MPI UK & IRELAND LEADERSHIP TEAM
The UK & Ireland Chapter of Meeting Professionals International has counted on its members to step forward and fill leadership roles. We are proud of our leadership team and thank them for their time and expertise. They work hard to provide current industry news, quality events and networking sessions, a diversity of meeting sites, membership information and benefits, as well as keep an eye toward the future.
Contact Details: president@mpiuki.org
BRIAN HAND
President
Brian is the Founder of Eventcomms Agency, a global event and conference management company based in Dublin, Ireland. Since launching in 2021, Brian has led the agency with a client-first approach, delivering high-impact experiences for global corporate clients. With a strong focus on strategy, planning, and onsite excellence, Brian brings calm, clarity, and creativity to every project.
Brian has served on the board on MPI since 2019 and is excited to bolster his leadership skills as President of the Chapter in 2025.
OLIVIA BREENE
President-Elect
Meet Olivia, the vibrant and energetic President-Elect of the MPI UK & Ireland Chapter. Known for her passion and relentless work ethic, Olivia is dedicated to engaging authentically with clients, members, and audiences, fostering lasting relationships that drive loyalty and growth success. She is all about the human-to-human connection! Olivia has served on the MPI board for over four years, holding roles that included VP marketing, partnerships, events, and strategy.
As the founder of Lateralus B, she specialises in redefining possibilities by leveraging her expertise in commercial dynamics, marketing, event experiences, and sales strategies. With a focus on breaking the mold, Olivia fosters innovative ecosystems that future-proof businesses. Through new perspectives and lateral thinking, she empowers leadership teams to unlock untapped potential and drive positive growth for business and for their clients.
In her role with MPI UK & Ireland, Olivia enhances community interaction, builds strategic partnerships, and advocates for professional development. She also serves on the MPI European Council for the MPI Foundation, advancing its goals across Europe.
Additionally, as Co-Chairperson of Maree Oranmore FC, Olivia implements strategies that boost club visibility and foster inclusivity. With 25 years of diverse experience working with some of the world's leading brands, she excels at identifying growth opportunities and crafting dynamic strategies for brand development and client engagement.
CATHY JOYCE
Past President
Global Sales MICE Specialist with 20+ years’ experience in Hospitality with renowned Hotels and brands across Ireland, UK and The Middle East, Including Marriott Hotels International, Ritz-Carlton, Minor Hotels – Anantara Hotels & Resorts, Melia Hotels International and Hyatt Hotels & Resorts.
My role is mainly responsible for delivering the UK MICE market to destinations globally. I understand the unique needs and requirements of clients in the MICE Sector, and I work tirelessly to provide customized solutions that exceed client expectations. Building and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders, such as event planners, corporate clients, DMC, tourist boards and travel agencies is a crucial part of my job. By collaborating closely with these partners, I ensure the seamless execution of MICE programs and maximise revenue opportunities. I'm extremely passionate about creating and delivering amazing event experiences and have developed strong relationships with MICE planners globally built on trust and respect. I love to travel and have extensive knowledge and experience working with client's to understand their needs and match their events in perfect destinations around the globe.
I was invited to join Meeting Professionals International (MPI) UK, Ireland chapter Board as Director of Communications in 2020 and proud to serve as your President in 2023.
Contact Details: membership@mpiuki.org
DAN AGUERO
VP, Membership
Director of Global Sales, Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI)
Daniel serves as a Director of Global Sales for Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI). ALHI is a Global Sales Organization with a team of nearly 80 professionals located among 26 offices across North America and Europe, ALHI’s serves a membership group of hotels that are Independent Hotels & Independent Brands that are an exclusive luxury collection. Daniel has over 20 years of hospitality experience in the U.S. and Europe, working exclusively within the luxury market. Prior to ALHI, Daniel served as the Assistant Director of Sales at Hotel Café Royal for Set Hotels with previous management roles at the Savoy in London, Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons and more. Daniel has experience within all market segments however his true passion is the MICE industry.
