Foulkes set out his plans for the year ahead, including investing in event management students, improving event marketing communications, growing ISES nationwide, taking advantage of the impact of 2012 over the next three years, and promoting the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) board pilot scheme.

He said ISES will grow its current events, such as the ISES Media Forum, following on from the first London Forum in association with the Mayor's office in July at London Excel's ICC.

To see pictures from the event taken by Simon Lane photography click here.

ISES will also introduce a  new event, ISES Powerhours, a series of 'money can't buy' experiences that members qualify for by purchasing tickets for ISES Meets events. They will be treated to an inspirational talk hosted in a unique setting, such as breakfast on the Strictly Come Dancing set.

Foulkes ended by introducing the new board, which includes Davies Tanner business development director Jane Hague as vice-president of communications, and Claire Berry of Soho House as vice-president of membership.

The first heat of The Next Big Thing also took place at the AGM, with magician Sean Hayden and singer Ben Hewitt getting through to the next round.

Sponsors for the night included Hawthorns, Kudos Hospitality, IML and BIG badges.

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