Bringing the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)’s annual conference to Birmingham in 2025 is a real endorsement of the city’s capacity for hosting large events.  This is the first time that the conference has been in the Midlands for over a quarter century.  I’m really excited to be part of the Conference Ambassador Network which has given me access to a range of experts and advice that has proved tremendously valuable when organising a conference in the city.