Ever wondered what it really takes to bring a Marketing Association conference to life?
From candy bar emergencies to last-minute floor-plan tweaks, Marketing Association's Event Manager, Roxy Lee, takes us behind the curtain on what it’s really like to deliver an event of this scale and quality.

Roxy has been with the Marketing Association for nearly 9 years, and she's a huge part of the successes of our events! And now, for the first time ever, we've asked Roxy the secrets of event management.

  • You’ve got a little over a month to go, how are you feeling? Excited? Nervous? Totally calm and collected?

Excited and calm. After years of running events, it’s less about nerves and more about healthy pressure, and that pressure helps me stay focused.

  • For those who aren’t in the events world, what does this final month actually look like?

The last month is when everything shifts into execution mode. It’s making sure all logistics are confirmed, and all the small details line up. It’s busy, but it’s also when you see the event really starts to take shape. An example of some final details taking shape is confirming onsite activations, run sheet, floor plans, etc.

  • Based on past events, what’s your favourite moment during the day?

When the day wraps and you see people leaving with energy, new ideas, and connections. That’s incredibly rewarding and it’s a reminder of why we do all the work behind the scenes.

  • Is there anything new or different about Brand Summit that you're especially looking forward to?

The speakers, of course, are a big one! But I’m also really looking forward to seeing what our event partners bring to the table this year. They play such a big role in shaping the experience, and it’s always rewarding to see our partnerships come to life on the day. For example, we’re excited to have Awkward Animation at Brand Summit this year where they will be doing live animations throughout the day! Super cool.

  • What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from running events over the past 3 years?

You can plan everything down to the minute, but things will change. Having plan B, C and D is important, but most importantly, flexibility and problem-solving in the moment are just as valuable as preparation. For example, recently, we faced a sweeter challenge – the Candy Bar ran out of treats! Thankfully, our membership team made a fast run to Gilmours to keep everyone happy.

  • What still manages to surprise you about event day, no matter how many times you’ve done this?

How quickly it goes. You spend months planning and then it’s over in what feels like a few hours.

  • What’s one thing most people don’t see when it comes to running a large event like this?

How many tiny adjustments are made throughout the day. Adjusting timing, moving furniture, solving issues before anyone notices.

  • Can you describe the moment when you know the event is a success?

For me, the real measure of success comes after the event. When people are still talking about it and sharing posts. It’s also when I read through the feedback survey and see that people genuinely took away something useful.

  • Any rituals or good-luck habits you have before the doors open?

Not really. Unless you count making sure I’ve had two coffees before the doors open. That’s my only must have.

  • If you could give your younger event-manager self one piece of advice, what would it be?

An event is about people, not ticking every box on the checklist. Things won’t always go perfectly, the real job is handling the moments that don’t.

  • What's been your most memorable Brand Summit moment so far?

The first Brand Summit will always be a highlight. Launching something new was fun and unforgettable, but what makes it even better is seeing how the event continues to evolve each year.

Brand Summit 2025 is happening on 9 October, where Aotearoa’s sharpest marketers come together to challenge ideas, build brand expertise, and make valuable industry connections. Click here to learn more about the speakers and topics scheduled for the day.

Source: Marketing Association, 15 September 2025