After being a part of MPI for a few years now, Daniel is absolutely delighted to be serving on the board as Director of Communications for a second year.
LOU HINDLEY
Director, Membership
Commercial Director, CHS Events
Lou is Commercial Director for CHS Events delivering two annual exhibitions for the MICE industry in Leeds and Birmingham plus a range of hosted buyer events for venues, hotels and event suppliers across the UK.
She has over 20 years’ experience in the events industry as a sales leader in the UK Hotel industry before working for SquareMeal and then CHS Events, selling commercial product packages to support individual venues sales and marketing requirements.
Lou is passionate about delivering events that offer both a tangible return on investment for clients and a return on experience for buyers and attendees. Over a 20-year career she has developed many relationships with event organisers, venues and hotels across the UK and Europe and is keen to engage with and learn more about their needs.
Post Covid, Lou wanted to be part of an organisation that supported and developed the industry whilst developing her own skills. With a thirst for learning and personal development, she is incredibly proud to be invited to the Board of the MPI UK and Ireland Chapter from 2023.
Contact Details: membership@mpiuki.org
CIARA FEELY
VP, Community
Director, Keynote Speaker & Sales Enablement Trainer
Ciara is the subject matter expert for MPI in the area of sales growth for hotels, agencies and CVBs. Ciara has been a member of MPI for a number of years having held volunteer positions as President Elect, Director of Education, and VP of Education. She is also on the MPI International Small Business Advisory Board.
She is described by Jessie States, Director of the MPI Academy as having revolutionised the sales process for hotels, agencies and CVBs around the world. She runs her own business, based in Cork, Ireland, showing teams how to be leaders in the sales process in the MICE industry. She brings her warm Irish welcome to everything she does focusing teams on how to get the EDGE on their competitors and generate sustained revenue results faster.
Ciara is a best-selling author of “Steps to WIN in the Meetings Market”. The Steps to WIN™ Program is a framework and methodology that shows teams how the Buyer Buys.
She is a mother of twins and lives in a little village in Ireland where the native language of Ireland “Gaeilge” is still spoken. Community is very important to her both in her work and home life. That is why MPI is a great fit for Ciara.
SHELIA EVANS
Director, Community
We are pleased to spotlight Sheila Evans, Community Director for MPI UK & Ireland and a former board member of the GaMPI Chapter in Atlanta, Georgia.
Sheila is a highly respected leader within the global events industry, recognised for her longstanding commitment to MPI and her active involvement at both international and regional levels. Her dedication to advancing the profession is evident through her strategic contributions across multiple chapters and her consistent efforts to strengthen professional networks within the industry.
In her role as Head of Business Development at Worldspan Ltd, Sheila brings a strong strategic vision and deep commercial insight to her work. She is known for her purposeful approach, commitment to innovation, and ability to foster impactful relationships—particularly within the hospitality and events sector.
An enthusiastic advocate for community engagement, mentorship, and professional development, Sheila is focused on cultivating opportunities for connection and growth within MPI UK & Ireland. She plays a pivotal role in developing initiatives that support member engagement, expand networking platforms, and elevate the value MPI provides to both current and future professionals in the events industry.
Outside of her professional commitments, Sheila is an enthusiastic traveller with a deep appreciation for cultural exploration. Her ideal journey blends luxury with authenticity—whether through local cuisine, unique shopping experiences, or moments of relaxation by the sea. Having travelled extensively throughout the United States, she now enjoys discovering the rich heritage and diversity of cities across Europe.
We are honoured to have Sheila as a member of the MPI UK & Ireland Board and are confident that her leadership will continue to make a meaningful impact on our community.
JANET BROOMFIELD
Director, Community
Janet Broomfield is a seasoned sales professional with over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Janet is currently Sales Director at Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI), where she leads a dynamic team focused on driving business growth, fostering strong client relationships, and enhancing the visibility of ALHI’s member hotels.
