My IBC: Stephen Stewart, TPN ambassador, UK & EMEA

For Stephen Stewart, IBC helps to clarify how different best of breed' software can be connected together in a straightforward way to achieve the results or build the workflows needed today and tomorrow

By TVBEurope Staff

Published: September 11, 2024

For Stephen Stewart, IBC helps to clarify how different best of breed' software can be connected together in a straightforward way to achieve the results or build the workflows needed today and tomorrow

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How long have you been going to IBC? I've been going most years since 1998. This will be my 20th IBC.

What's your typical IBC routine: what are you there to see/learn, who are you there to meet? I've had various roles at IBC, which determines my routine. I've been there to represent companies (like Pearson/LPC, BBC, Red Bee Media & Deluxe). In those cases, stand duty and meeting customers and potential customers was my main focus. Of course, a large part of IBC is meeting colleagues and suppliers informally and comparing notes on the latest or most interesting things they'd seen. For that reason on a few occasions, I've taken myself to the show. Finally, carefully scrutinising the programme of events is important so that I make time to attend any conference sessions of particular interest.

Why is IBC important to you in a professional capacity, and how does the show compare to others on the calendar? In a professional capacity, it's important to learn and keep up to date with industry trends. Over the years it has become less about checking out the latest kit and more about understanding how different best of breed' software can be connected together in a straightforward way to achieve the results or build the workflows needed today and tomorrow.

In my roles for the RTS, IET, TPN and Rise, it's also important to be able to take part in their events, moderate conference sessions, help out on their stands and just be available to anyone who wants to know more about any of those amazing organisations

What are you most looking forward to at IBC 2024? I'm looking forward to catching up again with friends and colleagues that I sometimes only see two or three times a year. I'm also looking forward to some exciting announcements from the RTS as well as taking part, as a champion for the IET, in the IBC Accelerator programme. This year has some game-changing, fascinating projects. I'm also looking forward to some interesting Breakfast Briefings, meetings with contacts at The Beach Bar and the normal spate of client dinners. Oh, and I think someone mentioned that there are about 15 halls to investigate too if time allows!

What's your top tip for anyone attending IBC for the first time? Research, research, research. Make a plan to visit all the booths of interest in each hall at the same time so you don't have to walk between halls unnecessarily. Decide which booths you want to see and why (and getting there early gives you the best chance of getting some quality time). Also, leave some unplanned time, as it's often the things you didn't know you would come across that are the most interesting.

During the day, try to get out of the halls. Crossing the road in any direction and walking five minutes will give you some fresh air, and a far greater (and cheaper) selection of food and drink.

Finally, make sure you pick up your free transport card the moment you arrive at RAI.

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