International Association of Venue Managers Reveals New Re-Branding and Conference Strategy
August 1, 2016
This year, the International Association of Venue Managers leadership made three distinct decisions that have changed the associations’ course and has its members excited.
The first decision was the hiring of a new president and CEO - the long-standing, forward-thinking industry leader Brad Mayne, CFE.
The other two, critical decisions are the interwoven “Re-Brand” and “Conference Strategy” initiatives, both of which have been a year in the making.
“It was essential that the new IAVM brand have many fingerprints on it—and it does.” said Lauren Wanski, design manager with Gensler’s brand and analytics studio in Chicago.
She added, “Hundreds of members provided input along the way, and months of collaboration with the staff and leadership of the association ensured that the final outcome would embody the passion, commitment, and contributions of the great collective of people at the heart of IAVM.”
Karen Totaro, CFE, 2015-016 IAVM chair, added, “While our ‘Re-Brand’ highlights who IAVM is and where we are going, it resulted in the driving promise of ‘inspiring leaders, building expertise and CREATING CONNECTIONS FOR LIFE’ - what an impactful way to truly share what IAVM is all about,”
In turn, the “conference strategy” is focused on just that statement as it builds on some very key goals: Protect the intimacy and focus of the sector conferences, preserve the cross-sector networking and knowledge sharing enabled by VenueConnect, secure the IAVM marketplace as a thriving hub for Allied and Professional connections, grow the relevance and value of the overall conference experience and, finally, provide the opportunity to integrate private meetings into the design of the conference in future years.
“I’m most looking forward to the strong focus on sector tracks. This structure will make it easier for me to justify in my budget attending the conference or sending my team members to the conference,” said Erin Jepson, CMP, 2016-2017 chair of the VenueConnect Program Committee.
He added, “The opportunity to participate in an event that brings the incredible minds that plan each of the sector conferences to the VenueConnect planning table is an opportunity not to be missed next year in Nashville.”
All three decisions had very inclusive processes to ensure IAVM members’ voices were heard.
“The results are better for it,” Totaro said.
IAVM’s 92nd annual VenueConnect will be held Au. 7-9, 2017, at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tenn.
Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here.
New Wave Experiences
Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024.
Enhanced Technology
Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space.
Refreshing New Design & Fine Art
The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights.
Sustainable Spectacles
Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles.
The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.
Add new comment