30 ABPCO
NAVIGATING
Sarah Byrne
NEW HORIZONS
ABPCO co-chair Sarah Byrne looks at some key trends in the PCO sector for the months ahead
ollowing the start of another financial year is an ideal time to consider the year ahead , including the dynamic shifts and challenges we are likely to see in PCOs ( professional conference organisers ). Among the many issues and trends to be aware of is that of talent acquisition and retention , always an area of consideration for our industry . It continues to evolve , particularly with the changing landscape of vocational education and technological advancement . It is an area we keenly observe as we seek trends and opportunities for our members and their association events .
The challenge of talent acquisition Recent trends indicate a significant hurdle in talent acquisition within the PCO industry , primarily driven by budget cuts in universities across vocational courses , which is where ( in most instances ) conference and event management courses sit .
This fiscal tightening has led to fewer graduates entering the conference and event workforce with directly relevant skills , creating a gap that industry leaders must address swiftly . The reduction in specialised educational programmes threatens to stifle the infusion of fresh talent , vital for the sustenance and growth of the PCO sector .
Despite these challenges , ABPCO has cultivated a promising new cadre of fully engaged event students . This engagement is crucial as it highlights a potential pathway to rejuvenate entry-level talent pools . Although we are seeing less talent , the quality is higher than ever .
The rise of alternative qualifications The industry is starting to witness a pivot towards alternative qualifications . According to a recent ABPCO impact survey , although the majority still want direct event skills , there is a growing recognition that STEM qualifications and tech expertise are not just relevant but incredibly beneficial , especially in the wake of rising digital and hybrid events .
In addition , the demand for skills traditionally associated with television production roles underscores a shfit , as organisers adapt to more sophisticated , tech-driven event environments .
Moving from acquisition to retention , the industry faces another set of
“ Fiscal tightening has led to fewer graduates entering the conference and events workforce ” challenges . It is increasingly clear that salary alone does not tether talent to the PCO sector . Issues of work-life balance and wellbeing are now becoming critical for staff retention . The intense periods of onsite work are being questioned by a younger workforce that values balance and holistic wellbeing .
Embracing modern work-life balance concepts involves not only rethinking compensation structures , such as time in lieu or bonus payments , but also fundamentally altering work habits that have in many cases remained unchanged since the 1980s .
A resilient future Despite the hurdles , there is optimism about the future of the PCO industry . The new entrants bring with them not just skills but fresh perspectives . This influx of talent is poised to drive significant change , potentially leading to more adaptive industry practices .
While there are notable challenges , particularly in talent management , the opportunities for innovation and growth are immense . ABPCO ’ s commitment to nurturing new talent and reshaping industry standards is indicative of a sector ready to embrace change . The industry stands on the brink of transformative growth , powered by a new generation of professionals equipped to navigate its complexities and capitalise on its opportunities . CN
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