beam, the UK trade association for the business events, accommodation, and meetings industry, has officially appointed its 2025 Chair and Vice Chair following a successful year of growth and transformation.
At the Gala Dinner on Friday, 7th February, at The Grand Birmingham, Julie Shorrock, Managing Director of HTS and outgoing beam Chair, formally handed over the position to Louisa Watson, Director of Marketing at Wyboston Lakes. David Tremmil, Managing Director of Inloco Events and Vice Chair of UKEVENTS was named Vice Chair.
The sell-out Gala Dinner welcomed over 200 industry leaders, government ministers, and VIPs to celebrate beam’s achievements, network, and raise funds for Meetings Needs.
Reflecting on her tenure, Julie Shorrock highlighted several key milestones that have redefined beam’s industry presence and impact. Over the past year, beam has significantly strengthened its industry recognition, with growing awareness of its influence and contributions.
The board has expanded to 14 members, including introducing a Vice Chair position, enabling beam to enhance its decision-making capabilities and drive its strategic initiatives.
Additionally, beam has hosted several high-profile industry events; The State of the Nation event at Cliveden House set a precedent for collaboration with key industry stakeholders, the Summer Forum in Blackpool enabled industry discussions on key trends, the cornerstone All Members Meetings at Ashridge House and Kettering Park saw record attendance, demonstrating the association’s strengthened engagement and influence.
In January 2024, beam became the first Corporate Group Member of the APPG, signifying a key step towards greater collaboration with government ministers and a significant development in beam’s advocacy efforts, reinforcing its commitment to shaping policy and driving positive industry change.
Julie Shorrock, Outgoing Chair, commented: “The last year has been transformative for beam. We’ve made incredible strides in raising our profile, strengthening partnerships, and setting the foundation for further growth. I am immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished and want to thank our members, partners, and the board for their passion and commitment. With Louisa and David now at the helm, I’m confident beam will continue to thrive for our industry and members.”
Incoming Chair Louisa Watson is eager to build on this momentum: “I’m honoured to step into this role at such an exciting time for beam. In 2024, we demonstrated the power of collaboration and advocacy. Through continued engagement with government via the APPG Corporate Membership and strategic industry partnerships, we will amplify our collective influence and create even greater opportunities for our members.”
Notes to editors:
beam is a leading association representing businesses within the events, accommodation, and meetings industry. Acting as a collective voice for its members, beam is dedicated to promoting best practices, developing education and innovation, and championing positive change across the sector. Through its initiatives, beam provides a platform for collaboration, advocacy, and professional growth, ensuring its members remain at the forefront of industry developments.
beam-org.uk/
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