Backstage Leadership Conversations

Enhancing Skills and Purpose-Driven Events

In this episode, host Nick Hall delves into skills development and talent attraction in the MICE sector. Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA, shares how the MICE sector is evolving to meet new challenges, such as combatting climate change and engaging with broader societal issues. He also emphasises the huge ecosystem business events are part of and the significant economic benefits they bring. Read the full article about this episode: https://www.thinkdigital.travel/opinion/enhancing-skills-and-purpose-driven-events

Saudi Arabia's MICE Ambitions

In this episode, host Nick Hall explores the ambitious projects and rapid developments taking place in Saudi Arabia's events landscape. Amjad Shacker, former CEO of the Saudi Conventions and Exhibition General Authority, highlights the strategic plans supporting Saudi Arabia's burgeoning MICE sector. He also talks about investment opportunities and the increasing role of technology in enhancing the sector's competitiveness. Read the full article about this episode: https://www.thinkdigital.travel/opinion/saudi-arabias-mice-ambitions

How Events Drive Impactful Innovation

In this episode, host Nick Hall delves into impactful storytelling in the MICE sector. James Latham, producer of The Iceberg - presented by the Joint Meetings Industry Council - shares insights on the pivotal role that face-to-face meetings and professional communities can play in fostering social, economic and regenerative impact. He also explores the transformation brought about by recent global challenges, the critical importance of sustainability in events and how business events can act as a catalyst for innovation and societal change. Read the full article about this episode: https://www.thinkdigital.travel/opinion/how-events-drive-impactful-innovation

How Abu Dhabi is Building a Global MICE Hub

In this episode, host Nick Hall explores the trends and technology advancements shaping Abu Dhabi's future ambitions for the MICE sector. Mubarak Al Shamsi, Director of Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau, discusses the role of innovation and the impact of AI in achieving the ambitious vision of positioning Abu Dhabi as a global hub for business events. He also outlines the diverse cultural and infrastructural elements that create a truly competitive edge for attracting business events. Read the full article about this episode: https://www.thinkdigital.travel/opinion/how-abu-dhabi-is-building-a-global-mice-hub

Driving Sustainability Through Destination Leadership

In this episode, host Nick Hall unpacks how sustainability is becoming embedded within the MICE sector. Guy Bigwood, CEO of the GDS-Movement, emphasises the critical role that destinations play in driving sustainability and the innovative solutions being implemented to address climate change. He highlights the importance of incremental performance improvements alongside transformative mindset shifts. Read the full article about this episode: https://www.thinkdigital.travel/opinion/driving-sustainability-through-destination-leadership