A Note from EIC President and CEO Amy Calvert
As I write this message, I am a day away from attending my son’s college graduation. In addition to this noteworthy celebration, we have a backdrop of moving, interviewing and all the changes that life presents to us as we transition from one phase to another. The broader backdrop of what is happening in our world has indeed had an impact on his journey, as it is having on all of us in many ways.
The term “uncertainty” is often used to describe our current macro geopolitical and economic realities and their impact on our workforce and wellbeing.
In times like these, it helps me to navigate through it all by considering the potential opportunity that presents itself when faced with disruption.
It is certainly a time for a united voice around our purpose, our impact and our shared values as a sector. It is also a reminder of the need for deep empathy and consideration on how the turmoil impacts us as humans. And it is a reminder that we cannot take business outcomes for granted.
The EIC Futures Landscape Report, released in March, reminded us that we live in a world where foresight matters. To remain resilient, we must envision multiple scenarios to future-proof our organisations. We must anticipate disruptions and understand the macro forces and correlating trends shaping our world.
Over the past few months, I’ve often thought about the courage our workforce finds to put themselves out there, to keep forging ahead — and how we as leaders can help them find their way. While our world does at time feel fragile, I am hopeful. I believe deeply in what we do and the impact we have on the world through the fostering of human connection.
I am grateful for the more than 1,000 people who contributed to the updated CMP International Standards, which were released in January and will inform the new exam launching in August. The updated Standards include a call to build meaningful and inclusive experiences.
Over the years as we have worked together to build guidance and resources, our incredible volunteers have curated a rich repository that remains relevant today. Among the resources are the Risk Management Guidebook, Resources for Business Continuity, and Resources for Workforce and Wellness. I encourage you to revisit these as they remind us of how our standards and competencies provide a strong foundation for navigating uncertainty.
I am reminded that we do not need to rely solely on policy to take meaningful action. Social impact, inclusion and wellbeing have all been incorporated into our CMP International Standards and have been a major focus as we host conversations on these topics including the framework for CMP Advance, which will return in 2026. These areas, which are central to our mission and values, will continue to be a priority for our organisation. EIC will remain vigilant in advocating for our sector and the people it supports.
Yes, we live in a challenging, often tumultuous world, but there is also inspiration, joy, connection, commitment and love. As a global community, we must remind ourselves of what is possible when we make time to reflect and prioritise curiosity and generous questions over assumptions.
During a recent trip to Singapore, I had the distinct pleasure of participating in an event showcasing students’ final projects from a 13-week course at the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), where the module was co-taught by the incredible team at Marina Bay Sands events team and partners. I could not think of a better way to celebrate the essence of what Global Meetings Industry Day has come to represent. The presentations by the students were stellar, filled with innovation, insights and creativity. Their passion for our industry was contagious.
I left with a full heart and an understanding that our future is indeed in good hands. The academic advisory at SIT and other local stakeholders such as PCMA APAC delivered an extraordinary program. We have full coverage of the event in this month’s CMP Today.
Thank you for leadership and for being a part of the amazing global community, for the support you provide each other, and for the many contributions you make to the global business events industry.
Amy Calvert, President and CEO, Events Industry Council