2026 International Events Symposium
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Our 2026 International Events Symposium will provide an exciting opportunity to learn from prestigious event industry professionals, who will deliver an informative and engaging mini lecture on the role they perform in the industry.
Aligning with Scotland’s National Events Strategy (2024-2035), our symposium aims to inspire the next generation of major events professionals by providing cost-free educational opportunities for personal development and networking with senior leaders.
Guest speakers
- Alex Johnston: Legacy Manager, Commonwealth Games Federation
- Dominic McKay: Chief Executive Officer, Scottish Events Campus & Chairman of the Board of European Professional Club Rugby
- Karen Young: Event Operations Lead, Scottish Football Association
- Kate Steven: Director of Operations, 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships
- Mike Duignan: Founder/Chair, Centre for Events & Festivals
- Paul Bush OBE: Managing Director, Tour de France Grand Depart 2027
Agenda
| Agenda | Presenter | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome | Craig McIntyre - Lecturer in Sport Management | 10:00-10:05 |
| Scottish Events Campus | Dominic McKay - Chief Executive Officer | 10:05-10:35 |
| Tour de France Grand Depart 2027 | Paul Bush OBE - Managing Director | 10:35-11:05 |
| Centre for Events & Festivals | Mike Duignan - Founder and Chair | 11:05-11:35 |
| Lunch break | 11:35-12:25 | |
| 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships | Kate Steven - Director of Operations | 12:25-12:55 |
| Commonwealth Games Federation | Alex Johnston - Legacy Manager | 12:55-13:25 |
| Scottish Football Association | Karen Young - Event Operations Lead | 13:25-13:55 |
| Closing remarks | Craig McIntyre - Lecturer in Sport Management | 13:55-14:00 |
Our 2025 International Events Symposium was recognised as a finalist in the Enhancing Student Learning category at The Herald Education Awards. It attracted more than 300 attendees, and created multiple student placement and paid employment opportunities. The Symposium is now delivered in collaboration with VisitScotland, strengthening its role in connecting attendees with industry leading organisations.
Please complete our registration form to confirm your attendance. By completing this registration form, you are confirming that you will attend for the entire duration.
We look forward to welcoming you to Scotland's University for Sporting Excellence.
