Singapore association "refines" strategy

Janet Tan-Collis, CEO of East West Planners (below right), has been elected president of the Singapore Association of Convention Exhibition Organisers Suppliers (Saceos). An incentive travel business owner, she is the first non-exhibition and convention professional to head the association.

Saceos will be ‘refining and defining’ the meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions landscape as it strives to be more sustainable.

Tan-Collis says: “Our strategies are two-pronged: to build a talent pool and expand our business network. We will nurture and mentor young talent, our next line of MICE leaders for Singapore. We also want to integrate the host of ancillary service providers who have always supported our business.”

Involving service providers in various activities is expected to increase opportunities for business exchange and learning within the MICE industry and strengthen its value chain.

Meanwhile, the Singapore Tourism Board has seconded Lilian Kuan to Saceos as executive director. Previously STB’s assistant director, capability and innovation, Kwan will catalyse major projects for the industry in talent development, industry relations and business development.

“We have to start tackling the manpower and talent retention crunch,” says Kuan. “These strategies will inject fresh pools of potential MICE talent, while raising career development and professional standards among existing MICE talent.”

Corporate communications veteran Yeow Mei Sin has joined Saceos as director marketing communications. The leadership changes and new directions were announced at the third Singapore MICE Forum at Sands Expo and Convention Centre on July 18. The conference drew 189 delegates, 20 per cent from overseas.

Singapore association "refines" strategy