CORBIN TO CHAIR EIBTM’S WORLDWIDE WATCH 2003

Top international technological industry expert, speaker, writer, author and consultant, Corbin Ball is to be the new Chairman of EIBTM’s independent WorldWide Watch (WW) panel - identifying the latest cutting edge technology that could have a major effect on business.

Mr. Ball, Owner and Chief Executive Officer of US-based Corbin Ball Associates, which helps clients throughout the world to use technology to save time and improve productivity, is acknowledged as one of the industry’s leading international leaders.

He has just been named MPI’s ‘International Supplier of the Year’ for his international and chapter participation, acclaimed industry speaking record, contributions to more than 200 industry articles, books and CD-ROMS, community service and overall career commitment and achievement. 

He is also one of MPI’s founding Chancellors, a brain trust of seven industry visionaries, serving as resources and mentors for the membership. He has also been voted one of ‘The 25 Most Influential People in the Meetings Industry’ three times by the publication Meetings News.

Mr. Ball has 20 years of experience running international technology meetings. He is a technology columnist for five industry publications and serves or has served on numerous hotel, corporate and association boards, including Conferon Board of Directors, MPI Foundation Trustee, Sonesta Hotels & Resorts Meeting Planner Advisory Board, Starwood Lodging Meetings Advisory Board, Sheraton Meetings Advisory Board and Mohegan Sun Meetings Advisory Board. 

He was also Chairman of the Technology Advisory Council – Accepted Practices Exchange Initiative (APEX).

Mr. Ball said “I am delighted and honoured to accept the Chairmanship of the Worldwide Watch panel and am very much looking forward to working with EIBTM in this capacity. Technology is changing the face of the MICE industry and encouraging and recognizing international innovation in this area benefits us all.”

Sandie McCoubrey, EIBTM’s Marketing Manager, said: “EIBTM is both privileged and honoured to have the professional expertise and knowledge of someone of Corbin’s outstanding calibre and reputation. He has that rare ability to make a highly complex subject understandable and fun.

“We will be working with him over the coming years to help the industry keep up to date with the very latest and most promising technology developments. 

“With his expert assistance, we will take the initiative to a new level of development and improvement that will be of even more constructive value to the industry worldwide. The majority of entries are website or on-line based and this is where Corbin’s particular knowledge, focus and drive will be invaluable. 

“The WW panel, chaired by Corbin, is proposed to meet in April 2003 in London to make their final assessment of the papers and presentations submitted by technology companies, suppliers, planners and other organisations involved in the international industry. 

“The panel will select the entry that, in their opinion, will have the most influence on the industry in the future.”

The chosen company will then be invited to make the high profile presentation during EIBTM 2003 on Wednesday 21 May at Palexpo, Geneva.