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Hana Peregrinova: "What I find most fulfilling is when clients fully entrust us as true partners in their vision"

Nov 20, 2024
3 Minutes Read
What I find most fulfilling is when clients fully entrust us as true partners in their vision What I find most fulfilling is when clients fully entrust us as true partners in their vision
Head of Kuoni Tumlare Congress Hana Peregrinova believes that successful managing of high-profile congresses is defined by enduring dedication to client partnerships, cutting-edge event solutions, and a shared vision of success. In this interview Hana reflects on her career, shares insights into the evolving congress landscape, and explains what sets Kuoni Tumlare Congress apart in a competitive industry.

Could you share insights into your career journey and what initially drew you to the congress industry?

My journey began at a young age. Growing up in a family of medical professionals, I was introduced early to the world of international conferences, often accompanying my father to these events. The dynamic, globally connected environment left a lasting impression on me. Later, I was introduced to one of Europe’s premier congresses, which truly solidified my passion for this field. I spent two years in Geneva immersing myself in every aspect of congress operations working for Kuoni Congress—from managing scientific programs to overseeing large-scale housing events. Nearly 15 years later, I’m still deeply committed to the congress industry, continually learning and evolving within this vibrant community in the Kuoni Tumlare Congress. I am very proud of my team and what they were able to achieve in past years, they motivate and inspire me every day.

Can you recall a particularly memorable event that has defined your career?

Each event carries memorable moments, both rewarding and challenging, and every project is unique, offering new lessons and perspectives. What I find most fulfilling is when clients fully entrust us as true partners in their vision. These partnerships not only strengthen our professional bonds but also allow me to experience diverse cultures and build global connections. However, if I had to select a single defining moment, it would be working with Starmus and meeting the legendary Stephen Hawking. That encounter was both inspiring and humbling.
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How would you articulate the unique value proposition of Kuoni Tumlare Congress, and what differentiates it from competitors?

At Kuoni Tumlare Congress, our dedication and passion drive everything we do. We are deeply committed to building long lasting partnerships, working alongside our clients to achieve their strategic objectives. Our approach integrates continual learning and innovation, allowing us to collaboratively enhance the impact of each congress. We believe that through strategic planning, clear objectives, and a shared vision, we can help associations elevate both their educational and business outcomes. No matter if we act as PCO or as the official housing agency both roles play crucial role in event success and the flexible and committed approach is something we can offer to each client.

What do you consider the most challenging aspect of organizing large congresses, and how do you address it?

One of the greatest challenges is aligning the expectations of both our clients and suppliers, particularly when the needs of each party can differ. As a Professional Congress Organizer (PCO), we often find ourselves in a balancing act, where fostering mutual success requires thoughtful negotiation and transparent communication. By promoting partnership, openness, and shared goals, we create an environment where all parties feel invested in the event’s success.

How important is sustainability in PCO operations, and what practices does Kuoni Tumlare Congress employ to promote eco-friendly events?

Sustainability is absolutely essential. While face-to-face events are invaluable for knowledge exchange, skill development, education, career opportunities, and boosting the economy of the host city, they do carry environmental implications such as CO2 emissions, resource consumption, or over tourism. To mitigate these impacts, we are committed to continuous improvement through measurable sustainability practices. This includes offering alternative travel options, emphasizing vegetarian and local catering, minimizing single-use plastics, reducing waste, and partnering with suppliers who prioritize sustainable energy. Educating our participants on ways they can contribute to these goals is also key to building a collective commitment to sustainability.
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What emerging trends do you foresee in the congress and event management industry?

The impact of technology on the congress industry is accelerating, with AI and augmented reality reshaping participant experiences. While face-to-face interaction remains the cornerstone of our events, these technological advancements—combined with enhanced online streaming options—are now integral components of congress planning. Moreover, we are observing a growing emphasis on value, with participants seeking not only worthwhile experiences but also a focus on their well-being. As a PCO, it’s crucial to incorporate these evolving expectations into our everyday work, ensuring that each event resonates both professionally and personally with attendees.

How are you leveraging these trends at Kuoni Tumlare Congress?

At Kuoni Tumlare Congress, we actively embrace these emerging trends to elevate the experience and value we offer. In response to the growing role of technology, we are incorporating AI-driven insights and automation into our event planning and management processes, optimizing everything from scheduling and registration to enhancing on-site attendee support. Augmented reality and live-streaming options are also becoming key features, allowing us to extend the reach and inclusivity of our congresses, while maintaining the irreplaceable benefits of face-to-face interaction.

Furthermore, as attendees increasingly value well-being and meaningful engagement, we have expanded our offerings to include wellness-focused activities, such as mindfulness sessions, dedicated networking spaces, and customizable event experiences that cater to individual needs and preferences. This approach not only enhances attendee satisfaction but also aligns with our commitment to creating impactful experiences.

Finally, sustainability remains central to our strategy. By adopting measurable practices—such as eco-conscious travel options, waste reduction, and sustainable sourcing—we are committed to reducing the environmental footprint of our events. This dedication to both technological innovation and sustainability not only keeps us at the forefront of the industry but also strengthens our partnerships by aligning with the values of our clients and participants.

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