Q. Please tell us about your professional journey so far, including the challenges you’ve faced and the milestones you’ve reached over the years.
Marta Gomes. I’ve worked in the meetings and events industry for over 20 years, in various sales and business development roles at Paris Convention Centres. I’m fortunate to promote one of the most successful destinations in the world, but we’ve had our fair share of challenges with political tensions, terrorist attacks and more recently the global pandemic that has had a devastating impact on our industry worldwide. Some of the most exciting moments over the years have been hosting the COP 21 climate change conference which culminated in the signing of the Paris Agreement, being part of the team involved in the opening of the new Paris Convention Centre in 2018 and an incredibly successful 2019, and we’re looking forward to the Olympic and Paralympic Games next year in our city.
Q. With a 60 plus year history, ICCA has been championing the interests of its members and helping them achieve their objectives. How do you intend to take forward this legacy of ICCA?
Marta Gomes. The core purpose of our industry is to bring people together. Our ability to create meaningful connections, share knowledge and foster collaboration is what sets us apart, and ICCA has embodied these values throughout its long history as a leading international association. I approach this ICCA legacy with a mixture of gratitude and a sense of purpose. I’m grateful to be able to count on a strong community of ICCA members, a motivated CEO and team, and an amazing Board of Directors made up of industry leaders from around the world. I’m committed to continuing to strengthen our value proposition to our members, encouraging them to engage with each other, share ideas, learn from different perspectives and foster an environment where innovation and creativity flourish. It is through these interactions that new opportunities arise, collaborations are born and our association thrives.
Q. What would be the highlights of upcoming Congress? Can you share some of its latest developments?
Marta Gomes. My favourite feature of this year’s Congress is our Sharing Hubs. Each morning starts with a dedicated 90-minute sharing session where content is delegate-led. 80 meeting industry leaders from around the world have volunteered to be content champions and lead these sessions, creating a dynamic sharing experience where our members can voice their expectations and aspirations and discuss the burning issues we all want to explore.
The final day will focus on action and outcomes. We will capture the learning and translate it into actionable steps for each participant to take home.
Q. What are the future growth strategies of the association? Where do you see the association five years down the line?
Marta Gomes. ICCA has always had a strong base of loyal and long-standing members – this year we’re celebrating 3 organisations that have been members for 50 years! I see opportunities for our community to grow in new markets, to extend our services and expertise to new generations of meetings professionals, and to explore new business opportunities across all regions and our diverse membership. Our business focus has always been, and will continue to be, about delivering value to our members and the communities we serve.
Q. Sustainability is a rallying call, a promise and ICCA being a founding member of “The Roadmap to Net Zero Carbon Events”. What is your vision regarding incorporating sustainable practices in event planning?
Marta Gomes. Sustainability concerns in event planning are not new, and venues and destinations have been developing strategies and solutions to address them for many years. This goes beyond simply hosting and organizing greener events, but also extends to how we make a positive contribution to the communities in which we operate. By promoting sustainable practices such as reducing waste, conserving energy and supporting local businesses, we can be a force for good and promote a more sustainable future.
ICCA is proud to contribute to the collaborative effort that unites all of our industry’s stakeholders in a common pledge and methodology to accelerate our actions in response to the threat of climate change and achieve net zero by 2050.
Q. According to you, what three developments will change the global industry most dramatically in the next five years?
Marta Gomes. I have seen our customers focus on 3 key areas:
- Data and Personalization: Data-driven insights can improve events by enabling personalized experiences for attendees and exhibitors alike. Advanced analytics can identify attendees’ preferences and behaviors, allowing exhibitors to tailor their offerings effectively. This personalization enhances engagement, leading to more meaningful interactions and increased business opportunities. By leveraging data, organisers can optimize matchmaking, ensuring that participants connect with the most relevant partners and products.
- Community and Belonging: I see business events organisers increasingly focus on fostering a sense of community and belonging among their attendees, creating a longer-lasting experience before and after the show. Online forums, live chats, and virtual content shared year-round enable participants to engage in discussions and share insights, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. Strengthening these connections enhances collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange among industry peers.
- Sustainability: As shared above, the meetings and events industry is undergoing a significant shift towards sustainability, driven by environmental concerns and consumer demands. Events are adopting eco-friendly practices, such as reducing waste, using renewable energy sources, and working more with local suppliers. Sustainable design and construction of exhibition spaces will minimize the environmental impact.
Additionally, trade fairs will showcase sustainable products and solutions, promoting eco-conscious choices among exhibitors and attendees. Embracing sustainability will not only align the industry with global environmental goals but also attract socially responsible exhibitors and attendees, enhancing the industry’s reputation and long-term viability.
TMS. What does your typical workday look like? Please tell us about your hobbies and other activities that you would love to do at home.
Marta Gomes. I start my day by cycling to work, passing the Eiffel Tower on the way. The crisp morning air and views of the city energise me for the day ahead. My day is usually filled with meetings with either clients or my team. In the evenings, I like to go to the opera or just relax with a good book. Reading has always been a way for me to explore different worlds, stories and perspectives. I also love travelling, discovering new cities, cultures and cuisines, and feeling close to nature when hiking in the mountains.
Q. What would be your message to the industry?
Marta Gomes. It starts with us – this is the theme of this year’s ICCA congress. It describes the strength and resilience of the people who work in events, and the leadership role we play as destinations, venues and meeting planners in shaping the future of our industry through creativity and innovation. It talks about our collective power of sharing ideas and stories to help each other and move faster together. It’s a call to action, four days full of the inspiration and energy you need to think about your individual role, how you can contribute, and lead your team, your company, your city on a path towards making positive changes.
