memorable experiences and foster meaningful connections.

Throughout my career, I have successfully led numerous high-profile projects, from innovative marketing campaigns to large-scale events, always with a focus on exceeding client expectations and achieving strategic goals. My expertise lies in crafting compelling narratives, building strong relationships, and leveraging data-driven insights to inform decision-making.

I thrive in dynamic environments where creativity and collaboration are key, and I am dedicated to continuous learning and growth. My commitment to excellence and my ability to adapt to changing landscapes have been the cornerstones of my professional journey.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

When evaluating a winning agency, several key qualities stand out:

Integrity!

Expertise and Experience: A strong track record in the industry with proven success in similar projects.

Creativity and Innovation: The ability to think outside the box and offer unique solutions.

Communication Skills: Clear, transparent, and proactive communication to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Client-Centric Approach: A focus on understanding and meeting the client’s needs and goals.

Reliability and Accountability: Consistently delivering on promises and taking responsibility for outcomes.

Adaptability: The ability to adjust strategies based on feedback and changing circumstances.

Strong Team Dynamics: A cohesive team with complementary skills and a collaborative spirit.

Data-Driven Decision Making: Using analytics and insights to guide strategies and measure success.

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

Entering industry awards like the CN Agency Awards can offer numerous benefits for agencies:

Recognition and Credibility: Winning or even being shortlisted can enhance an agency’s reputation and credibility within the industry.

Marketing and PR Opportunities: Awards provide excellent content for marketing and PR, helping to attract new clients and talent.

Benchmarking: The process of preparing an award entry can help agencies assess their performance against industry standards and competitors.

Motivation and Morale: Recognition can boost team morale and motivation, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Networking: Award ceremonies and related events offer valuable networking opportunities with industry leaders and potential clients.

Client Confidence: Awards can reassure current and prospective clients of the agency’s capabilities and achievements.

Continuous Improvement: The feedback from judges can provide insights for improvement and innovation.

Company & Role: BSAVA (British Small Animal Veterinary Association), Head of Partnerships and Events

With a passion for the associations industry, I bring 30 years of experience in event management, both in-house and agency-side, working across corporate and association sectors. Currently, I lead the Partnerships and Events team at BSAVA, where I specialise in event strategy development and project management, overseeing everything from end-to-end event delivery to effective resource allocation, leadership, and mentoring. My expertise also extends to brand marketing, communications, financial management, and identifying new revenue streams outside of events. With strong commercial acumen and a talent for building lasting relationships and partnerships, I am committed to driving impactful results in every project I undertake.

What are you looking for in a winning agency?

I’m looking for agencies that are committed to creating inclusive event designs, prioritising sustainability, and fostering meaningful connections. I'm especially interested in how marketing strategies are crafted to drive pre-event engagement and how community-building is integrated.

Have uou worked with / for agencies before?

Yes, I’ve had the privilege of working with several leading PCO agencies, both nationally and internationally.

Why should agencies enter the CNAA's?

Entering the CNAA's offers agencies the recognition they deserve for their dedication to the events industry, especially in challenging times. It's an opportunity to celebrate their achievements, highlight successes, and gain recognition from peers across the industry.

Are you looking forward to joining the panel?

Absolutely. With a curious mindset, I’m eager to see how the events space is evolving—what innovations and creative ideas are being introduced. I’m particularly excited to explore how organisations are enhancing the attendee experience, fostering connections, and developing programs that are truly inclusive in terms of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)

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

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.

Company & Role: Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP, Senior Events Manager

Nicola Weston has worked for some of the world’s most prestigious law firms, ensuring that internal and client engagement events deliver on their objectives and stay at the razor edge of innovation and impact.

Nicola is an industry speaker, senior member of multiple event industry networks, and a passionate advocate of the benefits of Peer Mentoring.  Nicola has qualifications in Coaching and Design Thinking and is a dedicated mentor to members of the event industry both corporate and agency-side.

Alongside her corporate role, Nicola has also lent her skills to numerous pro bono consultancies, including managing a programme of events around HeForShe Arts Week for UN Women NC UK.

What are you looking for in a winning agency?

Transparency, adaptability, creativity, diversity of thought, inclusivity, and an understanding of the nuances of different brand needs. So, not much really!

Have you worked with / for agencies before?

I have a breadth of experience working with a wide spectrum of agencies and a keen interest in how teams can foster healthy and productive working relationships on both sides.

Why should agencies enter the CN Agency Awards?

It is a brilliant opportunity to reflect on and showcase your achievements... great for the feel good factor and for PR... it's a win/win!

Are you looking forward to joining the panel?

