The Alliance of Independent Event Agencies (AIEA) has confirmed Kerry Walsh (pictured) as its new chair.
Walsh, who is managing director of Rutland-based, Hatch Events, has taken over from Paula Kelsey of Cloud 9 Event Management, who has completed her two years stint.
Chris Walls from Events2, has been elected vice chair.
The AIEA says it has seen growth in its membership, now representing 85 agencies across the UK.
Walsh said she hoped 2021 would be “a much better year” thanks to the news of multiple vaccines now available. She added: “…new skills honed during lockdown, pent up demand for events from our clients, creativity of our industry, resilience of people in our industry are but a few of the reasons why as an Alliance we should be full of hope for the not-too-distant future.
“We will continue to remind our members the value we provide to those we serve and why what we do matters to others. Our Industry has weathered disruptions in the past. Working collaboratively, we will weather this, too.”
Walls agreed that 2020 was a challenging year for everybody. He said: “It was extremely gratifying and dare I say, heart-warming, to see the principals of our agency members coming together, sharing knowledge and information and actually helping each other through the unprecedented situation.
“As we enter 2021, the challenges will continue to be immense but at the same time the rewards could potentially bear significant fruit for those that are best prepared. Time and time again our membership has shown resilience and commitment and I look forward to help rebuild the foundations of their businesses as we move forward into the future. These are very exciting times and together we will be stronger and capitalise on our collective strength.”
The AIEA said it believes that the appetite for live events and personal interaction will be in huge demand once the pandemic subsides.
