MPI Forms Task Force to Update Principles of Professionalism for a New Era

In 2024, Meeting Professionals International (MPI) assembled a global task force dedicated to reviewing and updating the organization's Principles of Professionalism. As the world and the meetings and events industry have experienced significant transformation, these changes underscored the importance of revisiting MPI’s guiding principles to ensure they accurately reflect the current landscape of the profession.

The initiative to revise the Principles of Professionalism was spearheaded by the Chapter and Membership Advisory Council (CMAC), a strategic volunteer council that brings forward initiatives on behalf of MPI's members and chapters. CMAC recognized that the post-pandemic association environment, combined with MPI’s growing emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and its commitment to global social causes such as Anti-Human Trafficking, warranted a fresh look at the foundational values that underpin the organization.

The timing was also aligned with broader industry trends. Topics like sustainability, DEI, and ethical responsibility are no longer optional add-ons; they are core expectations in the professional space. The updated principles aim to reflect these evolving priorities, ensuring MPI continues to lead the industry with integrity, intention and inclusiveness.

Diverse Global Representation

The task force comprised 15 individuals representing a diverse cross-section of MPI’s global membership. It was chaired by Anita Carlyle of the Toronto Chapter. Susan Prophet, also from the Toronto Chapter, and Louise Gervais from the Ottawa Chapter also participated in the review and recommendation process. Additionally, members from Europe, Latin America and the United States contributed valuable international perspectives. This global representation was essential in developing principles that are inclusive, culturally aware, and globally relevant.

Collaborative Process

To manage the work efficiently, the task force was divided into smaller working groups, each tasked with reviewing and proposing updates. These contributions formed the basis of the final recommendation submitted to the International Board of Directors (IBOD) for approval.

Key themes emerged throughout the review process, including:

• Maintaining professional integrity and ensuring environments free from harassment or discrimination, regardless of identity or orientation.
• Setting clear expectations and raising the bar for behavior and professionalism in the industry.
• Establishing a shared set of values that inspire trust, foster collaboration, and reflect the heart of the MPI community.
• Creating a safe and respectful space where all members feel empowered to express themselves authentically.
• Holding one another accountable to the highest standards in the profession.
• Leading with intention, purpose and heart in all professional interactions.

The Role of HEAR

A key addition to the updated principles is the inclusion of MPI’s HEAR initiative, which evolved from the former “MPI Cares” program. HEAR (Help, Equity, Action, Resolution) is a powerful expression of MPI’s commitment to compassion, fairness and responsive action within its professional community. HEAR is overseen by an external partner. More information can be found on the MPI website (www.mpiweb.org) under the About MPI/ Resources section.

More Than Guidelines: A Statement of Values

Ultimately, the updated Principles of Professionalism are more than just a list of dos and don'ts. They are a living, breathing reflection of what MPI stands for – a professional community grounded in respect, integrity and shared responsibility. They serve as a compass to guide member behavior, elevate the profession and strengthen the bonds of trust that unite meeting professionals around the world.

With the approval and implementation of the revised document (MPI Principles of Professionalism2024), MPI continues to demonstrate its dedication to evolving with the times while staying anchored to the values that make the organization strong, inclusive and future-focused.

 Article edited by: Darlene Kelly-Stewart, Stonehouse Sales & Marketing Services