One of the key things is dealing with professionals who are passionate about what they do, in the majority of cases it’s not just a job but a passion. The work they do makes a real positive impact on the lives of people and their outcomes. They are keen to share their knowledge and remain at the cutting edge of innovations in surgery and rehabilitation

We are a family business and that’s what we think makes a difference, like many healthcare professionals, it’s not just a job it’s our business, when you call us, someone answers the phone – there’s no phone menu or AI bot, just real people who are there to help.

30 years ago, confirmations and marketing were all done by post or fax! Presentations were on 35mm slides. The digital age has transformed the way things work, and the speed people expect responses is much faster.

We work with the convenors, who decide on the clinical content of the meeting as they are the experts, often they want to squeeze as much content into a day as possible, we often advise that less is more- make more time for discussion. We always ask for feedback so we can improve and adapt the meeting to be the best possible experience for the delegate. 

We work closely with the convenors and sponsors of the meetings when the agenda is being set to ensure the latest innovations and relevant topics are included in the meeting, this can include new product zones, demonstrations and practical breakout sessions. 

From the initial idea, we involve medical societies and clinicians in developing the framework for the program, this includes the inclusion of valuable networking and sponsor breakout sessions into the program. The clinical content is obviously decided by the medical professionals. Being accredited by the Royal College of Surgeons of England is also a real benefit as were are able to seek advice on the key areas of interest.

This is often a delicate balance. Sponsors are fully aware that commercial presentations by their own sales / marketing staff don’t work or create interest with the delegates, that’s why when we have sponsored breakout sessions the topics are educational and are presented by clinicians who have data and outcomes to back up their presentations. 

In 2024 We had a venue booked for a 3-day conference for 250 delegates. 

Two weeks prior to the meeting we received an email saying the venue was no longer available but couldn’t tell us why! Eventually we discovered it was chosen at the location for the leader’s election debate on national TV, as the Prime Minister and opposition leaders were there, security meant no access to the building.

Fortunately, we worked with the venue and managed to agree access from 05:00hrs the morning of the event, stage sets had to be constructed, registration set up and exhibitor stands be completed by 08:00am – with careful planning and the goodwill of our partners we managed it!

More use of digital platforms / apps for delegates to access content, book places and refer to. We have just introduced a new free membership portal on our new website for health professionals where they can view recordings of meetings they have attended, download receipts and their CPD certificates. We are in the process of developing a new app to provide further engagement for both delegates and exhibitors.

Don’t spend your day sat behind a keyboard, face to face communication where possible is key. Health professionals don’t work a typical 9-5 day so you need to be prepared to work unusual hours, despite it’s very rewarding working in an area that is dedicated to improving people lives and we are privileged to be a part of it.