Dani Palmieri – Conference Coordinator

With nearly 14 years’ experience in conferencing, Dani is one of our most talented and experienced staff members.  She was also the very first staff member we employed and we are so delighted she is still with us 10 years on.  Here, Dani shares what her role involves, her top tips to delivering a successful conference and a little about herself.

Hi Dani, as a Conference Coordinator at Think Business Events what are you responsible for?

My job is to facilitate a smooth and successful conference, from the initial planning stage through to coordination of people and activities on the day. My day can be a real mixed bag and can include liaison with speakers, delegates, committees, suppliers, venues and clients; program development and management, creation of printed collateral, generation of data for conference apps, database management, marketing, travel arrangements and meeting deadlines.

What do you consider the most important aspect when coordinating a conference?

Simply, keeping people informed. When you empower people with knowledge it allows them to do their work, plan their day, and in the end, have an enjoyable conference experience.

What is your secret to a well-managed onsite registration site?

Preparation! If you are organised and have everything ready by the time that first delegate arrives at the registration desk, this will ensure the conference starts on a good note.

What do you love most about conference management?

I have worked on several conferences over the years (both local and international) and what I enjoy most is when I see the conference come together onsite. It is like a jigsaw puzzle with all the pieces clicking into place.

With 14 years in conferencing, what would you say has been the biggest change in the industry?

The increase in the use of online technology, in particular social media to advertise conferences and connect people. Conference apps have also become quite popular and are a great tool in keeping attendees up to date with real-time information.

What would be your top tip to someone organising a conference for the first time?

While it is very important to concentrate on the details, make sure the big picture always remains in focus.

Congratulations on your 10 years with Think Business Events!  How would you describe your time with the company?

Thank you, I must say that the years have just flown by.  Think Business Events is a passionate, innovative, solution orientated company and I enjoy working for them.  I look forward to seeing what the next few years will look like in the world of conferencing.

What do you do when you are not conferencing?

When I am not conferencing, I love travelling and enjoying time with my family.

Thanks for your time today and most importantly your 10 years of service Dani!