In honor of Global Meetings Industry Day 2025, we’re spotlighting the heart of our work: our people
There’s something powerful about a meeting. It’s not just the business card exchanges or polished presentations but the conversations that spark ideas, the moments of shared learning, and the relationships that carry far beyond the meeting space.
At Teneo, we believe the people behind the scenes — the connectors, the listeners, the relationship-builders — make meetings matter. In celebration of Global Meetings Industry Day 2025, we’re spotlighting a few of our incredible sellers whose passion, insight, and dedication fuel our industry.
Teneo Summit 2024
In Five Words: Why Meetings Matter
We asked our team to describe what meetings mean to them in five words. Their answers spoke volumes.
- “Engagement. Strategy. Collaboration. Discussions. Productivity.” – Kathie Giles
- “Collaboration. Alignment. Trust. Goals. Clarity.” – Constanza Thornton
- “Life is about connections and relationships.” – Justin Plank
- “Connecting with people — it matters!” – Scott White
- “Enjoyment. Connection. Relationships. Trust. Experiences.” – April Egloff
- “Networking. Learning. Strategic. Teambuilding. Collaboration.” – Jon Robinson
Every word points to a deeper truth: Meetings are about people and the meaningful, purpose-driven connections they build.
What Drew Us In: How It All Started
For many Teneo sellers, the spark started with a love of travel, a heart for hospitality, or even following in their family’s footsteps.
“My mom was a GM at a hotel while I was growing up,” said Kathie Giles, “and I was fully engaged being beside her.”
For others, it was a calling to create impact through service.
“I’ve always held the hospitality industry in high regard,” shared Justin Plank. “There’s very little I find more admirable than service to others. This passion for genuine hospitality and creating positive memories drew me in.”
“I love building relationships and get inspired by meaningful messaging,” added Marieke Franz, “especially with people I might never have crossed paths with otherwise.”
Moments That Mattered
For the Teneo team, meetings are more than dates on a calendar; some left lasting impressions.
- “It was an unbelievable feeling to host families that made the ultimate sacrifice. It left a lasting impression I’ll never forget.” – Justin Plank
- “Riding through the Napa vines on horseback with clients — breathtaking scenery, genuine connection. A true ‘pinch-me’ moment.” – April Egloff
- “Recently, I helped bring a large annual conference to Spokane — a second-tier destination. I not only love promoting our hotel partners but also love to ‘sell’ the destinations. It’s incredibly rewarding to help planners see the potential in places they may have overlooked.” – Jennifer Milliron
- “I met a planner for dinner during a tough time in my life. I didn’t expect much, but it turned into the most uplifting evening. We connected in such a meaningful way; it reminded me how organically powerful this industry is.” – Marieke Franz
Tips from the Field: It’s All About Connection
From seasoned industry vets to natural-born connectors, Teneo sellers have seen what makes a meeting successful — and it’s rarely just about the agenda. Their best advice for planners and hoteliers? Focus on the people, the purpose, and the partnership.
- “Collaborate and listen — really listen — to what attendees are curious about,” said Kathie Giles. “The most memorable events are the ones that are designed with the audience in mind.”
- Constanza Thornton echoed the importance of intentional planning: “Know your audience. Every session or activity should offer genuine value based on their needs and interests.”
- For Justin Plank, transparency is everything. “Be clear with your event partners from the start — in sales, pre-planning, and on-site execution. When expectations are aligned, everyone wins.”
- Marieke Franz added: “When planners clearly communicate the event’s purpose, it allows the venue to become a true partner in achieving those goals.”
- April Egloff keeps the heart of the event in focus. “Don’t let the logistics overshadow the feeling. What you’re creating is a memory — something that sticks.”
- Scott White kept it simple: “Communicate early and often.”
- Jon Robinson reminded us that a great meeting always makes space for a personal connection to the content.
- As Chris Nord adds: “Get involved in industry organizations like MPI or PCMA. They’re essential for education, networking, and growth.”
The Big Picture: Why Meetings Matter
More than $126 billion is spent on meeting and event-related travel annually in the U.S., directly supporting nearly 620,000 jobs. But the true impact goes beyond the economy.
“Every opportunity to connect in this industry has shaped how I see the world,” said Gary Murakami. “Meetings are catalysts — for ideas, for progress, for change.”
At Teneo, we’re proud to support an industry that thrives on collaboration, community, and impact. Our team isn’t just selling space — they’re creating environments for innovation, inclusion, and transformation.
More Than Just a Day: Honoring the People Who Power Our Industry
At Teneo, we’ll celebrate our people — and the power of face-to-face connections — not just on Global Meetings Industry Day but every day.
Looking for more inspiration? See our other story, “Top 10 Ways to Make an Impact in the Meetings Industry,” for actionable tips on how to grow, lead, and strengthen our industry.
And if you’re planning your next event, we’d love to help. Connect with our team to find the perfect venue and bring your meeting vision to life.
