Programme



Theme:

Creative Collaborations: Innovating for Greater Communities

In the heart of Dublin, where culture, creativity, and community intersect, we invite you to join us for the BestCities Global Forum 2025. We will explore how creative collaborations can ignite innovation, foster inclusivity, and transform global challenges into community-driven solutions.

Meet the Global Forum Facilitator


Patrick Delaney

Patrick Delaney is Managing Partner at SoolNua, a boutique consultancy firm working in the Meetings and Events industry. Previously, both Delaney worked for MCI, a global association, communications and event management company.

Patrick holds a BA degree in Hospitality Management from Dublin Institute of Technology. Patrick worked for the Irish Tourist Board for many years throughout Ireland and the US. Patrick returned to Ireland in the early 90s and worked as Sales and Marketing Director for a five star luxury hotel brand.

Following this, he started Delaney Marketing Consultants in 1994 with Padráic Gilligan. In 2002 Delaney Marketing acquired Ovation and re-branded as Ovation Group. In June 2007 Ovation was acquired by MCI Group and commenced a robust global expansion programme which saw the establishment of Ovation offices at over 100 European, Asia, Latin American and Middle Eastern destinations under the Ovation Global DMC brand.

Delaney was the first non US international president of Site (Society of Incentive and Travel Executives). He was the only Irish person to be recognised by Conference & Incentive Travel (UK) for inclusion in their Power 50 list; a directory of the most inspirational people in the UK and Ireland.

Patrick has been honoured with various awards at the meeting and events industry’s premier shows including the IMEX Academy Award in 2009 and the EIBTM 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award. He has spoken at a number of industry events, contributing to Site, EIBTM, IMEX and ICCA to name a few and continues to give regular seminars and lectures across all five continents of the world. Delaney also serves on the advisory board for EIBTM and the Board of Directors for INCON Group.





Programme

The theme for this year’s conference is “Creative Collaborations: Innovating for Greater Communities”.  We will explore how creative collaborations can ignite innovation, foster inclusivity, and transform global challenges into community -driven solutions.

We’re proud to collaborate with local organizations like the Gaelic Athletics Association and Gaelic Players Association, two bodies intrinsically woven into Irish sport & culture. Their commitment to community-building aligns perfectly with our theme. 

And also, as the European capital of Smart Tourism in 2024, Dublin sets the stage for forward-thinking discussions. We will have sessions from leaders in our thriving technology knowledge hub, where experts will share insights on AI, sustainability, and digital transformation. Our aim is to harness innovation to create more resilient, connected, and compassionate communities.

From grassroots initiatives to city-wide projects, we’ll explore how collective efforts between the 13 BestCities partners and international associations can strengthen the fabric of the global meetings industry.




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