Why I Wanted to Be a Board Member:
Contact Details: events@mpiuki.org
CARLOS OLIVEIRA
VP, Events
Global Events Strategist, Producer, Sustainability and Social Impact Advisor
Experienced and creative event professional with over 15 years of global expertise, Carlos leads the strategy and execution of events across 6 continents.
With a track record of success in leading strategy and organising award winning conferences, team building activities, social events, arts festivals, incentive trips, award ceremonies, leadership meetings, branding activations, and digital events for global companies, he brings a diverse range of skills and certifications.
Known for his versatility, he possesses a strong foundation in TV, audio-visual production, dance, theatre, executive production, hospitality, and artist management.
ALI MOLLOY
Director, Events
CARLO BOERSMA
Director of Events
Carlo Boersma is the Cluster Sales Director for the UK & Ireland at MHL Hotel Collection, Dublin’s second largest hotel group, leading strategic UK&I MICE sales efforts across a portfolio of high-profile hotels. With over 20 years of experience in the UK hospitality sector, Carlo has held senior sales roles at Edwardian Group London, London Hilton on Park Lane, and the Arora Group.
Prior to joining MHL, Carlo was Director of Sales & Events at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel, where he played a key role in its transformation and relaunch as a luxury resort.
A long-standing advocate for the global meetings and incentives industry, Carlo served on the SITE Ireland Board for several years and led the SITE Young Leaders programme, championing the development of emerging talent in the sector.
Carlo is delighted to join the MPI Board as Director of Events, where he looks forward to curating impactful experiences and continuing his commitment to community and collaboration within the industry.
FELICIA ASIEDU
Director, Event Registration
Marketing Director Cvent Europe
Felicia has over 16 years’ sales and marketing experience in fast-moving technology organisations and is an experienced CIM qualified marketing professional. She has run events both personally and professionally throughout her career and is instrumental in delivering Cvent’s flagship annual European event Cvent CONNECT Europe among other tier 1 events.
Felicia has a background in content and marketing management and is currently responsible for the strategic direction of the Cvent’s marketing team in Europe including expansion planning, brand management, digital experiences, campaign planning and execution, demand generation, lead management and event management. She regularly speaks on topics including marketing, events, technology, self-belief and DE&I at conferences, exhibitions, roundtables, awards and other business events.
She is one of the co-founders of the Diverse Speaker Bureau, is one of the FastForward15 Diversity Ambassadors and sits on the Diversity and Inclusion Council within Cvent. Felicia is passionate about marketers pushing the boundaries of technology to enhance creativity, increase flexibility and reduce waste (of time, money, effort, and materials) whilst personalising experiences for customers, prospects and brand advocates through both digital and offline channels.
DONNA BROGAN
Director, Business Meetings
Luxury and Business Tourism Officer, Meet in Ireland
Contact Details: marketing@mpiuki.org
LAURA CAIN
VP, Marcomms
Client focused and innovative Senior Specialist with 30+ years in Events/ Exhibitions/Production & Marketing.
Leading high-level events, standalone conferences (Investigator Meetings), Satellite Symposia incorporating AI, product launches (roadshows), sales incentives and custom build exhibition stands across UK, Europe and Internationally. Experience in strategic client partnering to develop meeting content and overall event design. Speaker recruitment, contracting, briefing as well as pre and onsite management. Ensuring excellence in delivery of key messages and achieving optimal ROI.
Since re-joining Amex in November 2022, Laura is now Regional Client Manager, responsible for three global pharmaceutical client accounts across 14 countries and continuously developing her strategic understanding of their needs.
Laura was invited to join the board in June 2024 as VP of Marcomms. She is delighted to progress into 2025 with a great team of experts!
TRACY HARRIS
Director, Marcomms
Tracy serves as the Global Account and Operations Director for BCD Meetings & Events, specifically dedicated to BlackRock.
