2020 was a challenging year for ICCA and for the industry but ICCA members expressed a strong wish for the association to continue its transformation and to lead and inspire innovative new business opportunities for members and the ICCA community, both now and in the future.
ICCA President James Rees announced the launch of a ground-breaking business events industry initiative, ICCASkills, the ICCA certification programme.
“Having identified the need to support the enhancement our industry’s educational programmes, combining the extensive knowledge and passion of the ICCA community, we have developed ICCASkills to be at the forefront of global business events education,” said James Rees.
ICCA is launching this certification programme for its membership and the industry to meet the challenges of the need for new business models, enhanced professionalism and standards in the industry.
With courses beginning in the third quarter of 2021, ICCA will grant recognition to an industry professional who has met certain predetermined qualifications specified by the association.
Certification will:
- Identify qualified professionals
- Ensure recognition of expertise
- Enhance credibility and prestige to individuals in the industry
- Provide a vehicle for professional development
The in-depth curriculum will be developed and delivered by industry experts, including inspirational business leaders, academics and ICCA members, delivered through on-site and online learning environments.
ICCASkills will commence in the third quarter 2021, starting with Certified International Convention Specialist (CICS), designed for member employees aiming for their first management position and Certified International Convention Executive (CICE) created for managers with at least three years’ experience.
CICS and CICE certification are marks of excellence and will provide graduates with recognition of their expertise, enhance their industry profile and provide professional development opportunities.
ICCASkills will be guided by a diverse Certification Committee, including implementing standards, requirements and course content approval. An Academic Curriculum Sub-Committee comprising university representatives and ICCA members will support these activities to guarantee relevancy and rigour. GainingEdge, an ICCA member, has come forward to provide logistical and operational support during the initiative’s preliminary phases. Other ICCA consultant members will be an integral part of the programme development.
Over the coming months, ICCA will be inviting members to contribute to the programme by submitting content and assisting in course delivery. Information on registration, fees, synopsis of courses, and assessment requirements will be available during the second quarter of 2021.
