Henley academic gives keynote speech at Global CEO Summit

Professor Moira Clark, Director of The Henley Centre for Customer Management, was invited by the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI) to give the keynote speech at its annual Global CEO Summit held in Rome on 5-7 February.

Professor Clark addressed 100 senior executives from international exhibition organisers and venue operators on how to respond to customer led challenges, and how customer-centricity drives the business bottom line.

The invitation-only event included expert speakers about the economy as well insights from research about the expectations and behaviour of exhibitors and customers from around the world.

As part of the conference the delegates had a rare opportunity to meet His Holiness Pope Francis when they were invited to visit the Vatican for a special session on the importance of exhibitions and the role they play in the economic development of countries.

Professor Moira Clark with His Holiness Pope Francis.

As part of his address, Pope Francis said: “as leaders in the exhibition and trade fair industry, you are gathering here not merely as professional organisers but because you seek through your work to contribute to a more just and humane global economy”.

“Fairs and exhibitions not only have positive effects on regional economies and labour markets, but also offer significant opportunities for showcasing to the wider world the rich diversity and beauty of local cultures and ecosystems."