The Association of Event Venues (AEV) has, today, announced keynote speaker Alexandra Forsyth will open the AEV annual conference at ICC, Olympia in London on Thursday 26 November 2026.
Alexandra Forsyth is an engaging host and human-performance expert exploring leadership, resilience, performance culture and sustainable ambition in an age of AI transformation.
Her session “Leading in an AI world: why human leadership matters more than ever” will demonstrate how AI is reshaping industry and the leadership capabilities that build trust, navigate uncertainty and help people perform at their best remain distinctly human.
Rachel Parker, CEO, AEV, commented, “We are really excited to welcome Alexandra. She is known for her powerful storytelling, and her expertise fits perfectly with this year’s theme ‘THE HUMAN ADVANTAGE. Why people matter more in an AI world.’”
Stephan Forseilles, CTO, Easyfairs, will present the second session “AI in Action” taking a practical look at where AI is already delivering value in venue operations today and where the technology still needs human involvement, highlighting what AI frees people up to do better.
Relevant to event industry professionals, the programme for the tenth annual AEV conference is packed with insightful sessions on transforming the event experience, safety, keeping the bigger picture in mind, and leading with humanity. The full programme is now available on the AEV conference website.
Parker added, “This year’s practical programme is acknowledging that AI is changing how events are planned, sold, staffed and run but the moments people remember are made by people, not systems. That is the human advantage.”
Booking is now open, offering an early bird rate until Friday 30 October 2026.
Tickets include entry to the icebreaker event on Wednesday 25 November 2026 at The Addison, Olympia, London where delegates can enjoy food, entertainment and refreshments with colleagues old and new prior to the main event.
Members and guest delegates can book and find out more by visiting https://www.aevconference.org.uk.
Author: Sam Hyland
Sam is the assistant content manager for Event Industry News (EIN). Sam is involved in publishing news stories, videos and podcasts. Sam also collates the latest stories for the EIN e-newsletter. If you have a press release or story you think we might be interested to know about please email features@eventindustrynews.com
