The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Ambassador programme is a big earner for region
Morethan 200 conferences delivered under ambassador scheme
The word ambassador may bring to mind pyramids of chocolates, but for those involved in business tourism it has an altogether different meaning.
Launched in November 2000, the Dundee & Angus Convention Bureau Conference Ambassador Programme has supported academics and professionals from Dundee University, Abertay University and the James Hutton Institute in bringing global conferences and events to the region.
Home to one of the largest research communities in Europe, Dundee and Angus is well placed to attract national and international academic and association meetings and events.
And attract them it has – those involved in the scheme have delivered more than 200 conferences across Dundee and Angus since its inception, contributing £36 million to the local economy.
And with over 250 ambassadors currently working with the bureau to attract academic associations and organisations in a wide range of fields, these figures are set to rise.
For many conference organisers, the task can be a daunting one – few are events-industry professionals, and it can be difficult for newcomers to the field to know where to start.
That is where Dundee & Angus Convention Bureau and their partners can help.
Ambassadors are able to draw on the bureau’s expertise, gaining assistance from a team that has delivered hundreds of conferences and events.
For Alex Baldacchino, previously at Dundee University and now Professor of Medicine, Psychiatry and Addictions at St Andrews University, the bureau became “an oasis of efficiency and excellence” when organising the isamDUNDEE2015 Congress.
He said: “The bureau was supportive throughout the difficult but enjoyable journey in organising a world congress.
“The team provide a mix of professional efficiency and friendly advice which I believe are unique attributes that help make such an ambitious event a resounding success.”
Similarly, ambassador Professor Nikolai Zhelev, of Abertay University, said the team at the bureau “really are experts”.
Without the help of the team, Professor Zhelev said organising the 2nd International Conference on Clinical Sciences and Drug Discovery would have been “like organising a wedding – but one with six brides and six bridegrooms.
“In other words – impossible.”