The Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry in Singapore is a thriving sector that has provided numerous career opportunities, offering both personal and professional growth. It’s an industry that draws on diverse skills, offering professionals an exciting, ever-evolving work environment. Three MICE professionals—Joshua Lek, Ms. Eu Yan Jun, and Ms. Isabel Shankar—share their journeys and experiences in Singapore’s dynamic events industry, highlighting the unique benefits and opportunities that make it an attractive career path.
1. Joshua Lek: A Decade of Exciting Challenges
Joshua Lek’s journey in the MICE industry spans 10 years and showcases the variety and flexibility the industry offers. As an account manager at BCD Meetings & Events Asia Pacific, he navigates different roles, from product launches in industrial spaces to business luncheons in the heart of Singapore’s shopping district. For Joshua, the appeal of the MICE industry lies in its constant innovation and the opportunity to learn something new with each event.
“I’ve been in the industry for 10 years, and there’s still a lot to learn,” says Lek. The flexibility of project-based work has also allowed him to manage a work-life balance, which he appreciates as his career and life evolve. For instance, the pre-planning stage of events like venue sourcing offers the flexibility to accommodate family commitments, allowing professionals to engage without compromising personal needs.
Singapore’s growing stature as Asia Pacific’s top MICE destination is also an advantage. With major global events like the Singapore Fintech Festival and Singapore Airshow hosted annually, professionals like Joshua benefit from international exposure and the chance to collaborate with experts from around the world.
2. Ms. Eu Yan Jun: Exploring New Horizons in MICE
After two years in her role as event coordinator at Clarion Events, Ms. Eu Yan Jun is enthusiastic about her decision to pursue a career in MICE. For her, the industry offered an opportunity for exploration and a chance to apply her communication skills in a tangible, impactful way. Organizing healthcare and insurance events gives her the satisfaction of seeing direct audience engagement, which is not always possible in traditional marketing roles.
“I wanted a job that had an element of exploration, and that would let me meet new people,” she says. Her job in the medical and insurance sectors has allowed her to connect with professionals from across the globe, and in turn, develop valuable expertise in organizing large-scale conferences. Ms. Eu finds the combination of creativity and technical problem-solving deeply rewarding, and the chance to continuously learn has kept her motivated.
3. Ms. Isabel Shankar: Growing Through Challenges and Experiences
With a polytechnic diploma in events management, Ms. Isabel Shankar knew early on that the MICE industry was her calling. Working as a senior project executive at Koelnmesse Ptd Ltd, she plays a pivotal role in organizing large-scale trade exhibitions and conferences in the dental and orthodontic fields. Her journey highlights how the MICE industry can foster both professional expertise and personal growth, particularly in developing soft skills.
For Isabel, working in MICE has not only strengthened her technical abilities but also pushed her to overcome her introverted nature. “Organising events and having to interact face-to-face with people from all walks of life helped me come out of my shell,” she says. Quick decision-making, problem-solving during unexpected situations, and dealing with last-minute schedule changes are all part of the role, requiring agility and resilience.
Her experience with digital and hybrid events shows how the industry is adapting to new technologies, and she is constantly expanding her skills to keep pace with the changing landscape. Whether working with immersive exhibition designs or exploring new ways of engaging audiences, Isabel finds the dynamic nature of MICE extremely fulfilling.
The Singapore MICE Industry: A Hub of Opportunity
Singapore’s position as a global MICE hub has propelled its professionals to the forefront of the industry. In 2023, Singapore ranked second in the International Congress and Convention Association’s Worldwide City Rankings, a testament to the country’s growing importance as a venue for international conferences and trade exhibitions. The rise of hybrid events and a diverse mix of local and international clientele further enhances the career opportunities for MICE professionals.
For both newcomers and veterans, the industry offers professional satisfaction, global exposure, and opportunities for career advancement. From event planning and client relations to technical expertise in digital events, the MICE sector offers a multitude of roles that cater to various talents and skills. The industry’s ever-evolving nature ensures that professionals stay engaged and continually develop, which is why many, like Joshua, Eu, and Isabel, stay in the industry long-term.
Why MICE?
The MICE sector in Singapore is more than just about organizing events—it’s about creating meaningful experiences, driving innovation, and forging connections across industries. Whether it’s the satisfaction of seeing an event come to life or the excitement of meeting new people and exploring new ideas, MICE professionals experience a sense of fulfillment that few other industries can offer. The ability to adapt to new challenges, learn new skills, and thrive in a fast-paced environment ensures that the MICE industry remains a rewarding career choice for those willing to grow and evolve.
Ultimately, the dynamic, globally connected nature of Singapore’s MICE industry promises endless opportunities for professionals to thrive, no matter where they are in their careers.
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