CINZ 2015 conference attracts industry leaders

CINZ 2015 conference attracts industry leaders

One of the world’s top business events leaders heads the list of speakers at the Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (CINZ) annual conference in Christchurch next month.

Claire Smith, Vancouver Convention Centre’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing will ask delegates “Are we getting our share of international conventions?”.

CINZ Chief Executive, Sue Sullivan says Claire has built a strong reputation as an involved and informed leader in the global meetings industry over the last 25 years. She is a recognised expert in her field and has been a featured speaker and facilitator at industry conferences throughout North America, Europe and Asia.

“Vancouver has been named this year as North America’s top destination for international meetings by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and we are excited to find out why,” Sue Sullivan says.

Over 120 CINZ members including owners and managers of key venues, catering companies, accommodation providers, activity operators and regional convention bureaux will meet on 29 and 30 September at Christchurch’s new Hadlee Pavilion in Hagley Park.

The conference begins on Monday evening 28 September with welcome drinks at Christchurch’s Transitional Cardboard Cathedral. The newly restored Isaac Theatre Royal will host the event’s gala dinner on 29 September.

This year’s theme ‘Growing Together’ fits perfectly with the conference host city Christchurch, Sue Sullivan says.

“Christchurch is rebuilding and developing a vibrant offering for the conference and events sector which we will witness first hand.

“It is an exciting time for CINZ. As a strong sector, with a strong voice we are moving together on a major growth curve.

“New Zealand’s business events sector is growing as a collective. We see growth in large organisations providing opportunities for growth in smaller businesses,” she says.

Claire Smith is also running one of eight workshops where industry leaders will share their knowledge on convention business strategies, leadership, real world health and safety, and business-to-business social media.

Speaker, author and mentor Laurel McLay, who recently launched the successful CINZ Emerging Talent series, will run two workshops on building business through thought leadership.

To register attendance go to www.cinzannualconference.co.nz

ENDS

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