Aoife Kearns, International Corporate Account Manager tells IIBN that the Convention Centre Dublin (The CCD), was developed to provide a world-class conference venue in the heart of the capital. Our vision is to be ‘the world’s favourite venue, experts in delivering world class events. We set the standard for excellence, creating memories and experiences worth sharing’.
Standing proudly in the finance and technology hub of the city, The CCD is ideally positioned to entice the international business tourism market. We continue to position Ireland on the world stage for conferences, congresses and events. We strive to offer a world-class venue in every sense, from the quality of the facility, through to every aspect of our service. Our aim is to offer everyone who visits The CCD an unrivalled event experience.
Each business tourist is worth an average of €1,600 to the local economy, as they spend money on hotels, taxis, dining out, entertainment, cultural experiences and tourist attractions. Events held at The CCD attract these business tourists and therefore help to generate significant revenue for the Irish economy.
What are your main priorities and goals in your role?
As an International Account Manager, my priorities and goals are to showcase Dublin and The CCD as a world-class destination for business and international conferences.
What are your biggest challenges?
It has already been noted that bedroom shortages are a challenge in Dublin, but it is encouraging to see the development of hotels across the city. We continue to work with our strategic partners as part of Team Ireland to increase business tourism to Ireland.
What are the challenges facing your industry going forward?
Geopolitical uncertainty is, indeed, a challenge for our industry at the moment, as it is for all industries.
What new trends are emerging in your industry?
Sustainability has always played a role in our industry and we are noticing now, more than ever, that it is as a priority for event organisers and delegates, for example, a move towards more sustainable food offerings, etc. We are also seeing a much greater emphasis on collaboration and face to face networking at events.
How do you define success and what drives you to succeed?
For me what defines success is the road you took to get there.
In my current role what drives me to succeed is being part of a team whose purpose is to deliver world class events that also have a significant impact on our local economy.
What’s the best advice you’ve been given, or would give, in business?
Be yourself, because it shows when you’re not.
What have been your highlights in business over the past year?
2019 has been a great year and there have been many highlights, but the one that stands out more for me was securing a large international conference for Dublin in 2021, which will generate over €1 million for the Irish economy.
