Enhancing Excellence: The Important Role of an MPI’s Regional Operations Managers

Marcelo DeOliveira, Regional Operations Manager,  Meeting Professionals International

In the dynamic realm of event management and networking, Meeting Professionals International (MPI) stands as a beacon of excellence. At the heart of MPI's success lies the dedicated support provided by Volunteer Chapter Leaders serving in every Chapter and Club. These unsung heroes play a pivotal role in nurturing and empowering MPI Chapters and Clubs, ensuring they thrive and serve their members and their member communities effectively.

As a Regional Operations Manager within MPI, I have the privilege of witnessing firsthand the remarkable achievements and vibrant belonging spirit created within our member communities. My role is not merely administrative; it's about fostering growth, collaboration, and excellence in everything we do. Let me shed light on how I, along with my fellow Regional Operations Managers and Volunteer Chapter Leaders, support and empower MPI Chapters, Clubs, and our member communities across the globe.

Strategic Guidance and Planning: Collaborating closely with Volunteer Chapter Leaders, our team assists in crafting strategic business plans that align with MPI's overarching objectives. This involves analyzing market trends, assessing member needs, and identifying growth opportunities. Through my liaison role in the Chapter and Membership Advisory Council (CMAC), I ensure that chapter strategies are informed by industry insights and best practices.

Resource Allocation and Support: Effective resource management is essential for Chapters and Clubs successes. From securing sponsorships to managing budgets, our team provides chapters with the necessary resources they need to thrive. As a liaison between Volunteer Chapter Leaders and MPI, I facilitate access to educational materials, administrative tools, and financial support, empowering Chapters and Clubs to fulfill their mission effectively.

Membership Engagement and Retention: Engaging and retaining members is at the core of what we do. Through networking events, educational workshops, and professional development opportunities, we create a sense of belonging within our member and non-member communities. I collaborate with Regional Councils, particularly in Canada and Northeast US, to support initiatives that resonate with local members' needs and preferences.

Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication is key to fostering collaboration and unity among all Chapters and Clubs. Our team serves as a conduit for information flow between Volunteer Chapter Leaders, MPI headquarters, and external stakeholders. By facilitating communication channels and sharing best practices, we strengthen the bonds within our community, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.

Performance Monitoring and Evaluation: Continuous improvement is ingrained in our culture. Through data analysis and feedback mechanisms, we monitor Chapter and Club performance and evaluate the impact of our initiatives. Twice a year, our team participates in board retreats/summits, where we collaborate with Volunteer Chapter Leaders to reflect on past achievements and strategize for the future. This ensures that our Chapters and Clubs remain agile and responsive to the evolving needs of our members and industry.

In conclusion, as a member of the Chapter Operations Team, I am committed to nurturing excellence within MPI Chapters and Clubs. Through strategic guidance, resource support, membership engagement, communication, and performance evaluation, I empower Chapters and Clubs to thrive as vibrant communities of meeting professionals. My liaison roles in CMAC, Regional Councils, and board retreats enable me to strengthen connections, foster collaboration, and drive innovation across the MPI network. Together, we continue to elevate the standard of excellence in the events industry, one Chapter and Club at a time.

Because when we meet, we change the world.

Marcelo DeOliveira
Regional Operations Manager
Meeting Professionals International
mdeoliveira@mpi.org