AEV celebrates emerging talent in the event venue sector with new award

The Association of Event Venues (AEV) has, today, launched its “Emerging Talent Award” new for 2026.

Created to recognise outstanding emerging talent within the AEV membership, the award will be granted to individuals who demonstrate exceptional promise, creativity and commitment to the events industry.

The award is open to those in the first one to five years of their career in the events industry, operating in all venue departments, including but not limited to catering, commercial, event management, finance, guest experience, HR, operations, security, sustainability and venue production. 

AEV members may submit up to three nominations per venue, from which the Class of 2026 will be formed, recognising up to five exceptional upcoming leaders.  

AEV CEO Rachel Parker, made the announcement, saying, "We are really excited to introduce the Emerging Talent Award – it’s a new venture for us at AEV and we are looking forward to celebrating members who are demonstrating the best in the venue sector.”

The closing date for entries is Friday 18th September and the Class of 2026 will be announced at the AEV annual conference being held at ICC, Olympia on Thursday 26th November 2026.

Parker added, “The winners will receive a complimentary pass to join us at our conference in addition to access to a mentor from our board or conference steering group, and special board and venue visits. Our members always enjoy the strong networking connections and valuable learning opportunities our association brings, this award takes it even further, recognising the values the Class of 2026 are already exhibiting. We are thrilled to be launching it at our tenth conference in Olympia’s newest, future facing form.”

Find out more about the Emerging Talent Award at https://www.aev.org.uk/emerging-talent-award