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Neil ThompsonThe Meetings Industry Association (MIA) reflected on a year of growth, influence and industry leadership at its AGM held this week.
Opening its 35th annual general meeting, MIA Chair Charles Sargeant celebrated the association’s expanding membership, new initiatives and strengthened government engagement, as the association reinforced its commitment to supporting the UK business meetings and events sector.
He highlighted the MIA’s position “at the forefront of change” and its increasing influence at government level, with regular engagements with the Department for Culture, Media & Sport reflecting progress in its efforts for greater sector recognition.
Membership growth remained strong as the MIA confirmed its rise to 671 members. This comes as the association welcomed 67 new members last financial year, including new group members Leonardo Hotels, Castlebridge Hospitality, Q Hotels, BGAM, Melia Hotels and Jumeirah.
Peer-to-peer groups have also expanded over the last 12 months, now covering all key areas of the business meetings and events sector. These provide a collaborative platform to address industry challenges and opportunities with focus groups on Destinations, Academic venues, Large Venues, Identity, Meetings Intelligence, ESG, Instant Book, Stadia, Student Membership, Next Gen and Hotel Groups.
In June 2024, the MIA launched a new brand identity, reflecting the evolution of its mission, vision and values. The MIA brand “celebrates collaboration, networking and the fostering of positive relationships, reflecting our commitment to supporting and bringing people together,” said Sargeant.
The new brand was developed and implemented under the leadership of then-CEO Kerrin MacPhie, who the MIA Chair praised for her impact during her three-year tenure. This included her work producing a step-by-step roadmap to help the sector navigate the forthcoming Martyn’s Law.
Following MacPhie’s departure at the end of 2024, Sargeant shared his excitement to welcome Shonali Devereaux as the new CEO of the association.
Addressing members, Devereaux outlined her vision for the MIA, which aspires to “create a "meaningful and lasting impact for everyone in the industry.”
“With the support of our dedicated team, we will continue to develop initiatives that deliver exceptional value, strengthen industry connections, and ensure the MIA remains the leading voice for business meetings and events, Devereaux said.
Concluding the AGM was the appointment of the mia board for 2025/2026. Andrew Mosley of Andrew Mosely Hospitality takes over as chair from Charles Seargent, who becomes Past Chair. Martin Stephens of Off Limits becomes Vice Chair, while Barry Cope of ACC Liverpool retains the title of treasurer and Kevin Breeze of Northampton Saints remains as company secretary.
Other board members for 2025/26 include:
Allan Boyle, NEC Group Conventions
Jessica Southworth, Hotel Football
Jo Austin, Lime Venue Portfolio
Jon Kelly, Meet & Potato
Justine Meek, Warwick Conferences
Luis Desouza, NFS Technology Group
Manju Goel, Park Plaza Hotel Group
Martin Stephens, Off Limits
Neil Thompson, The Delegate Wranglers
Nicky Harding, Meet Devon
Robert Kenward, Jigsaw Talent Solutions
Samantha Van Leeuwen, PwC
Sarah Franczak, Central Hall Venues
Steve Jones, Wyboston Lakes Resort
