Kongres Magazine talked to Judit Denes, Director of Sales and Marketing at Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest, who was recently named among the top 10 Most Influential Hoteliers in 2021. Judit shared her advice for newcomers in the meetings industry and expressed her opinion on the future of events.
Q1: What does the title of the industry’s most influential individual in the region mean to you?
This title means a lot to me. I have been working in this region and within Kempinski Hotels since 2000, and it shows that efforts don’t come unnoticed.
Q2: Can we say that you are a newcomer in the meetings industry? What inspires you?
As I mentioned, I have been working long years in this industry. What inspires me are the people. This is absolutely a people-centric job, all about connections. I also love how colourful this trade is.
Q3: You have contributed a lot to the development of the meetings industry. What would you say was your greatest achievement so far?
For me, the greatest moments are when Budapest was selected as the destination for a city-wide event. Most of the time, we compete with very prestigious cities, and it is a great achievement if Budapest gains the right to host a congress, conference or any other event. I would mention EPCA as the greatest achievement. I was there when Budapest was the first-time host of this huge event, and I am especially glad that I also played a part in the success.
Q4: What changes would you like to see in the meetings industry in 2022?
I will be glad when the market is more predictable, and we can get rid of the last-minute decisions and of the era when companies are afraid to commit themselves. I know this is the effect of Covid, and that is why I am optimistic that the situation can be normalised again as soon as our life goes back to normal.
Q5: What is your prediction for the future of meetings?
Live meetings will return as the power of live events is still attractive. I think bleisure will be favoured so that business and family time can be combined during a business trip, and this could also work as an incentive for the employees.
Q6: What is your advice for young colleagues making their way in the meetings industry?
For me, this is one of the most varied jobs, and those young colleagues who are open and creative as well as proud to fulfil other people’s dreams will be happy in it.
“Most of the time, we compete with very prestigious cities, and it is a great achievement if Budapest gains the right to host a congress, conference or any other event.”
Q7: Were you more exposed in public after being placed on our list? Do you see this as an opportunity to reinforce the prominence of our industry in general?
Absolutely. It was very touching how many votes and messages of congratulation I have received, also from colleagues and partners I have worked with before. The prominence of our industry is certainly reinforced by these heartwarming moments of appreciation.
Q8: What are your thoughts on our selection of the influencers?
It was fantastic to see how many recognised experts are on the list, and it was an honour for me to be nominated among them.
Q9: In your opinion, who deserves the title of the TOP influencer if you had to choose from the finalists yourself?
Anna Békefi, Managing Director of Budapest Convention Bureau. She has been working a long time in the Hungarian conference industry, and she is a key asset in our trade and a role model for all of us.
