Reflecting on Progress and Planning for the Future – Executive Committee Meeting in Prague
On 22nd November 2024, the Executive Committee met in the picturesque city of Prague to discuss key issues for the future of IUCAB. The President Mr. Olivier Mazoyer welcomed the Vice Presidents Ms. Eeva Pakkanen (FIN), Mr. Ricard Penas (ES), Mr. Ralf Scholz (GER), Mr. Axel Sturmberger (AUT) and Mr. Christian Rebernig, IUCAB Secretary General, as well as Mr. Jordi Marti (ES) to the meeting at the Czech Trade Building. Ms. Tintti Ikonen (FIN) participated as observer. In addition, Vice President Mr. Marco Righetti (IT) and Mr. Mark Hogan (US) joined the meeting virtually. With a packed agenda and vibrant discussions, the meeting laid a solid foundation for strategic initiatives and continued growth.
Strategic Business Development
The committee reaffirmed IUCAB’s mission to act as an umbrella organisation representing the national associations without competing with them. The focus remains on reputation building, lobbying at European and international level and supporting the sharing of knowledge between members. The aim is to establish IUCAB as an innovative and protective global advocate for the commercial agents profession.
Updates on LUCA Erasmus+ Project
The LUCA project, which aims to “Level Up Commercial Agents’ Competencies,” continues to gain momentum. The leading project partner Prof. Christian Stadlmann from the University of Upper Austria, presented the progress of the project at the meeting via video. The planned output, which meets the needs of the profession, will offer an e-Learning platform with 4 modules that ensures agents are prepared for modern challenges. This initiative reflects IUCAB’s commitment to education and professional development, fostering greater credibility and higher knowledge among members. The 2-year-project started in 2023 and is co-funded by the European Union.
Enhanced Communication and Networking
Efforts to improve communication have yielded significant results, with growing engagement on LinkedIn and Facebook. Plans for further SEO improvements aim to increase the visibility of IUCAB. Networking initiatives also saw progress, including strengthened ties with SME Connect and Czech Trade.
Czech Trade supports Czech companys in exporting their products. IUCAB with their national Member Associations will foster their engagement and support them to place the products on the international market. Also the relaunched IUCAB B2B platform helps to connect manufacturers and agents globally.
Renewal of the Training Program
6 Associations have to do the renewal of their National Training Program in 2025 to be allowed to use the IUCAB Training Label. The process will start soon.
Commercial Agent of the Year 2025
Preparations are underway for the 16th George Hayward Award, which honours outstanding achievements in the sector. The trophy will be presented to the winner at the next Delegates’ Meeting.
Upcoming Meetings
The next Executive Committee Meeting will be held on 4th April 2025 ad the Finnish Member Associaton (FFTAF) will host the 2025 Delegates Meeting from May 29th – 31st in Tallinn, Estonia.
The meeting in Prague was a testament to IUCAB’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity and collaboration. By combining efforts across communication, training and business development, IUCAB is well-positioned to represent the interests of commercial agents worldwide. Together we will continue to strengthen the global network!
