IBTM has announced the first details of its Knowledge Programme for IBTM World Barcelona, due to take place at Fira Barcelona from November 30 to December 2, 2021.
The conference programme includes three keynote speakers, as well as a packed schedule of sessions around four themes: trends and technology; gamification and engagement; the future of event planning (including sustainability, safety and security and government support); and career and personal development.
Keynote speakers are drawn from industries outside of meetings and events, and include expert in digitisation and internationalisation, Alba del Villa Olano. Del Villa Olano has spoken at more than 20 international conferences and founded and directed several digital projects. A visiting professor at the University of Navarra and consultant for several leading Spanish companies, Del Villa Olano will discuss how the digitalisation process affects the events industry and offer ideas on how event organisers can adapt to the changing landscape.
On day two, ex-Deutsche Bank and PwC employee and founder and CEO of TLC Lions, Gian Power, will present a keynote session on the power of storytelling. Power will share his story and explore what he’s learnt about happiness and authenticity in the workplace. During this session, attendees will be provided with resources and tips to implement into their own lives, as well as takeaways for their organisations.
On the final day, founder of Wavelength Marketing, Darren Coleman, will explore how event organisers can harness the power of experiences to make their events stand out. With over 20 years’ brand marketing experience spanning both B2B and B2C, Coleman has helped organisations such as Orange, Nikon, Standard Life, Pepsi, BUPA, and UK Trade & Investment address a range of brand-related issues.
A further 65 Knowledge Programme sessions will be delivered by a diverse range of expert speakers from organisations including the United Nations Climate Change, LinkedIn, CrowdComms, American Express Meetings and Events, ICCA, VisitScotland, BBC Creative and more.
The programme also includes a specially curated Association Programme which will follow three core themes: inspire, exchange and solve. The programme will feature case studies, speeches and panel sessions from some of the leading organisations in the association sector.
IBTM Accelerate will also return to help answer delegates’ questions on the future of the events industry. IBTM Accelerate will showcase solutions, applications and technologies on specific meetings and events industry challenges. The programme will address issues such as the change in consumer behaviour, the role of technology, sustainability, and the future of the events industry.
In addition, on day two, IBTM’s Elite Corporate Programme will explore key insights focused on the needs of corporate Hosted Buyers. Themes include the future of the meetings experience, restarting events and evaluating their success, and peer-to-peer learning and insights.
IBTM World Barcelona has also been granted preferred provider status from the Events Industry Council for its Knowledge Programme. This allows delegates to gain Certified Meeting Professional points for each education session attended.
