The Association of Event Organisers (AEO) Conference will return to Manchester Central in September and is expected to bring together more than 250 senior industry professionals. Alison Willis, chief executive officer of Easyfairs UK & Global and current vice chair of AEO, will chair the conference and formally take over as chair of AEO in September.
The AEO Conference 2025 will focus on the theme “Quantum leap: Events in the transformation era.” The programme includes sessions on cross-sector leadership, international growth, AI applications, revenue strategies, attendee experience design and organisational transformation.
Alison Willis brings over 25 years of experience to her new role and is known for her work in innovation, inclusivity, and talent development across the events sector. The event aims to encourage insight, collaboration and future-focused discussion.
Anna Golden, chief executive of AEO, stated: “It’s a real privilege to experience my first AEO Conference as chief executive at such a pivotal moment for the industry. The pace of change is moving at speed and this event gives our community the space to step back, share ideas and explore what’s next.”
Jason Stead, president at GES EMEA, commented on the relevance of the theme: “The AEO Conference’s quantum leap theme for this year is perfectly timed. AI, evolving customer expectations, and innovative commercial models are reshaping our landscape at an exciting pace. The concept of a quantum leap is a powerful metaphor for the transformative changes in our industry. We are on the brink of significant advancements driven by data, technology, and innovation.”
Lori Hoinkes, chief executive at Manchester Central, highlighted the location’s significance: “It’s incredibly fitting that Manchester is the backdrop for this year’s conference theme; a city built on innovation that not only fuelled the first industrial revolution but continues to lead the way in pioneering advancements.”
The conference aims to provide a platform for senior leaders across the events industry to examine how emerging technologies, evolving expectations, and strategic leadership are reshaping the sector. The agenda includes a global panel on resilience and international growth, a session on practical uses of AI in event planning and team performance, and discussions on driving revenue and reimagining attendee experiences.
John Schreiber, vice president of business sales at LVCVA, emphasised the importance of innovation: “The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) is proud to sponsor the AEO Conference 2025. Las Vegas is synonymous with bold ideas and endless possibilities. We’re excited to support AEO, which helps advance the meetings and exhibition industry through innovation and transformation.”
Additional features include curated networking sessions, breakout discussions, and the return of the AEO run club.
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