Conference News April 2021 | Page 8

8 Association comment

POWER OF COMMUNITY

ABPCO ’ s association director , Heather Lishman , explores long-term strategy and focuses on the importance of professionalism in a changing world he old adage ‘ what gets measured gets done ’ is true for any business or organisation , and it is something we at the Association of British Professional Conference Organisers ( ABPCO ) adhere to as we continue to develop the association for the benefit of all our members and partners . This approach is something we are proud of and want to share far and wide because of the long-term positive impact it is having on ABPCO and could also have on other associations looking to deliver for their members .
In fact , it is this ability to deliver value that is so important ; yes , we have a desire to grow and a need to be profitable and financially successful . However , more importantly , associations live or die by the sense of community and engagement they have with their members ; their ability to bring people together and support each other is what makes the best associations thrive and we intend to keep pushing forward with that attitude , always putting our members and their needs first .
Lead by goals Our executive board drives these lofty and ambitious goals forward through a close adherence to a strategic plan that has seen significant change over the past 12 months . Our industry has always needed to be agile and nimble , but this requirement has grown even stronger as perspectives , working styles and more have changed since January 2020 . To achieve our ongoing goals and deliver for our members , we help facilitate meaningful conversations , knowledge sharing and collaboration , which in turn leads to innovation , learning , new
Excellence Awards 2019 , ICC Wales . Photo : courtesy of Simon Callaghan
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