[Source: SportAccord Convention] Recognised as one of the most influential sports business leaders in Los Angeles having played a significant role in bids for almost every major sporting event that has been brought to the region in the last three decades, David Simon, President of the Lost Angeles Sports Council will co-chair CityAccord and City-to-City at the SportAccord Convention in Bangkok, Thailand from 15 – 20 April 2018.
In 1984 LA was the first Olympic Games ever to generate an operating surplus (US$235 million) and the region is eager to repeat this economic achievement in 2028. So how do cities go about selecting the right events and turning them into an outstanding success?
“Making relationships a priority - this year’s theme for CityAccord - is one of the pillars of success when it comes to bidding for and hosting major events. However, in order to achieve great success, selecting the right events is also key and requires clear thinking.
“As a city you need to look at your specific community and determine what is achievable based on your resources: human, financial and physical. Once you've identified these critical factors, forging strong relationships with event stakeholders will help you achieve your vision and deliver successful results. Cities and stakeholders will be able to examine these elements and more during CityAccord.” commented David Simon.
A popular day at SportAccord Convention, CityAccord will take place on Tuesday 17 April 2018 from 14:00 at the Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre. Aimed at cities, regions, sponsors, international sport federations, organising committees and industry, delegates are encouraged to register.
Giles Morgan, HSBC Global Head of Sponsorship & Events of HSBC – Global Financial Organisation, will take part in the CityAccord Interactive Q&A entitled: “How do sponsors determine which sports and events to partner with?” where delegates will have the opportunity to ask sponsors about their approach and choices.
“It is a most timely question and one that will no doubt elicit a wide variety of responses. One thing is for sure – the sponsorship landscape is changing and it’s an incredibly exciting time to be involved. In short, we want our customers and our four key sports – golf, rugby, tennis and cycling – to thrive. We believe the way to achieve this is to invest in our sports through innovation, grass roots, entertainment and much more; by doing this we add value to the sports we sponsor and at the same time deliver spectacular brand experiences for our customers.”
Melanie Duparc Co-ordinator of Smart Cities & Sport Network - an Official Supporter of SportAccord Convention, will also co-chair CityAccord and City-to-City.
Further information can be found on the webpage CityAccord. Watch highlights from last year’s successful #SAC2017 City Day including comments from Melanie Duparc of Smart Cities & Sport, Ben Avison of Host City, as well as the #SAC2017 Convention City Co-Host, Lars Lundov, CEO of Sport Event Denmark. Registration for #SAC2018 is open.