Absolutely. Looking forward to reading the entries and contribute in a small way to praising some of the industry's game-changers, innovative thinkers, and unsung heroes who go above and beyond to make their clients look good to their senior stakeholders.  

Company & Role: Osborne Clarke, Events Team Manager

A lover of all things events. A corporate Events Team Manager experienced in running a range of in-person and virtual events from conferences to festivals for groups of 10-1K. Having been both sides of the agency fence and relied on agency expertise for years now am looking forward to getting stuck in to the entries and reading about the ground breaking work that is being done. Super excited to be on the judging panel having worked historically on the operations of awards ceremonies.

What are you looking for in a winning agency?

Innovation, resourcefulness, creativity, flair, a sustainable approach, tenacity in the face of change and a bold attitude as to what can be done.
Have you worked with / for agencies before?

Worked for Elysium Global Events during my brief stint agency side many years ago, and worked with Pure Comms Group, Make Events, Interaction, Conference Care, Lotus Events, Ultimate Experience, Inspirational Venues and Events, Helms Briscoe.

Why should agencies enter the CNAA's?

Because it is a great way to recognise excellence in a saturated market. Having been on the side of tenders an awards win is a unique way to set yourself apart from the competition.

Are you looking forward to joining the panel?

Yes! I can't wait to network with the other judges and be inspired by the entries. Hoping to read all about the boundary breaking work of the last 12 months.

Company & Role: Meetings Industry Association, Chief Executive Officer (incoming)

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.

Company & Role: Baker McKenzie, Events Manager

Strategic events manager with over 10 years experience in the legal sector with a strong focus on maximising business development opportunities and demonstrating ROI. Co-owner of Eventprofslive, a networking group for corporate event professionals.

What are you looking for in a winning agency?

An agency who are an extension of your team, understand your brand, focus on sustainability, creative and innovative.

Have you worked with / for agencies before?

Yes, I've worked with a number of agencies during my time within the industry.

Why should agencies enter the CN Agency Awards?

To raise their profile, showcase their expertise and shout about all their amazing work!

Are you looking forward to joining the panel?

Yes, I'm incredibly excited to see some of the amazing talent in the industry.

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

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.

Have you worked with / for agencies before?

I have worked both with and for agencies.

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.

Company & Role: The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals, Events Manager

Sarah is a skilled event manager with over 9 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 3 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.

Company & Role: Lattice, Events Marketing Manager

Rachael is an experienced Events Marketing Manager with 8 years in the industry, primarily working in-house for global SaaS companies. She has successfully built and led event marketing programs focused on brand awareness and pipeline generation, including flagship conferences and awards. Her expertise has earned her multiple industry awards, including the CN30 Under Thirty. Rachael has contributed to industry initiatives like FastForward15, judged the CN Awards in 2020, and spoken at prominent events such as Confex and Event Careers Live. She has also written for industry publications including Conference News.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

Key qualities I am looking for in a winning agency include:

- Creativity and Innovation: The agency should be able to produce fresh, engaging concepts tailored to your brand and audience.

- Collaborative Approach: They should work as an extension of your team, understanding your goals and values.

-Technical Expertise: Mastery in event technology, including virtual or hybrid capabilities, AV, and production quality.

- Proven Results: Data-driven approach to measuring success through KPIs like attendee satisfaction, lead generation, or brand awareness growth.

- Sustainability: Leading the way in best practises to improve events impact on the environment.

- Great Reputation: Strong client testimonials, reviews and evidence to demonstrate reliability and excellence.

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

Agencies should consider entering industry awards, such as the CN Agency Awards, to gain recognition and credibility, which sets you apart from competitors and attracts new business. Winning boosts your team morale, offers valuable PR and marketing opportunities, and enhances client trust by showcasing your agency's expertise. It is also a great way to stand out as an employer and attract top talent through the recognition you receive. Being part of these awards and showcasing your work to the industry is a powerful step to standing out and growing business.

Have you worked with / for agencies before?

Yes my very first job in the events industry was for an event agency! Having usually been a small or one man team in-house I have worked with agencies regularly to support in venue finding & producing our larger conferences

Company & Role: Diversity Alliance, Founder

Gabby Austen-Browne is a multi-award-winning diversity and inclusion professional, and founder of Diversity Alliance. Her client list includes the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Pageant, Square Enix Fan Fest IV, Jack Morton, Momentum, Informa Tech, Hilton and Stellar Global. She leverages her extensive events and hospitality experience to inform, support, and advise on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging and Accessibility strategies relevant to the sector.

