The Professional Conference Organisers Association (PCOA) and Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that aims to enhance the business events industry across Australia and New Zealand.
A statement from the organisations says the strategic partnership “underscores the importance of collaboration and the shared vision of both organisations to elevate the sector’s global competitiveness and sustainability”.
PCOA represents event management professionals across Australia and New Zealand. Business Events Industry Aotearoa is the membership-based association for New Zealand’s business events sector.
The signing took place at BEIA’s annual flagship tradeshow for business events professionals, MEETINGS 2024 in Rotorua.
The MOU has been in the making for over 12 months, with PCOA President Barry Neame and BEIA CEO, Lisa Hopkins working to bring this “landmark” agreement to fruition.
The organisations say the commitment to fostering strong relationships and leveraging synergies between the two key business event associations highlights the critical role of co-operation in driving industry growth and resilience.
“The partnership comes at a pivotal time for the business events industry, which has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years…”
It notes the partnership comes at a pivotal time for the business events industry, which has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years.
“By combining resources and expertise, PCOA and BEIA are poised to provide enhanced support to their members, fostering innovation and excellence in event planning and execution. The MOU will facilitate knowledge sharing, and the development of professional standards that reflect the highest industry benchmarks.”
Neame, visiting New Zealand from Canberra, says the agreement marks a significant milestone for the two organisations.
“By working together, we can harness our collective strengths to create a more dynamic and resilient business events sector. Our members will benefit from increased opportunities for professional development and collaboration, ultimately enhancing the quality and impact of events across our regions.”
Hopkins says the organisations’ recognise the immense potential that lies in collaboration.
“Our shared goal is to support our members, business partners, and suppliers and showcase the exceptional capabilities of the business events industry in Australia and New Zealand.”
MEETINGS 2024 in Rotorua. Image courtesy of BEIA
