From the desk of Emma Bowyer

Reflecting on a bumper 2022

2022 was such an incredible year for ICMSA following 18 months of global disruption and, for many people, a high level of uncertainty.

As we near its end I am happy to report that this year has been one of our best on record.

The quality of the conferences we managed, welcoming international participants from all corners of the globe and achieving superb outcomes for our clients, have exceeded expectations.

At the end of November 2022 we had completed 20 conferences and events - nine for international organisations and 11 for domestic clients. Combined, we assisted in bringing 13,500 delegates together, in addition to building business relationships with our sponsors and exhibitors for a value of over $4million. It was definitely the year of hybrid for us, with increased investment in the in-person elements and digital outreach to younger and developing countries being the real winner for all conferences in this format.

With the work-from-home mandate easing by early 2022 we welcomed staff back to refreshed offices in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

We also took time to get away as a team mid-year – heading to Alice Springs to “reconnect” at our Staff Development Conference. And what a time we had. Part reward, part sharing ideas, the event and Northern Territory delivered in spades.

Our annual Directors’ Summit, this time in the Hunter Valley, was held in-between Conferences in October, with great outcomes that we have shared with the wider team and many new initiatives already put into action. Our new five-year plan will be rolled out from 2023, which is looking strong with over 16 conferences of various sizes from a variety of sectors already confirmed. We also have events secured to 2027!

From everybody at ICMS Australasia, the very warmest wishes for a safe and happy Christmas and a brilliant New Year for you, your families and your loved ones.

Emma Bowyer

BESydney News from Board Member Emma Bowyer. Team Sydney 2023 and beyond priorities.

BESydney recently brought together senior representatives from across its Strategic Partner network to discuss `Team Sydney’ priorities for the business visitor economy in 2023.

The group included BESydney Board Members, including ICMSA Owner and Managing Director, Emma Bowyer, and NSW Minister for Tourism, The Hon Ben Franklin.

Just days earlier, BESydney held its Annual General Meeting with CEO Lyn Lewis-Smith reporting for the 2021-2 financial year the company had secured 31 meetings, attracting 47,000 delegates that will generate an estimated AUD$132 million in direct expenditure to the NSW economy.

She added the forward pipeline of events is strong, with future business to 2029 comprising 85 global and national events that will generate an estimated $AUD483m in direct expenditure and attract 111,000 delegates to the city.

These outcomes made the news locally and internationally.

The Director’s Cut: Selina Moscatt, ICMSA Director, Business Strategy

In the third in our series on ICMSA Directors, what they do, how and why, this issue we talk to Director, Business Strategy, Selina Moscatt, on her role within the company and why iron free clothing is a must for a busy working mum. Click here to read the full story.

Out and About

The pre-Christmas period is typically a busy one for those working in the business event sector with end-of-year events around the country.

In Melbourne staff attended an event hosted by the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) for an update on progress of the venue, while in Sydney our team enjoyed drinks and canapes at the Sofitel Darling Harbour, lunch at the Parkroyal Darling Harbour, the Meetings & Events Australia NSW Christmas Party, and a sneak peak at the new wing of the Art Gallery of NSW.

A highlight from the Brisbane office was a night at the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre with Keith Urban.

The entire ICMSA team came together in Sydney for a well-deserved Christmas lunch at Silks Crown which was preceded by a full staff development day to celebrate our achievements throughout the year and reset for a busy 2023.

When Experience Matters

ICMS Australasia manages projects from concept through to final audit, providing expertise in attracting delegates, sponsors and exhibitors; budget and cash flow control, business and scientific program development; information, presentation, communication and staging technology, creation and delivery of social and recreational activities and accommodation. From idea generation to post event evaluation we provide expertise, creativity and a healthy respect for the financial bottom line.

If you are interested in bidding for an event or need help with an event already confirmed, pick up the phone or send us an email.

Our experience will matter.

Please feel free to call or email Emma Bowyer now.