With over 15 years of experience in the events industry, spanning sectors from finance to pharmaceuticals, Tracy excels in the dynamic and fast-paced environment the industry offers.
During her second maternity leave, Tracy successfully launched The Mum Club Cambridge, creating a supportive community for like-minded women to navigate the challenges of motherhood together.
She is eager to contribute to the growth of MPI through her involvement in both the future leaders workstream and the Marcomms role.
ELIZABETH O'CONNOR
Director, Marcomms
Elizabeth is a passionate and driven professional with a strong foundation in marketing and a flourishing career in luxury Sales. A Marketing graduate of MTU Ireland, she began her journey at one of Ireland’s leading 5-star resorts, The Europe Hotel & Resort, where she gained over three years’ experience in marketing before moving into a sales-focused role. Now Sales Executive at the resort, Elizabeth leverages her marketing background in promoting Killarney and Ireland as premier destinations for meetings, incentives and world-class events.
As part of the Marcomms Team with MPI UK & Ireland Chapter, Elizabeth is passionate about contributing to a community that values collaboration, innovation and professional growth within the global meetings and events industry.
AOIFE O’DONNELL
Director, Graphics & SoMe
Contact Details: futureleaders@mpiuki.org
STIJN HUIJBERS
VP, Future Leaders
National Director of Sales UK&I - Specialist Sales Support Office, Hilton
With over 15+ years of hospitality experience and having worked in Sweden, South Africa, China and the UK Stijn brings a wealth of knowledge with him.
In his current role as National Director of Sales UK&I – Specialist Sales Support Office with Hilton, Stijn oversees the overall performance of some key Domestic Accounts, International markets, Business Development and industry relations servicing all the owned & managed hotels in the UK&I. Stijn is described as a culture driven, communicative, inclusive leader focussed on empowering, inspiring and mentoring others to learn more, do more and become more. Stijn continues to create a trustworthy, high energy team environment where people can excel and flourish while driving an effective, creative and result oriented team performance attitude. Equally where fun, relaxation and free time are scheduled and prioritized for everyone to thrive.
Stijn has been actively engage in the industry for many year and is thrilled to be joining the MPI UK&I board as VP, Future Leaders.With over 15+ years of hospitality experience and having worked in Sweden, South Africa, China and the UK Stijn brings a wealth of knowledge with him.
In his current role as National Director of Sales UK&I – Specialist Sales Support Office with Hilton, Stijn oversees the overall performance of some key Domestic Accounts, International markets, Business Development and industry relations servicing all the owned & managed hotels in the UK&I. Stijn is described as a culture driven, communicative, inclusive leader focussed on empowering, inspiring and mentoring others to learn more, do more and become more. Stijn continues to create a trustworthy, high energy team environment where people can excel and flourish while driving an effective, creative and result oriented team performance attitude. Equally where fun, relaxation and free time are scheduled and prioritized for everyone to thrive.
Stijn has been actively engage in the industry for many year and is thrilled to be joining the MPI UK&I board as VP, Future Leaders.
NATHALIE PAXTON
Director, Scholarships & Events
Senior Strategic Account Director, BCD Meetings & Events
Nathalie has responsibility for managing client relationships on a global level within the strategic meetings management sector, as well as supporting a team of Account Directors, for a wide number of verticals including Life Sciences, Manufacturing and Engineering companies.
Nathalie is proud to be part of such a successful Meetings & Events team with BCD M&E and cares passionately about delivering for her clients. In getting to know Nathalie, you’ll understand her commitment to her clients and dedication to going above and beyond.
With 17 year’s experience within the Meetings & Events industry, Nathalie is vastly experienced in several areas including operations; event management/logistics, account management, project management and business and strategic development.
Nathalie focuses on her client's goals and always looks to maximize every situation achieving her client’s M&E program’s objectives from a key strategic level through her extensive knowledge and guidance.
Nathalie is very pleased to be part of the MPI UK & Ireland Board Slate for 2023 and 2024 and working with a talented group of people to raise awareness of our industry value and bring value to those who work in our industry.
