Programmes

The CEO of AEO will go through some housekeeping, set the tone for the day and introduce the stream chairs.

The session will run in three interactive phases, each combining short insights from research with a practical activity that brings the ideas to life.

By the end of the session, participants will have takeaways and ideas to improve communication, build confidence and collaborate better (and more calmly) to whatever AI throws at us next!

This session explores the art of listening before marketing. Hear how leading organisers uncover the real needs and motivations of their communities – using data, feedback, and empathy, to build more meaningful stories and drive loyalty.

As marketing roles evolve, collaboration and prioritisation have become key to success. This session explores how marketers can work more strategically with sales, content, and show directors to deliver measurable commercial value, focusing on ROI and ROT.

An interactive exploration of what truly resonates with audiences today. Participants will discuss how to blend human creativity and emotional intelligence with AI-powered tools to create stories that connect and convert.

A candid conversation about redefining success metrics. Are we tracking the KPIs that matter most – or simply what’s easiest to measure? Learn how leading organisers are reframing their data stories to better reflect audience engagement and business impact.

Websites have evolved and we must adapt. We are no longer designing solely for people, we’re also designing for the algorithms, engines, and AI systems that interpret, recommend, and retell our story. This session explores how to build websites that feel human while being seen clearly by AI. Together we must create experiences that resonate emotionally but also translate algorithmically.

Hear how organisers are using AI right now to increase registrations, enhance exhibitor ROI, and streamline operations. This session shares practical, results-driven examples of how AI is already transforming event marketing and delivery.

The CEO of AEO will go through some housekeeping, set the tone for the day and introduce the stream chairs.

The session will run in three interactive phases, each combining short insights from research with a practical activity that brings the ideas to life.

By the end of the session, participants will have takeaways and ideas to improve communication, build confidence and collaborate better (and more calmly) to whatever AI throws at us next!

This session will explore real-world inspiration from brands that use creativity to build deep and valuable connections with their customers. During the keynote there will be hands-on tasks to get involved with, as well as some useful creativity tools to take away.

The CEO of AEO will go through some housekeeping, set the tone for the day and introduce the stream chairs.

The session will run in three interactive phases, each combining short insights from research with a practical activity that brings the ideas to life.

By the end of the session, participants will have takeaways and ideas to improve communication, build confidence and collaborate better (and more calmly) to whatever AI throws at us next!

Leaders share how to motivate, coach, and retain top performers in hybrid/hybrid work models.

Are you facing higher targets than ever but struggling to build a consistent, high-quality pipeline? Are deals dragging or dropping out late in the process? Are clients constantly talking about budget cuts and pushing back on price?

This session will break down why these challenges happen and what salespeople and managers can do to overcome them. Expect practical, real-world solutions tailored to media and events, with insights you can put into action immediately. It will be an interactive, high-energy session focused on what’s working right now to drive the KPIs that matter most in sales.

Two professionals share their progression stories.

Sales is no longer something you’re just “good at” or not. It’s a professional career to be proud of – one that demands continuous improvement and adaptability, especially in an unpredictable world where buyer behaviour has changed forever.

In this interactive, light-hearted session, participants will have the chance to showcase their sales skills in a safe, fun environment. It’s about celebrating the profession, building confidence, and demonstrating what great looks like in today’s sales landscape.

How AI tools and new technologies are reshaping the sales process.
 

Alexi will share a closing summary, key takeaways, and announce the winner of the sales pitch challenge.