Blog posts

Learnings from the International Working Group

Chris Skeith – AEO – Chief Executive Officer

As the easing of lockdown measures take effect across the world, the events industry sits tight in anticipation of the government’s next steps.

 

AEO, AEV & ESSA have been navigating the COVID-19 crisis with the amazing support of our members, other associations, and the broader industry.

As the challenges twist and turn, we have activated our political network to gain representation at the highest level of government – speaking directly to MP’s and complimenting the hard work of members, the trade media, and non-members seeking support for our wonderful industry.

On the 9th January 2020, the AEO International Group set out a new and bold strategy for the year ahead at their start of the year CEO summit. Little did anyone know the world would change a matter of days later.

Imagine a thief in the night snuck in and made off with the awards from your office display cabinet.

Would you still be the same noteworthy company?

Of course you would.

But what if another employer made off with the talented people who helped win those awards?

 

It could happen and it does.

While looking attractive to new recruits is important, a strong retention strategy is one that should never be overlooked. After all, you know that the most valuable assets of your company are not the trophies on display but the hard-working folks, who bring them to the cabinet.

Last week, more than 100 exhibition representatives from around the globe arrived in Rome for the UFI Global CEO Summit.

I’m going to cut straight to the chase on what was a hugely pivotal moment for me. I shook hands with Pope Francis!

The theme of the 2020 AEO Forums was “Work smarter, not harder,” and I can’t imagine a more apt theme for the beginning of 2020.