NZ - New accreditations showcase ‘unsung heroes’ of events and conferences

16 Jun 2020 9:11 AM | Anonymous

In-house conference and event (Association) professionals can now highlight their skills and expertise with a tailored industry accreditation.

The Certified Association Conference Organiser (CACO) and Certified Association Event Organiser (CAEO) accreditations have been established by the Australasian (NZ) Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) in recognition of the crucial role played by in-house organisers.

Brett Jeffery, New Zealand General Manager of AuSAE, says a recent working group on conference management highlighted a lack of formal recognition for in-house managers in comparison with Professional Conference Organisers.

“In-house professionals are the unsung heroes of events and conferences. The best ones are so good at their jobs that things run seamlessly and they make it look easy, but we know that’s not the case!”

Mr Jeffery says the new accreditations will be valuable for raising the profile of in-house professionals.

“Around 70% of conferences and events are organised in-house - that’s a lot of work. These accreditations will highlight the depth and breadth of knowledge and experience these people contribute to successful conferences and events.”

In order to attain the accreditations, applicants need to uphold a code of conduct which includes high standards of personal ethical behaviour and integrity, as well as complying with health and safety and environmental standards.

Applicants also need to demonstrate evidence of their management of conferences or events, including relevant documentation of plans, budgets, run sheets, supplier management etc.

People who gain the endorsements will be expected to attend at least two AuSAE group meetings each year. Mr Jeffery says the meetings will provide excellent opportunities to learn and network.

“We see these certifications as a significant competitive advantage for the in-house professionals who attain them. They showcase experience, expertise and consistent high levels of performance.”

For more information on CAEO and CACO certification, go to https://ausae.org.au/Certification1

Brett Jeffery | General Manager NZ | AuSAE

d  04 889 2292    m  027 249 8677    e  brett@ausae.org.au    w  ausae.org.au

Strengthening Trans-Tasman Connections: AuSAE and Tourism New Zealand Business Events Renew Partnership

Association professionals across Australia and New Zealand have even more reason to explore trans-Tasman opportunities. AuSAE is proud to announce the renewal of its longstanding partnership with Tourism New Zealand Business Events, celebrating 11 years of collaboration.

For over a decade, this partnership has strengthened connections between the two countries, helping associations expand networks, share knowledge, and deliver world-class events.

Toni Brearley, CAE, Chief Executive Officer at AuSAE, said:

“Our partnership with Tourism New Zealand Business Events has opened doors for association leaders to plan unforgettable events and connect with peers across the Tasman. Together, we’ve created opportunities, shared knowledge, and elevated the experiences of our members and their delegates. This partnership reinforces our commitment to fostering strong trans-Tasman collaborations, helping associations innovate, grow, and deliver outstanding value to their members.”

Helen Bambry, Business Events Manager at Tourism New Zealand, added:

“Partnering with AuSAE means we can directly support association professionals in bringing their next international business event to New Zealand – offering assistance, funding, and support to ensure exceptional experiences for both organisers and delegates.”

Watch the Tourism New Zealand Business Events video

What this partnership means for you

For Australian associations:

  • Receive expert guidance and support to bring conferences or member events to New Zealand.
  • Access funding assistance through Tourism New Zealand Business Events.
  • Expand your network and build partnerships with New Zealand peers and industry leaders.
  • Deliver international experiences for members and delegates just across the Tasman.

For New Zealand associations:

  • Strengthen professional connections with Australian association leaders through AuSAE’s network.
  • Share expertise and collaborate on professional development, governance, and member engagement initiatives, and more.
  • Gain visibility within the broader association community in Australia and New Zealand.
  • Access opportunities to host international association events and delegates in New Zealand, boosting local engagement and knowledge exchange.

About AuSAE:

The home for association professionals, the Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) is the leading - and only not-for-profit, member-based - organisation supporting association professionals in Australia and New Zealand. For 70 years, AuSAE has been a trusted partner for those working in associations, providing professional development, support, and networking to help association leaders achieve organisational goals, advance their careers, and strengthen the wider sector.

About Tourism New Zealand Business Events:

Tourism New Zealand Business Events provides expert guidance, funding, and support to attract conferences, incentives and corporate events to New Zealand.

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For more information about AuSAE, please contact Toni Brearley, CAE:
Toni Brearley, CAE
Chief Executive Officer, AuSAE
E: toni@ausae.org.au
T: + 61 458 000 155

To apply for funding and support to host a conference in New Zealand contact Helen Bambry:
Helen Bambry
Business Events Manager, Tourism New Zealand
E: Helen.Bambry@tnz.govt.nz
T: +61 415 933 325


The Australasian Society of Association Executives

Contact us:

Email: info@ausae.org.au
Phone: 1300 764 576 (within Australia)
Phone: +61 7 3268 7955 (outside Australia)
Address: Unit 6, 26 Navigator Place, Hendra QLD 4011, Australia