On 27, 28 and 29 January 2013, the “European Meetings & Events Conference” was held in the Swiss town of Montreux.  Over 350 professionals from the sector gathered together to participate in a variety of interesting presentations that included, for example, how to organise large scale events, the future of the MICE sector, the importance of integrating new technologies, etc. From “The Mark of a Leader”” they shared their experiences, successes and objectives, placing special emphasis on the need to believe in your objectives, detailing five key aspects of leadership (spirit, intellect, imagination, courage and diplomacy).

In addition to organising small meetings of 5 or 6 individuals or buffets to promote networking between professionals, the environment was very conducive to creating synergies and exchanging ideas.  There were discussions on the importance of topics such as: visiting sites before choosing a location; initial contact with important suppliers; the quality of “networking”; and Time-Technology-Talent.

The three days were filled with discussions and talks which enabled participants to learn from each other’s knowledge and experiences. For example, the use of the “Six Hats Method”, to enable alternative ways of thinking, was discussed. The speaker Jeffer London wanted to foster effective conversations between the participants at an event and talked about the “The World Café” method. Another inspirational presentation was that given by Bertrand Piccard, who talked about his experience as a doctor, explorer and aeronaut, highlighting the importance of taking risks, solving challenges and global responsibility to offer a more sustainable world.

Franck Bárbaras, Director of PortAventura Business & Events and PortAventura Convention Centre, was one of the participants at this important and interesting event organised by MPI (Meeting Professionals International). An association founded in 1972, MPI currently comprises more than 21,000 professionals from 80 countries associated with the events organisation sector.

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