Over the course of the CN 30underThirty programme, Conference News will be speaking to members of the programme about their professional journey and the causes they’re championing to shape a more inclusive, forward-thinking industry.
This week, meet James Lee, senior event project manager at Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining (IOM3). In this interview Lee discusses, learning to ask for help, thriving in fast paced environment and the importance of events being held accountable for their impact.
What made you want to get involved in the industry and why?
I fell into events almost by accident but quickly realised how naturally it aligned with my strengths: organisation, creativity, communication, and above all, connection. I love bringing people together to share knowledge, spark ideas and drive innovation, and I found a real sense of purpose in curating spaces where that can happen. Conferences may seem logistical on the surface, but behind every name badge and delegate pack is an opportunity to shape industries and communities.
What is the first career highlight that comes to mind?
Being named one of CN’s 30underThirty was a real pinch-me-on-the-cheek moment. Not only because of the recognition but because it made me stop and reflect on just how much I have achieved in a relatively short time — from leading events on complex, technical topics, to leading a digital transformation project on our IOM3 conference app, to speaking on panels and being elected onto the ABPCO Executive. That award was a moment of pause and pride in what’s still a growing journey.
What is the biggest challenge you have overcome?
Learning to ask for and accepting help – ever since a child and all the way up to the formative years of my career, I have got used to fighting my own corner and being self-sufficient. It took me a while to learn to trust and rely on other people, whether they be colleagues or counterparts in the industry. But having been exposed to the event industry more through events like Confex, The Meeting Shows and Event Tech Live, as well as other fam trips, I truly now realise how powerful those networks can be. I look forward to catching up with friends in the industry and making new ones along the way because of this.
What have you learned about yourself since entering the events world?
That I thrive in fast-paced, high-stakes environments — and that I can be both highly creative, laser-focussed and organised at the same time! I’ve also learned that my values (like integrity, impact, and inclusion) are strengths in this field, not soft skills.
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice when starting out in events, what would it be?
Stop trying to fit in. The things that make you different are exactly what will make you stand out. Trust your voice, say yes to opportunities even if you feel nervous, and remember that confidence comes from doing, not waiting.
How important are schemes such as CN 30under30 and do you believe the industry does enough to support young professionals?
Initiatives like CN 30underThirty are essential. They don’t just celebrate individuals — they create visibility, community, and momentum. But there’s more to be done. Young professionals need mentorship, access, and trust – not just a trophy, even though they are great. We need organisations and senior teams to listen, involve us in strategic conversations, and actively invest in our development.
How do you see the events industry changing over the next five years, and how do you want to be part of that change?
The industry is rightly under pressure to be more sustainable, inclusive, and outcomes-driven, not just putting on a show. I want to be part of the shift from events as gatherings to events as vehicles for impact. That means using data better, designing for accessibility and equity, and making sure our events serve more than just the people in the room. I want to be someone who keeps asking the hard questions and helping build better systems to answer them.
What kind of legacy do you hope to leave in the industry?
I hope to be remembered as someone who created meaningful change, whether that’s reducing the carbon footprint of a flagship event, helping young organisers find a cohort of their own people to build a stronger network to thrive in, or championing spaces to be inclusive and joyful. My legacy, I hope, will be events with integrity — and an industry culture where authenticity is welcome.
What is an issue or topic within the industry that you think is important and want to champion? Can you explain a bit about it?
Sustainability and impact measurement – not just in environmental terms, but social too. We talk a lot about making a difference, but often we don’t define or measure what that looks like. I believe events should be accountable for their impact, i.e. carbon, community, and beyond.
Why is this particular issue or topic important to you?
Because I work in a professional and scientific environment, I see the disconnect between how much we talk about sustainability and how little is often done. Events have enormous footprints – and enormous potential. If we don’t take responsibility now, we lose credibility and relevance.
What do you plan to do to continue to champion this topic?
At IOM3, we have already started tracking delegate carbon footprints and working with suppliers to reduce waste and emissions. I plan to continue working on evolving our sustainability reporting, sharing best practice, and mentoring others on how to embed impact measurement early in the event design process.
What can the industry itself do to better champion this topic?
Firstly, make sustainability non-negotiable – not an extra or nice to have. Secondly, invest in tools and training that make measurement easier and more meaningful. And thirdly, share knowledge — we need open-source playbooks, honest conversations, and collective pressure to shift norms.
The CN 30underThirty is a 12-month programme that recognises and supports young talent from the conference and meetings industry. Find out more about the CN 30 under 30 class of 2025 here.