Outside of work Nathalie lives in the northeast and enjoys trips to the Yorkshire Dales, Yorkshire Moors and Northumberland, walking with the family, which includes a husband and 3 boys. Recently Nathalie has bought a campervan and the adventures have started!
Contact Details: secretariat@mpiuki.org
HANNAH LEE
VP, Education
Knowledge & Events Senior Executive, IMEX Group
Hannah works for the IMEX Group as Knowledge and Events Senior Executive, looking after speaker acquisition and management for the educational programmes at IMEX Frankfurt and IMEX America. She is also responsible for the global IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forums, which support students taking their next steps into the events industry and provides them with powerful connections to further their careers.
Her passions include relationship building, empowering the next generation of event professionals, programme curation and project management.
Hannah joined Meeting Professionals International (MPI) UK & Ireland chapter in 2021, first volunteering for the Marcomms committee where she worked on MPI's event communication and curated their monthly chapter newsletter. Hannah is now a proud member of the board, serving as Vice President of Education.
Contact Details: secretariat@mpiuki.org
CATHERINE COCKLIN
Secretariat
Founder, Quality Time PA Services
Catherine is founder of virtual assistant business Quality Time PA Services. Catherine created QTPA with the sole purpose of helping small business owners to manage the admin side of their companies so they can concentrate on the things they are good at and like doing most. Over the last two years the business has grown to a point where she now has a fantastic team of VAs ready to help many more small businesses.
TRACY HARRIS
Future Leader
Why did you join MPI?
To be embrace a unique opportunity to help shape the future of our incredible event industry and learn from inspirational peers.
What inspired you to become a Future Leader?
Seeing the great work and opportunities already in existence with MPI worldwide I knew I wanted to be part of this amazing initiative and help grow the UK & Ireland membership. I can’t wait to embrace the opportunity to curate some special moments for new and existing members, alongside some of the industries greatest!
LILY HUNTER
Future Leader
Why did you join MPI?
I joined MPI because I’m passionate about the events industry and always looking for ways to grow both personally and professionally. Being part of MPI allows me to connect with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and bring fresh perspectives back to my work at BCD. I love collaborating with others who share the same enthusiasm for creating impactful experiences, and I see this as an opportunity to expand my network, develop new skills, and contribute to the industry in a meaningful way.
What inspired you to become a Future Leader?
I wanted to be a future leader in MPI because I love supporting others and making a difference. It’s a great way to learn, grow, and help shape the industry while working with amazing people
LORENZO PULEO
Future Leader
Why did you join MPI?
I joined MPI because of the unparalleled network and platform it offers. The ability to engage with professionals from diverse backgrounds across the meetings and events industry is invaluable. It provides access to a wealth of knowledge, fosters collaboration with fellow hospitality experts, and deepens my understanding of the evolving landscape of our industry. MPI is not just a network—it’s a dynamic space for learning, sharing, and driving innovation.
What inspired you to become a Future Leader?
Becoming a Future Leader was a natural step in my commitment to the industry. I wanted to take an active role in shaping the direction of our chapter, contributing to its growth, and supporting the next generation of leaders. It’s an opportunity to gain deeper insights into MPI’s operations, collaborate with inspiring peers, and help create initiatives that drive meaningful impact. Being part of this leadership journey allows me to both give back and grow alongside some of the brightest minds in the field.
REBECCA CARR
Future Leader
Why did you join MPI?
I joined MPI for the people! It’s such a vibrant community full of creative minds and big ideas. It is the perfect place to learn, grow and make amazing new connections.
What inspired you to become a Future Leader?
I want to help shape the future of this amazing industry I love so much! I’m all about new ideas, collaboration and encouraging young people, who are after all, the future of this industry. Being a Future Leader felt like the perfect way to get involved, inspire others (and be inspired!) and hopefully make a real difference!
Apply today and invest in your personal and professional growth