SPIN: Senior Planners Industry Network has changed its name to SPIN: Senior Professionals Industry Network, and is now welcoming veteran suppliers into its ranks.
SPIN was started in 2008 to fill a need for education and networking for senior-level meeting planners. As the association enters its 10th year, it is inviting suppliers with at least 10 years of experience to join. Supplier membership will be capped at 33 per cent of overall membership—the lowest ratio in the meeting industry.
“We’ve had a 33 per cent supplier ratio at our annual conference, SPINCon, since its inception, and it’s been a great environment for both sides,” said SPIN founder Shawna Suckow, CMP. “We’re looking forward to our membership reflecting the great environment—and participant ratio—we’ve built at SPINCon over the years.”
SPIN has grown robustly since its start as a LinkedIn group and now counts nearly 3,000 planner members in North America and Canada.
“Our strict planner focus has resulted in some really one-sided conversations and education,” said SPIN vice-president of Communications, Carolyn Browning, CMP. “It’s time for us to evolve and bridge the gap, to be the place where the industry’s most experienced professionals meet, connect, and change the industry for the better.”
While SPIN welcomes supplier membership, it’s on-line community fosters a no-selling environment.
“We want to keep the focus on connections and conversations that build relationships, not just transactions,” said Tracey Smith, CMP, CMM, SPIN Advisory Board member. “Any of our supplier partners who’ve been to SPINCon know that the vibe within SPIN is really special, and we all want to protect that. SPIN is the place to foster real relationships.”
Senior-level suppliers are invited to apply for membership today at www.spinplanners.com. Membership is $799 through the end of October, with two bonus months of membership included for a total of 14 months. If supplier membership spots still remain (in keeping with the 33 per cent cap on supplier enrollment), dues will increase November 1, 2017 to $899.
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