New IAPCO Training Academy Chair Appointed

Stephen Noble, Manager (APAC) from The Conference Company, New Zealand and Australia has been appointed as Chair of the IAPCO Training Academy. The appointment follows the departure of Mathias Posch of ICS following his term as IAPCO President who had oversight of IAPCO’s education programmes since 2021. Stephen Noble has been involved in the Training Academy as a Regional Representative for APAC and is an experienced member of the IAPCO

14 Mar 2024
Picture of Stephen Noble, the new Chair of the IAPCO Training Academy.

Stephen Noble, the new Chair of the IAPCO Training Academy.

This pivotal role will see Noble spearheading the continuous education and professional development initiatives within the global meetings industry under IAPCO’s banner.

Stephen’s appointment comes at a historic juncture, as 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of IAPCO’s renowned education seminars. For half a century, IAPCO has been at the forefront of empowering meeting professionals worldwide with cutting-edge knowledge and best practices.

The IAPCO Training Academy has long been a beacon of excellence, providing a comprehensive curriculum tailored to the ever-evolving landscape of the meetings industry. Under Stephen’s leadership, the academy will be instrumental in shaping the future trajectory of IAPCO education and ensuring it remains at the forefront of the meetings industry.

Stephen’s appointment follows the departure of Mathias Posch of ICS as the Academy Chair, who also served as the IAPCO President and oversaw the association’s education programs since 2021. Mathias’ tenure was marked by a steadfast commitment to delivering high-quality, relevant and impactful learning experiences for IAPCO members and the broader meetings community.

With an extensive background in the industry and a proven track record of delivering IAPCO’s EDGE seminars across the Asia-Pacific region, Stephen brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role. His involvement as a Regional Representative for APAC and as an experienced member of the IAPCO faculty has equipped him with a deep understanding of the diverse needs and challenges faced by meeting professionals worldwide.

As the Chair of the IAPCO Training Academy, Stephen will curate a comprehensive educational program that addresses the most pressing topics and emerging trends in the meetings industry. From cutting-edge technology and sustainability practices to strategic planning and negotiation skills, the academy’s curriculum will empower professionals to excel in their respective fields.

In this milestone year, IAPCO’s commitment to educational excellence remains unwavering. With Stephen Noble at the helm, the IAPCO Training Academy is poised to usher in a new era of learning, fostering a community of knowledgeable, adaptable, and forward-thinking meeting professionals who will shape the industry’s future.

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IAPCO EDGE Stockholm 2026

Registration is open for IAPCO EDGE Stockholm, 18–21 January 2026

Hosted in 📍 Stockholm, a city built on 58 bridges, our theme “Bridging Minds: A Collaborative Innovation Journey” comes to life through a unique programme design


Registration closes on 11 January 2026. 

This will be a very special edition of EDGE as we mark 10 years of IAPCO EDGE globally — a decade of dynamic learning, shared experiences, and a community that continues to raise the bar across the meetings industry. 

Join us as we celebrate #EDGEat10 and ignite the next decade of learning, leadership, and impact.