ACE - Association for Conferences and Events

New Categories at the 2012 Conference Awards

Launched in 2010, The Conference Awards have already become the event for the conference and event sector in the UK. The 2012 event promises even more: hosted by Nick Hewer, he of the withering look from The Apprentice, and taking place at The Brewery on Friday 15th June 2012, this high profile ceremony will reward and recognise the best of the best from across all sectors of the industry.

"Our continued research with conference companies and associations has highlighted a demand for organizations to showcase their sector specific events which is why new categories for 2012 feature Best Finance, Telecoms, Life Science and Energy Conferences" said Claire Wormsley, one of the founders of the awards. "These new categories will give further opportunities for individuals and companies to recognise the stars in their midst"

Entries and attendees for 2010 and 2011 exceeded expectations and 2012 promises to be even more competitive. The deadline for entries is 24th February 2012 and there are twenty separate categories all designed to attract entries from the very best events, teams and suppliers.

"There is a huge amount of talent across all parts of the events industry," added the event's director Rory Ross Russell. "Which is why this year we have introduced categories that are specifically targeted for the back-room functions that make organisations stand out from their competition. How sponsors, delegates and partners are treated at all stages of their interaction with the organiser is incredibly important. We are looking forward to rewarding the marketing, operations and customer service stars who deliver impeccable attendee experiences."

While there are new features to the Awards, one consistent factor is the support of the event's partners. Sponsors such as Hiscox are returning once again to put their brand behind the Awards.

"The Conference Awards 2011 was the best networking event I have ever attended in terms of new business contacts: I took eight enquiries and have another 20–30 contacts to follow up. Sponsorship of the Conference Awards 2011 will deliver the best ROI we have so far achieved in 2011" commented

Mark Gorgon, Director Global Sales, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts after the 2011 ceremony.

Winners at the 2012 event will join an exclusive alumni that includes: Green Power Conferences; The Eventful Group; Institute of Fundraising; Emap ; Terrapinn; One Moorgate Place; Guardian News and Media; GSMA; ExCeL London; Financial Times; Incisive Media; George P Johnson; Informa Telecoms & Media; UBM Conferences; Neil Stewart Associates; Manchester Central Convention Complex; UBM; Brandfuel; Concerto Live; CSquared Communications.

Places at the event are limited, therefore early booking is advised.