Why did you choose a career in events management?

What’s your favourite part of running events at HIA?

Rebecca: Definitely, collaboration with my team and members – I love my team! We work closely together to bring our visions to life. We make sure we engage with members throughout the process to make sure we know what they want. But mostly, I love the events themselves. To see attendees gain knowledge, celebrate wins, and grow relationships gives me fulfilment.

Olivia: I’ve stuck with events for almost six years because they’re so rewarding to be able to provide an opportunity for like-minded people to get together – to learn, to have fun and to grow their communities. I also love getting to know the members, hearing their stories, and even being able to learn from them.

Lisa: Every event is different, offering a new challenge. Growing the awards program and building relationships through attendance numbers and partnership is one aspect I’ve enjoyed. It’s a rewarding role to see how much our members and those who go on to become members benefit from attending our events. It’s exciting to deliver better events each year.

What do you focus on when leading up to an event?

Rebecca: Primarily, I ensure all aspects run smoothly. This includes carefully planning the flow of the event and anticipating and proactively mitigating any potential risks or issues that may arise. Most importantly, I ensure that key stakeholders and attendees have a positive experience from beginning to end. Addressing these critical areas during the preparation phase sets a solid foundation for a successful and seamless event execution.

Olivia: On the organisational front, I focus on proofing everything – here’s my love of detail again! – from the presentation and run sheet to the program itself. In the future, spending more time promoting my events on social media to drive interest is my goal.

Lisa: While getting the details right is essential, I like ensuring the event experience surpasses expectations! Our members should be able to participate, build relationships and learn or be inspired for themselves and their businesses.

Any tips for members who are deciding whether to attend an event?

Rebecca: Consider the valuable opportunities it presents for personal and professional growth. From gaining new knowledge and skills to expanding your network and connecting with industry experts, attending the event can be a rewarding experience. Participating can help you become part of a supportive community of likeminded individuals, fostering connections that can lead to future collaborations and meaningful relationships.

Olivia: After all, you won’t know til you try it! There’s something for everybody. Whether you want to learn, grow your network, or catch up with industry friends, you can do any or all of that at a HIA event. The choice is yours.

Lisa: It’s a great opportunity for them to make new connections and be part of a community. Being a builder day-in day-out can be challenging and often lonely. One day out of the ordinary can be inspiring. Meeting new people and bouncing off ideas and thoughts can benefit you and your business.

Community at the core

'Building can be a very lonely, isolated business. Our events are an important way HIA can be there for members as their business partner and champion. They’re a chance to learn, strengthen relationships and create new ones. In an era of digital connections, people desire a sense of belonging more than ever; to feel part of something inspiring. We aim to create moments and spaces with our events that can take attendees away from their everyday and come together as a passionate, proud community.'

Angie Leben, HIA General Manager of Events.

What our members have to say