IBTM World has revealed the themes and speakers for its 2025 Association Leaders Forum, which gathers together senior association professionals to explore bold, practical solutions to today’s most pressing challenges.

Designed in partnership with ESAE (European Society of Association Executives), this year’s Association Leaders Forum examines the role of Association events in building strong communities, with a focus on the key role of strategic thinking to engage delegates and energize teams.

Taking place on day one of IBTM World, the forum will offer a full and interactive program of provocative debates, real-world case studies, and expert insights on AI, sustainable destinations, event innovation, impact, and technology.

Speakers will include Sven Bossu, CEO, AIPC (International Association of Convention Centres) ; Amy Hissrich, vice-president of International Affairs, ASAE (American Society of Association Executives); Angela Guillemet, executive director, INCON; and Stylianos Filopoulos, CEO, Association by Design. The day will combine education and networking sessions.

“Our Association Leaders Forum has evolved since its inception in 2022 to become the go-to yearly meeting point for association professionals,” said Claudia Hall, exhibition director, IBTM World. “With a packed program of topical and engaging sessions designed in partnership with the prestigious ESAE, our forum is the platform for association leaders to exchange ideas, learn, and advance knowledge and best practice. It offers a crucial peer-to-peer setting that supports the sector’s advancement, and future prosperity.”

Liesbeth Switten, vice-president, ESAE, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with IBTM World on its Association Leaders Forum for the third year running. As a key date in the global events calendar, it is the ideal setting for Association professionals to come together to discuss the important topics shaping the future of the industry. We have an inspiring and thought-provoking program planned for this year and we look forward to welcoming some of the leading voices in the Association sector.”

IBTM World will run November 18-20, 2025 at Fira Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.  For more information visit: https://www.ibtmworld.com/en-gb.html.