VICE CHAIR’S LETTER
WELCOME
In these uncertain times events have continued to
exhibit their higher value. From the planned Battle of the
Somme commemorations to more impromptu anti-racism
demonstrations, people have come together to express
their solidarity for peace, forgiveness and to celebrate
diversity. Whether it is the outsider winning through or
the inspiration of those competing at Rio’s Paralympic
Games, human events of many types will capture our
emotions and our imaginations this summer.
The research project that has been undertaken for BVEP
has brought together a compendium of studies that will
aid in the evidence of how Events are GREAT. Whilst
there is a natural focus towards the numerical value of
events, we should be mindful of their softer powers and
how we research these. We similarly need to understand
the darker side of human nature and how we can stop
events being used for acts of violence, abuse, crime,
terrorism and corruption.
People are also our greatest asset. This is demonstrated
by the piece on Glasgow, where Ambassadors from a
variety of industries have had a substantial impact on the
success of the conventions sector. Can we use this as
an example of how the event sector can work together
for the greater good and make BVEP a unified body of
distinct parts? My piece on professionalisation questions
what is traditionally regarded as a profession and asks
whether you are prepared to support the Institute of
Event Management or have alternative proposals to
recognise and reward the talent that we have?
I am taken with the comment that Nick de Bois makes in
his piece on the reputational standing of the UK events
sector around the world and the results that can be
achieved by us working together in harnessing the power
of government. The reports from the Regions identify
that there has already been a renewed focus on events
and provision of funding to support improvements and
innovative ways of winning new business. We need you
to contribute to the success of the events sector – your
views, ideas, bids and passion is needed to ensure
Events are GREAT Britain.
01
Caroline Jackson
Vice Chair - BVEP
Chair - AEME