The 1st Meetings Masterclass, an educational initiative from IAPCO (International Association of Professional Congress Organisers) in collaboration with IPCAA (International Pharmaceutical Congress Advisory Association), took place in Wolfsberg, educational home of IAPCO, in January, in parallel with IAPCO’s traditional annual seminar. Attracting an even split of participants from the Pharma industry (33%), PCOs (33%) and other sectors (International Organisations, Convention Bureaux and Centres 33%), the Masterclass achieved its desired range of attendees allowing a level playing field for cross sector discussion and debate. 25% of the attendees were Alumni from IAPCO’s Annual Seminar, stretching over 18 years, taking the opportunity to return to Wolfsberg.
Top level speakers included Sylvia Fondanèche and Anna Frick (President and Immediate Past President, IPCAA, respectively); Jurriaen Sleijster, Danny Rivlin, Jan Tonkin and Susanne Kostka (IAPCO); and invited speakers Ruud Janssen (TNOC), Luc Volatier (IMD International), Pierce Riemer (World Petroleum Congress), Cherie Davis (InterCall Streaming) and Carole Poilerat (AstraZeneca) creating an impressive line-up.
Whilst the participants applauded the level of presentation and case study interaction, they had plenty of suggestions for next year. Extending the course by an additional day, video-streaming all sessions, pre-event interaction via social media, increased breaks, more hands on – these challenges were immediately absorbed by the IAPCO Training Academy to be considered for the future. “Very inspiring”, wrote one enthusiastic participant following the event, “with great networking and exchange opportunities”. “A must for all decision-makers in the meetings industry”.
The 2nd Meetings Masterclass will take place at Wolfsberg, Switzerland, 23-26 January 2012.
