Neil Brownlee, Head of Business Events at VisitScotland, has been inaugurated as the 2025 Chair of PCMA at Convening Leaders, which took place in Houston from 12-15 January 2025.
Neil, who has a wealth of experience gleaned from his over 35 years’ experience in the international hospitality and business events industry, was sworn in alongside Chair Elect Kelly Ricker, Chief Operating Officer, Global Technology Industry Association. He assumes the role of Chair from PCMA Immediate Past Chair Leonard Hoops, President and CEO at Visit Indy.
Neil and Kelly will work together over this coming year alongside PCMA’s Board of Directors and Trustees, to continue promoting business events as catalysts for positive global economic and social transformation and to gain wider recognition and understanding of the industry.
Neil Brownlee said: “I am honoured to begin my tenure as Chair of PCMA, the first non-North American do so, building on the leadership of my friend and colleague and Immediate Past Chair, Leonard Hoops. I am also delighted to be working alongside the talented and dynamic Kelly Ricker, and Sherrif Karamat’s outstanding PCMA team.
“I am passionate about the role that business events can play in promoting social and economic progress and intend to use this year and our global voice to position business events as change makers. It is my aim to represent all members of our globally diverse community as we work together to drive impactful and meaningful change worldwide.”
