A senior executive from integrated resort operator Melco Resorts and Entertainment Ltd, recently gave a talk to IFTM students about the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) industry. Ms. Christy Cheong, Melco Resorts’ Vice President for Promotion, Event and Marketing, discussed in the lecture a range of MICE-related issues – from event preparation and budget control, to crisis management and communication skills –, illustrating them with examples from her own professional experience.
She gave the lecture in a videoconference on 8 June at the invitation of IFTM Lecturer Dr. Sherry Tan. The talk was for Year 2 students on the Tourism Event Management Evening Bachelor Programme.
It was part of a special series of IFTM guest lectures by members of the senior management of Melco Resorts. The Institute uses a variety of approaches to support teaching and study, including hosting special talks with industry experts, to improve students’ knowledge of operational and developmental trends in relevant sectors.
Ms. Cheong told students that working in the MICE industry was challenging, as often professionals would face unexpected situations and had to manage demanding workloads. But she added there were benefits to working in MICE, including the chance to develop new problem-solving skills, to connect with people from different parts of the world, and to experience the satisfaction of helping clients organise their longed-for events.
The Melco Resorts senior executive told students it was important for MICE professionals to be positive in their thinking, and to be enthusiastic about study and work.
Ms. Cheong highlighted that MICE was a ‘people-orientated’ industry: its main goal was to generate enduring positive memories among clients. At the same time, she added, it covered a wide range of activities at a variety of scales – from meetings and conferences, to seminars and exhibitions – involving people from a variety of backgrounds. That meant, according to Ms. Cheong, the industry had great need for fresh talent with varied skills and an international outlook.
Students taking part in the lecture reported the event helped them to improve their understanding of the latest trends and challenges in the MICE industry. They added they hoped IFTM would continue to host similar events in the future, allowing them to interact with seasoned industry executives.
