ICCA World members voted Marta Gomes as the new ICCA President on the opening day of the 61st ICCA Congress in Kraków. As Deputy Executive Director, Gomes is in charge of sales at Viparis, the French specialist for the organization of congresses and trade fairs – a company that, as stated by ICCA, is “a great supporter of everything ICCA stands for in the international events and meetings industry”. In her new role, Gomes succeeds James Rees.

After a difficult few years due to the pandemic, “Gomes believes there are ‘blue skies ahead and events are coming back strongly’”. But, Gomes continues, “we should be ever mindful of the challenges ahead. Challenges we can meet if we have the belief and confidence to talk about ‘the value of our industry’ in a clear, proud and distinctive voice”.

Gomes’ hopes are reflected in the ways in which „our members engage with ICCA, particularly through the use of improved digital tools“. According to a press release, she greatly appreciates ICCA heritage and its members and hopes, her leadership will exceed their expectations. Reportedly, Gomes has listened intently to members, and encouraged them to ask questions about how ICCA can meet their needs in a changing world: “It’s time to review some of the things we do, and possibly adapt what we offer according to our members’ needs”.

She congratulated her fellow Presidential candidates Gregg H. Talley and Daniel Palermo for their excellent campaigns and looks forward to continuing their close working collaboration in the coming years.

ICCA CEO Senthil Gopinath commented: “Marta is a big personality in the ICCA family and liked and appreciated by the ICCA Community. Her positivity, enthusiasm and commitment to improving the way ICCA thinks and works is an exciting prospect for us all. I very much enjoy working with her on the Board, and now look forward to her time as President.”