What does the future of live event venues look like in an era of rapid change and evolving audience expectations? How can associations help their members navigate a shifting events landscape?

In this episode of Associations Thrive, host Joanna Pineda interviews Trevor Mitchell, President and CEO of the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM). Trevor discusses:

• How IAVM represents over 8,000 professionals worldwide who manage venues such as arenas, stadiums, performing arts centers, convention centers, amphitheaters, and fairgrounds.
• The definition of a live event and how IAVM is expanding its definition to include new types of venues, such as megachurches and multi-use entertainment complexes.
• The shift in IAVM’s membership structure from individual to group membership, enabling more professionals across different levels of an organization to join IAVM at a lower cost.
• How IAVM is working to create engagement metrics beyond transactional data, focusing on meaningful participation and professional growth.
• The importance of continuous learning and how Trevor immersed himself in the industry by attending IAVM’s Venue Management School before officially starting as CEO.
• The ongoing success of IAVM’s virtual Town Halls, which started during the pandemic and continue to be a valuable forum for member-led discussions on safety, security, and guest experiences.
• IAVM’s research initiatives, including economic impact studies and benchmarking reports, to help venues understand their market position and improve operations.
• The role of advocacy in the venue management industry, such as working with policymakers on ticketing transparency and sustainability regulations.
• The excitement surrounding IAVM’s 100th Annual Conference and how the organization is using this milestone to rethink its events and offerings.
• Trevor’s vision for the future of IAVM, including a focus on strategic growth, data-driven decision-making, and deeper engagement with industry stakeholders.

References:

• IAVM Website
• Trevor Mitchell's Associations Thrive episode from May 2023 when he was Executive Director of American Mensa