Marco Forgione MCIEx

Leading the CIOE&IT through global challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions, and economic instability. Transformed the organisation into a world-leading authority on international trade and geopolitics, delivering business-focused advice, guidance, and insights. Achieved exceptional growth by innovating business models, fostering talent, and promoting cross-sector collaboration, resulting in the award of a Royal Charter in December 2023. Generated over £100m in contracts through strategic negotiations, securing multi-year, multi-million-pound deals. Drove financial growth, increasing income from £2m to £16.5m and adding £24m to reserves. Expanded membership from 2,500 to over 4,000, enhancing value through new services and products. Restructured operations and grew the team from 15 to 150, earning Investors in People Silver Award. Led market expansion into EU, Africa, Asia, and Middle East, building collaborations with governments and multinational organisations. Served as respected advocate and analyst for global media including BBC, The Times, The Washington Post, CNN, Financial Times, and Al Jazeera. Represented UK MSMEs on key bodies: UK Economic Security Business Group, Chair of E-Commerce Trade Commission, UK B20 representative.

Represented the UK's £4bn fine art and antiques sector, driving international development in international markets. Enhanced member value through new products, services, and digital channels. Refreshed the BADA Fair and boosted media coverage. Increased membership by 35% and diversified assets to add £200,000 in annual revenue. Appointed to HMRC's SME Business Advisory Panel, influencing trade policies. Established new commercial partnerships and increased media coverage by 200%.

Initiated and executed the merger of IVCA and Eventia to form EVCOM, combining diverse memberships and operations while adding value for members and partners. Increased membership by 20% and established three sector-leading awards programs. Secured the first UK agency commission for a Chinese promotional film, expanding international reach.

Strategic and operational leadership of the international, independent, not for profit membership organisation representing commissioners and creators of film, digital and live events in the corporate and public sectors. Representing a key creative sector valued at over £3bn to the UK economy. Establishing IVCA as a key strategic partner for UK Government in promoting the UK's creative industries internationally.

Tackled operational underperformance, creating the largest work-based learning provider in the South-East. Forged partnerships with businesses, colleges, universities, and international organisations in South Korea, China, Sweden, Slovakia, and Poland. Lifted attendance rates to 80% and improved achievement from 59% to 81%. Established business engagement strategies recognised by OFSTED.

As senior director for this Royal Chartered charity, shaped external relations, commercial development, and operational performance. Increased revenue by 300% and coordinated the successful ratification of the European Landscape Convention. Hosted the International Federation's World Congress.