Event Leaders Exchange (ELX) Announces Agenda for Inaugural European Summit in Berlin, Centered on Growth and Embracing Change

This year’s Summit, hosted in partnership with Berlin Marriott Hotel and Visit Berlin, is themed “GROWTH”. Designed exclusively for senior global event leaders, the Summit offers a uniquely tailored experience to explore strategic insights, develop essential skills, and foster impactful relationships.

With guidance from Content Chair Stephen Rose, SVP of Communication Services at Siemens GBS, the Summit will focus on elevating leadership capabilities, scaling team performance, and amplifying event programs. “Stephen’s vision has shaped a dynamic program centered on growth in all its forms,” said Nicola Kastner, CEO of Event Leaders Exchange. “This Summit is a launchpad for leaders aiming to drive transformation within their organizations and across the global events industry.” 

Agenda Highlights 
Reflecting the diverse needs of today’s event leaders, the agenda features an array of session types, including hands-on workshops, curated discussions, and a game-show style, designed to provide actionable insights and collaborative solutions.  

Key sessions include: 

• “It’s Time to Adapt: Creating Meaningful Business Events In Challenging Times” – The event industry is rarely certain about anything, but one thing is for sure as we approach 2025; we need to be ready to grow and adapt amidst global challenges in order to create meaningful events that don’t lose the focus of our business goals.  

Where a large proportion of event planners believe that immersive experiences are the future for engaging attendees, AMEX GBT’s latest industry report tells us that 44% expect more virtual meetings or changes in venues as cost-saving measures in response to economic uncertainties. In short - we have to grow more with less.

As a result, it’s critical that we continue to be adaptable in creating meaningful events that keep us both strategically and conceptually aligned with our organizations' goals and expectations.  But - how can we effectively navigate these challenging times whist remaining sustainable and impactful? How can we develop innovative event elements to enhance experiences? And what will these changes mean for our budgets, technology, diversity goals and event format?  

Join the German Convention Bureau, as they present the findings of the latest Future Meeting Space research initiative. Together, we will explore how business events can truly adapt to the global challenges of our time. 

•“Language of Leadership: A Masterclass in Executive Conversations” – Led by executive coach Gretchen Nemechek of Opinari, this interactive workshop empowers participants with strategies to lead high-stakes discussions with clarity, confidence, and influence. 

•“Moving from Buzzword to Action: Embedding Sustainability in Event Practices” – A thought-provoking session addressing the practical integration of sustainability into event planning, led by Stephen Rose, SVP of Communication Services at Siemens GBS. 

Exclusive Evening Event Hosted by Visit Berlin 
On December 5, participants are also invited to an exclusive evening event, courtesy of visitBerlin, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and networking.

“visitBerlin takes great pride in welcoming the global leaders of the business events industry to our city!” says Marco Oelschlegel, Director Conventions at visitBerlin. “As we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Fall of the Wall on 9th November, Berlin – the city of Freedom -  is the perfect destination for ELX Europe where creative minds come together in liberty to evolve and co-create the future of event management. Together with our partners in Berlin and the German Convention Bureau, we will showcase that Berlin offers this unique combination of both professional event services and open-mindness, cultural extravaganza and a relaxed atmosphere.”

This memorable night begins with a guided tour of Berlin’s historic landmarks, followed by a Glühwein reception and seated dinner at the iconic Clärchens Ballhaus. Guests will also receive a custom-designed graffiti-inspired memento by Berlin artists.

Accommodations and Venue 
The Summit will be held at the Berlin Marriott Hotel, which offers a sophisticated environment for ELX’s exclusive gathering. Renowned for its sophisticated meeting spaces and premium amenities, the Berlin Marriott provides a seamless blend of comfort and innovation, ensuring an ideal setting for senior event leaders to engage, collaborate, and strategize. 

Why Attend? 
This Summit isn’t just another industry event—it’s an exclusive, invitation-only gathering crafted for senior event leaders from the world’s largest organizations. The ELX European Summit presents an unparalleled opportunity for attendees to engage in deep, candid discussions within a trusted, Chatham House Rule-protected environment. This year’s theme of growth is woven through every session, providing tailored insights and strategies that address the unique challenges and opportunities senior event leaders face. 

For more information on the agenda and to request an invitation, please visit the ELX website. 

About Event Leaders Exchange (ELX) 
Event Leaders Exchange (ELX) is an exclusive, member-led community exclusively for senior corporate event leaders at the world’s largest organizations. By fostering collaboration and innovative thinking, ELX drives meaningful change across the industry. For more information, visit https://www.eventleaders.com/.