CONTENTSFebruary 2012 . www.conference-news.co.uk . 5 Contents46 City focus: London How can the industry take advantage of the capital's busiest year? 64 City focus: Hull Hull is investing in the UK association meetings market.69 Perception v reality Extracts from one of the White Papers produced by MPI: dealing with the issue of low perception of return on investment.Features20 Confex preview Jonny Sullens lifts the curtain on what we can expect at this year's show.31 Virtual world Everything you need to know about virtual events.39 HBAA Forum The lastest forum focuses on agency prospects for 2012 and meetings technology.54 Coastal venues Seaside resorts are back in business.57 A day in the life of... Group Operations Director at the Jockey Club Racecourses74 Big interview: David Evans MBE The story of Grass Roots from the horse's mouth.81 Spotlight on an organiser Accomplished Events' Directors tell their story.85 Motivation Andy Edwards shares his equation for winning business.Regulars7 Editor's Note 'God fi nally caught his eye'.8 News Ocean Media acquired by former owners, Big:group recruits.18 Livewire What's buzzing in the business?36 Top tips Maximising conference facetime.97 People Tracking the latest appointments and promotions.99 Business Top Banana's top turnover, bad debts in the Belfry, record turnover for P&MM, silver invetsment in people. 101 Have Your Say Church House Conference Centre's GM Robin parker on second chances in events and CN's pick of top tweets.104 Gallery HBAA Annual Dinner and the World Travel Awards 2012.106 Breakout Industry tips on leaving a lasting impression with venue fi nders and agents. Contributors91 Richard John Richard John spares a thought for the introverted presenter.95 Rob Davidson Rob Davidson says conferences can seriously damage your waistline.

For further information and to book your tour of the facilitiescall 020 7361 2220 or email hall-let@rbkc.gov.uk www.rbkc.gov.uk/venuesThe Royal Borough of Kensington and ChelseaConference and Events Team is at your service. [11-163] RBKC Conference News 188 x 114_Layout 1 13/07/2011 14:36 Page 1