ConferenceDirect has successful CD Forum and Meeting Summit at the JW Marriott Tampa
EMAIL: larry.hanson@conferencedirect.com
About CD Forum
ConferenceDirect’s CD Forum is of our annual Signature Customer Event for corporate clients. It was held November 10–13, 2025, at the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street. More than 50 of our top customers, partners, and associates attended this year’s gathering. The conference delivered a strong focus on current industry trends and best practices for managing meeting programs.
The event featured an impressive lineup of industry leaders and speakers, headlined by Michael Clarke, B2B Events & Programs, Marriott International. Michael spoke on “Designing Events for Deeper Engagement.”
On November 11, attendees participated in a CSR activity benefiting the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital. The hospital’s mission is to serve the veteran community by providing high-quality healthcare services. As part of the VA Tampa Health Care System, its guiding purpose is to “serve the veteran who served us.” The hospital fulfills this mission through exceptional clinical care, advanced rehabilitation programs, and its role as a teaching hospital preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.
About the Meeting Summit
Following CD Forum, on November 13, 2025, we held the Meeting Summit, an in-depth workshop focused on best practices for implementing a Strategic Meetings Program. The session was facilitated by Gemma Bassett, Founder and Managing Director of Curated. With 25 years of experience in the meetings and events industry, Gemma has led global events teams, optimized stakeholder experiences, and designed strategic meetings management programs. Her expertise includes balancing strategy with stakeholder needs, streamlining supply chains, and enhancing compliance.
About ConferenceDirect
ConferenceDirect, headquartered in Folsom, California, is a full-service global meetings solution company. Our diverse portfolio of services includes Virtual/Hybrid Meetings, Site Selection & Contract Negotiation, Conference Management, Housing & Registration Services, Event Technology, Strategic Meetings Management Programs, Incentive Programs, Cruise Services, Experience Design, Green Meetings, Vendor Management, and Marketing Support. With over 450 associates managing more than 13,000 meetings, conferences, and events for over 4400 customers, ConferenceDirect is committed to delivering innovative and professional solutions. For more information, visit www.conferencedirect.com.
Mission Statement
ConferenceDirect partners with organizations to help them achieve their goals and create memorable experiences for their attendees. With proven global experience, professionalism, and innovative meeting solutions, our team is dedicated to your success.
Signature Events
ConferenceDirect is committed to providing educational opportunities for our customers. Signature events, based on revenue qualifications, are exclusive opportunities available to our current customers for market-specific education.
CD Caring and Connecting
ConferenceDirect supports programs and organizations that impact wellness, corporate responsibility, and sustainability, including Corporate Social Responsibility, Diversity and Inclusion, Sustainability and Green Meetings, Human Trafficking Awareness, Healthy Eating and Menu Planning, Wellness Programs, and Associate Council.