AEO Conference 2025 returns to Manchester Central with future-focused theme

“Quantum leap: Events in the transformation era” to shape this year’s senior-level discussions.

In association with GES, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, and Manchester Central

The Association of Event Organisers (AEO) is pleased to announce that the AEO Conference 2025 will take place on Thursday 4th September at Manchester Central, bringing senior industry leaders together for a high-impact day of insight, discussion and connection.

Alison Willis, chief executive officer of Easyfairs UK & Global and currently vice chair of AEO, will chair this year’s conference and simultaneously take over as chair of AEO in September. With more than 25 years of industry experience, Willis is a respected leader known for championing innovation, inclusivity, and talent development across the sector. She has led diverse event portfolios and is widely respected for bringing people and ideas together to drive progress across the sector.

This year’s theme, “Quantum leap: Events in the transformation era,” sets the tone for a programme focused on how technology, leadership and changing expectations are reshaping the events industry.

The conference will once again be preceded by an icebreaker evening on Wednesday 3rd September, exclusively sponsored by Excel London. Held at Club Brass, Hotel Gotham, the evening offers informal networking with food and drinks included. Attendance is open to all AEO Conference delegates.

With over 250+  senior attendees expected; from MDs and group directors to department heads—the AEO Conference remains a key fixture in the calendar for organisers, venues and suppliers alike.

Highlights from the 2025 programme include:

• A conversation on cross-sector leadership and finding new opportunities and investment
• A global panel on growing internationally and building resilience across markets
• A practical session on applying AI to planning, data, and team performance
• Insights into what’s driving revenue growth
• A look at how organisers are reimagining the attendee experience through content and festival-style formats
• A closing discussion on culture change and leadership through business transformation

Delegates will also enjoy breakout discussions, curated networking, and the return of the AEO run club - an optional and energising start to the day for runners.

Anna Golden, chief executive of AEO, said:
“It’s a real privilege to experience my first AEO Conference as chief executive at such a pivotal moment for the industry. The pace of change is moving at speed and this event gives our community the space to step back, share ideas and explore what’s next. I’m looking forward to hearing from some real powerhouses across the sector and continuing to build momentum for the future of events.”

The AEO Conference 2025 is proudly presented in association with headline sponsors GES, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) and Manchester Central.

Jason Stead, president at GES EMEA, said:
"The AEO Conference’s quantum leap theme for this year is perfectly timed. AI, evolving customer expectations, and innovative commercial models are reshaping our landscape at an exciting pace.”

Stead continued: "The concept of a quantum leap is a powerful metaphor for the transformative changes in our industry. We are on the brink of significant advancements driven by data, technology, and innovation. We’re proud to be headline sponsors and have the opportunity to share and gain insights that will shape the future of events."

John Schreiber, vice president of business sales at LVCVA, commented:
“The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) is proud to sponsor the AEO Conference 2025. Las Vegas is synonymous with bold ideas and endless possibilities. We’re excited to support AEO, which helps advance the meetings and exhibition industry through innovation and transformation.”  
 

Lori Hoinkes, chief executive at Manchester Central, commented:
“We are thrilled to welcome the AEO Conference back to Manchester this year, giving this prestigious group of members a real taste of Northern hospitality once again!

“It’s incredibly fitting that Manchester is the backdrop for this year’s conference theme; a city built on innovation that not only fuelled the first industrial revolution but continues to lead the way in pioneering advancements. I’m really looking forward to what we can achieve when we combine the best of our industry with Manchester’s creative and collaborative spirit!”

For programme details, ticket bookings and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.aeoconference.org.uk.