Host City 2024 Agenda | Host City: The largest meeting of cities and sports, business and cultural events

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Tue 3 Dec Wed 4 Dec 

 * Subject to change

Day 1: Tuesday 3 December 2024
Scottish Event Campus, Glasgow
08:00 Registration, Coffee & Networking
09:00 Welcome & Keynote Addresses
09:30

PANEL 1: Global Trends: Inspiring Action Through Major Events
This panel explores how global trends shape event strategies, and how major events can inspire action globally. From embracing new trends and ensuring safety and resilience to adapting to shifting audience preferences, experts discuss strategies to drive positive change and innovation in event hosting.
10:15

PANEL 2: Activating Major Events with Technology
Technology is revolutionising the way events can be organised, marketed, and experienced. This panel explores how cutting-edge innovations such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and AI can drive efficiency, enhance engagement and leave a lasting impact.
11:00-11:30 Refreshments & Networking
11:30 Keynote Presentation
11:50

PANEL 3: Sustainability Strategies: Making Events the Solution, not the Problem
Inspiring action towards sustainability is essential for the future of events. This panel examines strategies for reducing carbon footprints, minimising waste, and engaging stakeholders in sustainable event management practices to catalyse action towards a greener future. And how can we maximise the benefits of events, to make them even more worthwhile?
12:35 Audience Participation Session
An interactive session where the audience votes on some of the key issues addressed by the conference
12:45 Lunch & networking
GUIDED WORKSHOP DISCUSSION – Topic TBA
14:00

PANEL 4: Social Impact: Harnessing Events for Positive Community Change
Major events and conferences offer platforms to address social issues and drive positive change. This panel showcases examples of events that have successfully leveraged their platforms to advocate for social causes, promote diversity, create employment opportunities and empower communities.
14:35 Presentation
14:45

PANEL 5: The Power, and Changing Nature, of Sponsorship
How is the relationship between rightsholder and sponsor changing, and why? Where do the interests of rightsholders and sponsors align, and how can they work together to address them? What is the real value of sponsorship in major events and how can the impact of purpose-based partnerships be measured and communicated?
15:20 Refreshments & networking break
15:50 PANEL 6: Working Together for Better Event Planning and Delivery
From transport and logistics to operations and security, planning and delivering major events involve an incredibly diverse range of stakeholders. How can rights holders, organisers, suppliers and communities be more joined up in their approach to staging the greatest shows on earth?
16:20 Presentation
16:35 PANEL 7: The Changing Connection between Audiences and Action
How audiences connect with action is changing, both online and in the real world. This panel explores strategies for leveraging traditional and digital media platforms to engage global audiences and maximize exposure, and how technology is revolutionising ticketing processes, improving user experience and combating fraud.
17:10 PANEL 8: Major Cultural and Entertainment Events: Local Meets Global
This panel explores the impact of major cultural and entertainment events on city identity formation and cross-cultural understanding. From film festivals to music concerts and art exhibitions, experts discuss how these events contribute to the enrichment of societies and the promotion of cultural exchange on a global scale
17:45 Day One conference close
18:15-21:30 Civic Reception and Host City Awards
Glasgow City Chambers (Invitation only)

   

Day Two: Wednesday 4 December 2024
08:00 Registration, coffee & networking
09:00 Keynote Address
09:20

PANEL 9: City Development and Event Legacy: Action for Sustainable Growth
Inspiring action towards sustainable city development and event legacies is vital for host cities. This panel discusses strategies for balancing economic benefits with community needs, inspiring action for long-term sustainable growth.
10:05 PANEL 10: International Events in the Americas: Inspiring Global Collaboration
Bringing international events to the Americas requires proactive action and collaboration. This panel explores how American hosts can position themselves as desirable destinations for global events, inspiring action for international collaboration and partnerships with rightsholders and suppliers.
10:40

PANEL 11: Measuring Impact: Metrics and Methodologies for Evaluating Event Success and Legacy
Evaluating the impact of major events goes beyond attendance numbers and economic indicators. This panel explores comprehensive metrics and methodologies for assessing the social, cultural, environmental, and economic impact of events, both during and after their conclusion.
11:15 Morning refreshments & networking break
11:45

PANEL 12: DEI in Event Governance: Inspiring Action for Inclusivity
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are increasingly recognised as essential principles in event management. This panel assesses the progress made in promoting DEI within the industry, as well as the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Which events and hosts are driving best practice in accessibility and neurodiversity?
12:20

PANEL 13: Purposing Venues and Infrastructure for Sustainable Event Hosting
The choice of venues and infrastructure is fundamental to the success of any major event. This panel delves into the critical role that venues and infrastructure play in event planning and execution. From state-of-the-art stadiums to convention centres and temporary structures, experts discuss best practices in venue selection, design, and management to enhance the overall event experience while ensuring safety, accessibility, and sustainability.
12:55 Lunch & networking
WORKSHOP: Future Workforce for the Events Industry
14:00 PANEL 14: Data & Analytics: Creating Actionable Insights
This panel explores the applications of data-driven insights, from enhancing event planning and operations to informing strategic decision-making. Experts delve into the specific challenges faced by major event organising committees, such as limited historical data and compressed timelines, and discuss innovative approaches to leverage available data effectively.
14:35 Presentation: Young Voices
14:45 PANEL 15: Readiness and Learning: Preparing for Success and Leveraging Past Experience
This panel delves into the dual aspects of readiness and learning crucial for event professionals. Experts discuss strategies for preparedness in hosting events, including risk assessment, contingency planning, and infrastructure readiness. Additionally, the panel explores the importance of knowledge transfer from previous event hosts, sharing insights, and lessons learned to enhance future event planning and execution.
15:20 GUIDED WORKSHOP DISCUSSION – Topic TBA
16:00 Conference Close

 

Host City is committed to advancing the Fair Work First criteria, including the real Living Wage and effective voice conditions.