ICC Belfast has strengthened its team with the appointment of Jill Houlahan as head of corporate sales, alongside the promotions of Laurel Gray to head of events and Jenni Yau to head of association sales.
Houlahan brings extensive commercial sales experience, while Gray, who has been with ICC Belfast since 2016, offers fresh perspectives to the events industry through her international network and involvement in initiatives such as AIPC Future Shapers.
Jenni Yau, with eight years at the venue and a background in a leading local hotel group, is passionate about the MICE industry and played a key role in securing ICC Belfast’s successful bid to host One Young World in 2023.
This Global Meetings Industry Day (3 April), the appointees discuss some of the emerging trends in the world of large-scale events.
On AI and personalisation, Yau said: “AI is a game-changer in so many sectors, so of course it’s a hot topic in the events industry too. AI offers enhanced personalisation by shaping event experiences around each individual attendee.”
On the rise of in-house capabilities, Houlahan said: “Convention centres hold a unique advantage, offering in-house expertise, specialist skills and cutting-edge technology. By leveraging our strengths in these areas, we can streamline the planning process, collaborate seamlessly and remove unnecessary complexity for organisers.”
On the power of sustainability, Gray said: “Beyond green imperatives, we’re focused on social legacy, and I’ve been fortunate to be part of a leadership development programme for schoolgirls called SistersIN, of which we’re a founding partner.”
On bleisure and incentives, Houlahan added: “It’s really important to bring people to Belfast—not just to see the city, but to truly experience it. It still surprises and delights us to hear delegates talk about Northern Ireland’s hospitality and the warmth of our welcome, which, they say, is like no other place on earth.”
Image: (Left to Right): Jill Houlahan, head of corporate sales, Jenni Yau, head of association sales, Laurel Gray, head of events