A frequent speaker, writer, and lecturer on Diversity & Inclusion in events, she is also committed to nurturing new industry talent, serving as a mentor, guide, and coach to up-and-coming professionals.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

I'm passionate about seeing agencies that genuinely push creative boundaries while making a real difference. For me, it's about more than just delivering amazing experiences – though that's definitely important! I want to see innovative thinking that creates lasting impact, whether through groundbreaking sustainability initiatives, authentic DE&I integration, or meaningful audience connections. The agencies that excite me most are those brave enough to challenge the status quo while maintaining impeccable delivery standards.

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

In our fast-paced industry, awards like the CNAAs are fantastic for showcasing the incredible work happening across the sector. They're not just about the trophy – they're a brilliant platform for sharing innovation, attracting amazing talent, and demonstrating leadership in crucial areas like sustainability and inclusion. Plus, they're a powerful way to show clients you're at the top of your game and truly committed to driving positive change.

Have you worked with / for agencies before?

I've had the pleasure of partnering with some brilliant agencies including Jack Morton, TRO, Audience, Broadsword and Momentum. My role has been to help them develop and embed meaningful DE&I strategies that work.

Company & Role: Deloitte, Events Operations Lead

Nyree's judge profile will be available shortly.

Company & Role: Santander, Events & Sponsorships Manager

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.

Have you worked with / for agencies before?

Yes. Many! Ad agencies, event agencies, media, creative, etc!

Company & Role: IQ-EQ, Events & Sponsorship - Group

An Events Producer professional, with additional experience of Operations and Internal Corporate Communications within these sectors - food & beverage, fashion, luxury, accessories and beauty.
Strongly focused on results, coupled with excellent problem solving and negotiation skills, and experience of creating seamless internal corporate communications.

I know how to make events work.

I project manage the overall programme of FDF events to ensure the quality delivery of an exciting programme that reflects the current trends of this sector.

I have organised events of vary size and complexity at venues including - The National Gallery;Guildhall;The Roundhouse: London Hilton on Park Lane;The British Museum;The Peligon;HMS Belfast;Altitude360;The Royal Institute;Leicester Square Theatre;Electric Cinema Portobello;The Royal Horticultural Halls;Chino Latino at Park Plaza;Old Billingsgate;Royal Lancaster Hotel;Tanner Warehouse;One Marylebone;Intercontinental Hotel;Century Club and NYX Hotel

My events' experience includes the coordination of large-scale company flagship events (600+ attendees) plus smaller workshops, 'round-table' meetings, stakeholder dinners, and other internal corporate events and parties. I manage the pre-event logistics such as liaising with stakeholders to ascertain event requirements, researching venues, producing invitations, managing the attendee list, preparing speaker presentations and slides, sourcing caterers, producing event collateral, sourcing gifts and booking travel and hotel accommodation;also on-site arrangements including registrations, staff management, any trouble-shooting, the management of suppliers and the post-event process. Effective budget management is essential, including negotiation with third party suppliers. I am also responsible for producing post-event analysis and reports for key stakeholders.

I have also worked for diverse brands such as, The White Company, Jo Malone, Jack Wills, Monsoon Accessorize, Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Penhaligon's.

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 peers and experts.

Company & Role: IQ-EQ, Events and Sponsorship Manager

In-House Corporate Event Manager | Expert in Global Event Strategy

With extensive experience in corporate event management, I have successfully led high-impact events for prestigious organisations such as Slaughter and May, Ashurst, and EY. Currently, I lead the events team at IQ-EQ, where I focus on standardising global event processes, maximizing ROI, and delivering exceptional event experiences. My role also involves close collaboration with regional teams to enhance our brand presence and ensure seamless execution across markets.

Passionate about creating memorable and meaningful experiences, I am dedicated to driving innovative event strategies that align with business goals and foster strong stakeholder engagement.

What qualities are you looking for in a winning agency?

I am looking for creativity, fresh new ideas and the use of exciting technology. An agency who really delves in the client brief and challenges them with better ways of doing things which in turn will enhance the audience experience. Creativity helps to differentiate brands and makes campaigns memorable so this is key for me when considering applications.

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

It is a way for our industry to recognise and celebrate excellence amongst our agencies who are so vital to delivering for our clients. It is a way to for you to showcase your expertise and allows you to demonstrate your skills and differentiate your agency from the competition. It is a great opportunity to showcase your brand.

Have you worked with / for agencies before?

Yes - I have used agencies in most of my roles to help deliver our innovative event programmes.

Company & Role: University of Leicester, Alumni Engagement Manager

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

Company & Role: Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), Events Manager

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.

Have you worked with / for agencies before?

Yes, I have worked with agencies for many years. Currently working with Inntel as my main booking agency. Previously within hotels I was a sales manager so would often account manage agencies and work with updating them on venues and offerings.

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

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.