The Business of Meetings – Episode 245 – Inside the Mind of a Corporate Event Production Manager: Insights for Event Business Owners with Evan Babins
We are delighted to have Evan Babins joining us on the show today. Evan is the newly appointed Manager of Event Production at Scotiabank.
In this episode, Evan discusses his career path and shares practical insights for business owners on the best practices for leveraging vendor networks, securing sponsorships, and optimizing trade show opportunities.
Evan’s Path to Event Production
Evan began his career in finance after majoring in accounting. But he soon discovered that his true passion lay in crafting experiences. That led him to the events industry, where his finance background provided the skills needed for budgeting, vendor negotiations, and maximizing project margins. Over time, he built a strong network and reputation in event production, combining his analytical abilities with creativity to deliver high-quality experiences.
The Post-COVID Event Landscape
Since the pandemic, events require a more strategic blend of in-person and virtual components to reach diverse audiences and ensure accessibility. Companies are now focusing more on producing meaningful interactions and immersive experiences to make the event worthwhile, with producers considering health protocols, hybrid engagement strategies, and adaptable formats to remain competitive and impactful.
Navigating Corporate Event Decision-Makers
Evan suggests targeting multiple stakeholders in a corporation rather than just the events team when looking for event service providers. He explains that successful event partnerships rely on trust, mutual understanding, and a strong commitment from both parties, with the support of C-suite executives.
Building a Network of Trusted Partners vs. Vendors
Evan distinguishes between vendors who provide temporary services and partners who offer ongoing support and value. Strong partnerships are based on trust and shared goals, helping event teams thrive and maximize profit. Partners proactively enhance the event, while vendors only fulfill orders.
Developing and Maintaining Vendor Relationships
Evan stresses the importance of building a global network of reliable vendors. You can develop ongoing relationships with vendors by building their trust, communicating openly, and learning from past experiences.
Best Practices for Sponsorship Management
Evan advises event organizers to select sponsors that align with event goals and enhance the attendee experience. He recommends customizing sponsorship packages to maximize ROI and build long-term relationships.
A Strategic Approach to Trade Shows
A strategy for exhibitors to stand out at trade shows is targeting niche events. Instead of attending industry-specific shows, he suggests exhibitors look for opportunities within their sector. Being the only brand in a particular space allows more visibility and engagement.
F1 Racing Dream
Evan would love to attend an F1 race in person. As a devoted fan, he hopes to experience the thrill of the sport up close and meet some of the drivers and team members.
Bio:
Evan Babins has 10 years of experience in corporate event production. Throughout his career, he has had the chance to manage event logistics and technical event production for many world-class clients like Nissan Canada, Equitable Bank, Kia Canada, Novartis, and TD Bank, to name a few. Evan has worked in the live, virtual, and hybrid event spaces, honing his craft as a top-tier event industry trendsetter. Evan has been included in BizBash’s Top 250 Event Professionals, Eventex’s Top 50 Most Influential Event Technology Professionals, Bizzabo’s Top 55 Event Experience Leaders & Special Event Magazine’s Top 20 Young Event Pros to Watch lists.
Evan is currently the Manager of Event Production at Scotiabank, one of the top 6 banks in Canada. He works on internal and external-facing events and experiences.
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Connect with Evan Babins
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