beam announces new chair and vice-chair at Birmingham Gala event

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beam, the UK trade association for the business events, accommodation, and meetings industry, has officially appointed its 2025 chair and vice-chair following a successful year of growth and transformation.

At the association’s Gala Dinner on 7 February, at The Grand Birmingham, Julie Shorrock, managing director of HTS and outgoing beam chair, formally handed over the position to Louisa Watson, marketing director and sustainability lead at Wyboston Lakes Resort. David Tremmil, managing director of Inloco Events and vice-chair of UKEvents was named the association’s vice-chair.

The Gala Dinner welcomed over 240 industry leaders, government ministers, and VIPs to celebrate beam’s achievements, network, and raise £4,560 for Meeting Needs.

Reflecting on her tenure, Julie Shorrock highlighted some key milestones including the board expanding to 13 members introducing a vice-chair position.

Additionally, high-profile industry events hosted by beam over the past year include The State of the Nation event at Cliveden House which set a precedent for collaboration with key industry stakeholders, the Summer Forum in Blackpool which enabled industry discussions on key trends, and the All Members Meetings at Ashridge House and Kettering Park which saw record attendance.

In January 2024, beam became the first Corporate Group Member of the APPG, signifying a key step towards greater collaboration with government ministers and a significant development in beam’s advocacy efforts, reinforcing its commitment to shaping policy.

Julie Shorrock, outgoing chair, commented: “The last year has been transformative for beam. We’ve made incredible strides in raising our profile, strengthening partnerships, and setting the foundation for further growth… With Louisa and David now at the helm, I’m confident beam will continue to thrive for our industry and members.”

Incoming chair Louisa Watson said: “I’m honoured to step into this role at such an exciting time for beam. In 2024, we demonstrated the true power of collaboration and advocacy, and in 2025, this will remain my key focus… Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do, and by sharing key learnings, championing best practices, and building even stronger connections, we will empower ourselves with the insights and influence needed to shape the future of our industry.”

Check out next month’s issue of CMW/CN for our exclusive interview with Louisa Watson.

Photo: Louisa Watson on stage

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Drapers Hall
Drapers Hall