Continuing the Legacy: The Tim Birley Rising Star Award
In 2023, the PCO Association Inc., in partnership with Pan Pacific Hotels Group (PPHG), proudly introduced the Tim Birley Rising Star Award, honouring the memory of a true industry legend.
Tim Birley was not only a consummate professional but a person who embodied care, integrity, and an unmatched commitment to client relationships. His legacy continues to inspire the next generation of professionals across the business events sector.
With applications now open for the 2026 award, we spoke with our 2025 recipient, Vivian Vo about her career journey, what the recognition has meant to her, and her hopes for the future of the industry.
Tell us a little about your career journey so far – what first attracted you to the business events industry?
My interest in event management began in high school and led me to pursue an internship with a Professional Conference Organiser while at university. That experience confirmed how much I enjoyed bringing people, programs and logistics together to create meaningful event experiences. Since then, I have worked across professional conferences and corporate events before returning to conference delivery at Think Business Events as a Senior Conference Coordinator.
What is it about the business events industry that continues to inspire and motivate you?
I am inspired by the impact business events can have beyond the few days onsite. Conferences create opportunities for people to learn, connect and take new ideas back to their organisations and communities. As an organiser, it is rewarding to know the work behind the scenes contributes to those moments of connection and knowledge sharing.
How did it feel when you found out you had been named the 2025 Tim Birley Rising Star Award recipient?
I was genuinely thrilled and very honoured. Receiving the call was a moment of excitement, gratitude and disbelief. To be recognised through an award connected to Tim Birley’s legacy made it especially meaningful, and it felt like a rewarding milestone in my career.
Tim Birley was admired for the way he built genuine relationships and supported others. How do those values resonate with you in your own career?
Those values strongly reflect how I try to approach my work. Conference organising is a people-focused profession built on trust, communication and support. I have always valued being approachable, responsive and solutions-focused, while building relationships through careful listening, clear direction and professional follow-through.
Since receiving the award, have there been any standout opportunities, experiences or connections that have come from it?
A standout experience has been becoming more connected with the wider PCOA community. The award gave me the opportunity to attend the PCOA Conference, meet new industry contacts and broaden my perspective beyond my day-to-day role. Joining the PCOA26 Program Advisory Committee has also been a valuable opportunity to contribute, learn and better understand how industry programs are shaped.
What has been one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned so far in your professional journey?
One of the biggest lessons I have learned is that attention to detail and adaptability must go hand in hand. Planning is essential, but priorities can shift quickly in the lead-up to an event or onsite. Staying calm, prioritising effectively and communicating clearly can make all the difference.
What advice would you share with someone beginning their career in the business events industry?
My advice would be to stay curious, take initiative and learn from everyone around you. Business events is fast-paced and no two conferences are the same, so ask questions, communicate early and embrace challenges as learning opportunities. Strong relationships with teams, clients and suppliers are also key to delivering great events.
Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of your own career and the direction of the industry?
I am excited to continue developing my leadership and team management skills, with the goal of stepping into a Conference Manager role in the future. I am also energised by how the industry is evolving through technology, AI, accessibility and new approaches to delegate engagement. For me, the future of business events lies in combining innovation with genuine care for people.
The Tim Birley Rising Star Award is about more than recognising emerging talent – it celebrates professionalism, passion, connection, and the lasting impact individuals can have on the people and industry around them.
As applications open for the 2026 award, we look forward to recognising the next generation of rising stars who continue to embody Tim’s legacy and contribute meaningfully to the future of the business events community.