hat are beam ’ s plans for 2023 ? Sian Sayward ( SS ): 2023 will be very busy , we have big plans and a packed events calendar . beam celebrated its 25th anniversary in October , which was a huge milestone in what was another challenging year . Collaboration and support will remain intrinsic to beam . We will continue to work with other industry bodies to achieve common goals and provide support at the highest levels for members .

What are your strategic objectives ? SS : We will strive to deliver thought leadership that positively impacts our industry , along with membership and partnership strategies that support association growth while prioritising member retention . We will elevate our identity , voice and perceived value ; drive professionalism and best practice ; and aim to be seen as an authority for opinion and support . Becoming net zero by 2030 is a key goal , too .

How will you achieve beam ’ s vision ? SS : The board and our action groups are continuing their hard work to fully realise our vision , which is to be recognised as the association for the business events , accommodation , and meetings industry . beam seeks to promote professionalism , ethical and sustainable practices , diversity , education , innovation , while also acting as a unified and powerful voice for members .

Sian Sayward

This is no small target but one I am 100 % confident we ’ ll achieve with the current team of dedicated volunteers working on behalf of us all .

Our four association pillars – resilience , ethics , innovation and quality – are as significant as ever . We remain fully committed to supporting , guiding , and championing best practices across the industry on behalf of our members .

Why should organisations join beam ? SS : For me , it ’ s very simple . beam represents every part of our industry and allows for a wider community with a greater voice . beam is taking us into sustainable growth and longevity . Built on best practices in business , and supported by the four pillars , our HBAA heritage has provided the springboard for an exciting and ambitious strategy that has our members firmly at its heart .

Contact Web : beam-org . uk Phone : 01379 788187 Email : membership @ beam-org . uk

Upcoming events

beam ’ s Great Supplier Winter Showcase : 16 February at East Midlands Conference Centre This relaxed showcase provides an ideal opportunity for agency bookers to gain knowledge of beam suppliers and meet the representatives who promote these businesses . This event will feature networking , education about hot topics , so we can understand and support each other in achieving common goals .

Visit beam-org . uk to register .

International Confex : beam Buddy Station – 1-2 March at ExCeL London In partnership with beam , International Confex will be introducing the beam Buddy Station where industry newbies will be paired with someone willing to help event profs maximise their time on-site . beam is delighted that some of our own board and action group members will be taking part and helping those entering – or returning – to the events sphere .

Visit www . international-confex . com for more information .