AEO WELCOMES JESS HOCKMAN AS CHAIR AND LAURA SHAPIRO AS VICE CHAIR OF THE DEVELOPMENT BOARD

The Association of Event Organisers (AEO) is pleased to announce Jess Hockman, marketing director at Informa Markets, has stepped into the role of chair of the Development Board, with Laura Shapiro, portfolio director at CloserStill Media, joining as vice chair.

The Development Board serves as a key link between the AEO Board and the Futures Board, focusing on engaging the next generation of event professionals and addressing the challenges of attracting and retaining top talent. This work is crucial to building a sustainable workforce that will future-proof the sector.

Hockman commented: “I am truly honoured to take on the role of chair for the AEO Development Board, following Alison’s incredible leadership. Under her guidance, we’ve made great strides, but there is still more to achieve. I look forward to continuing the work she started, collaborating with Laura and the group to advance our agenda.”

As part of this agenda, the group will champion AEO’s #ChooseEvents campaign, promoting the events industry as a dynamic and rewarding career path. They will also evolve and maintain the AEO Talent Hub, ensuring it remains a valuable resource for members. Through their networks, they will amplify the campaign's message, encouraging young professionals to explore the industry’s diverse opportunities.

Chris Skeith OBE, chief executive officer of AEO, added: "I’d first like to thank Alison Willis for her sterling leadership of the Development Board since its inception in 2016, and thank Jess for stepping up from the role of vice chair. Having worked with both Jess and Laura, I’m confident they will be an unstoppable team. Their leadership and passion for nurturing the next generation will take the Development Board’s work to new heights.”

Hockman will bring her strategic insight and marketing expertise to her role as chair, while Shapiro’s proven track record at CloserStill Media will complement Hockman’s leadership. Together, they aim to drive impactful initiatives that support the future of the events industry.