The Advisory Board was created to contribute to the success of isla’s primary aim of supporting the events sector’s transition to a more sustainable future. The expansion of the board will provide insights and sentiments from across a variety of sector and stakeholder groups and organisations, driving increased collaboration.

isla is engaged with initiatives and groups from outside the industry, from UK Government department BEIS’ SME Net Zero working group to relationships with organisations like Zero Carbon Forum. 

CEO & co-founder Anna Abdelnoor comments: “Collaboration is fundamental to ensure a common vision as we advance our industry. We want to create an inclusive, representative and committed Advisory Board to enable us to better inform, and accelerate, the work we’ve achieved since our launch in September 2020. 

“Make no mistake, we’re in a race against the clock. We know aligned action is paramount to success, and this is the reason we are here. We know climate, we know events. We’re here to save time and make the transition for the industry easier and our Advisory Board will play a fundamental role in that journey.”

Jason Megson, MD of Freeman EMEA – incoming Chair, says: “From its inception, isla has been underpinned by a commitment to collaborate. As the organisation has grown in influence and impact it’s only right that we continue to leverage our industry-wide membership through a natural evolution of the advisory board’s role and remit.” 

Russ Lidstone, CEO of The Creative Engagement Group – outgoing Chair comments: “It’s a great privilege to have been involved with isla since its inception, both as a founder agency member and Chair of the Advisory Board. Whilst I’m stepping away from my role with the advisory board, I look forward to continuing to support Anna and her brilliant team from the sidelines, as they increase their impact and continue to build positive momentum.”

The call for nominations comes as isla embarks on several key activities during Climate Action Week (27th June – 3rd July), including holding its Member Forum, and its first Venue Forum, both taking place at ExCeL London, alongside Reset Connect, an official Climate Action Week event, which is using isla’s TRACE to measure its own carbon footprint and climate impact. isla is the official sustainability partner to The Meetings Show, where they will be exhibiting on Stand C82. isla will also attend Reset Connect on Stand S4, June 29th – 30th, both taking place at ExCeL London.