International Association of the Year
Alliance for Rural Electrification
The Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE) is the global association for the decentralised renewable energy (DRE) industry, catalysing private sector-driven markets for sustainable electricity services, creating jobs and powering equitable green economies.
ARE enables improved energy access through business development support for more than 200 Members along the whole value chain for decentralised/distributed renewable energy technologies.
Confederation of Europen Paper Industries
Cepi is the European association representing the paper industry. We offer a wide range of renewable and recyclable wood-based fibre solutions to EU citizens: from packaging to textile, hygiene and tissue products, printing and graphic papers as well as speciality papers, but also bio-chemicals for food and pharmaceuticals, bio-composites and bioenergy.
We are a responsible industry: 91% of our raw materials are sourced in Europe and certified as sustainable, 92% of the water we use is returned in good condition to the environment. We are the world champion in recycling at the rate of 79.3%. At the forefront of the decarbonisation and industrial transformation of our economy, we embrace digitalisation and bring 20 billion value addition to the European economy and €5.5 billion investments annually. Through its 19 national associations, Cepi gathers 480 companies operating 856 mills across Europe and directly employing more than 175,000 people.
Energy Industries Council
The Energy Industries Council (EIC), established in 1943, is a global trade association representing 950 companies, headquartered in 54 countries, in the energy supply chain. With offices in London, Dubai, Houston, Kuala Lumpur, and Rio di Janeiro, EIC offers extensive support to its members to export, diversify and grow.
Member benefits include access to EICDataStream, a global database of energy projects, EICAssetMap, providing detailed asset information and EICSupplyMap, mapping energy sector organisations. Member support services also include a global events program, featuring 130 events, including pavilions, trade delegations, conferences, webinars and regional awards.
Focussing on member engagement has been key to the growth of EIC, with our Survive & Thrive report providing a platform to not only understand members businesses in greater detail, but also providing profile-raising opportunities for the member. Investment in staff to support our member services has been instrumental, with key staff appointments and reintroduction of our lobbying team. A positive culture of celebrating success and commitment from staff has contributed to membership growth of over 50% since 2018. EIC’s excellence has been recognised by awards such as the King’s Award for Enterprise and Market Intelligence Platform of the Year in 2023.
ETSI
ETSI provides its members with an open, inclusive, and collaborative environment to support the timely development, ratification, and testing of globally applicable standards for ICT-enabled systems, applications, and services across all sectors of industry and society.
ETSI, established in 1988 as a not-for-profit organization, has 946 members from 64 countries (end 2023). These include world-leading companies from the manufacturing and service sectors, regulatory authorities, government ministries, small/medium-sized enterprises, innovative start-ups, universities, R&D organizations, and societal interest groups. 23% of our members are SMEs and micro-enterprises, and 15% are universities and research bodies.
‘Designing tomorrow’s world’ is ETSI’s strategy that recognizes the global importance of ICT for society’s sustainable digital transformation. Our vision is to be at the forefront of Information and Communication Technology and to lead the development of standards that enable a sustainable, securely connected society. To deliver this vision, ETSI follows a path marked by five key strategic directions that express the journey to achieve our ambitions.
By maintaining an unwavering focus on the future – as we have done for the last three and a half decades – ETSI will maintain its continuing relevancy as an effective participant in the European standards-making ecosystem.
European Association of Communications Agencies
The European Association of Communications Agencies (EACA) is a top contender for the International Association of the Year Award due to its exceptional contributions to the marketing and advertising sector. EACA excels in three key pillars: ESG (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Sustainability, and Talent), marketing effectiveness, and public affairs.
ESG Initiatives:
DEI: EACA’s DEI Task Force and Global DEI Census 2023 promote inclusivity across European agencies. Initiatives like the “She is a Keeper” playbook and “Creative Equality in Advertising” report address gender inequality and talent retention.
Sustainability: EACA champions environmentally responsible practices through the Ad Net Zero Europe Hub and the EACA Sustainability Task Force.
Talent Development: The Young Board initiative empowers emerging professionals, fostering innovation and addressing the talent crisis.
Marketing Effectiveness:
EACA runs the prestigious Effie Awards Europe, spotlighting impactful campaigns. Collaborations with Kantar and workshops enhance industry knowledge.
Public Affairs and Advocacy:
EACA shapes a supportive regulatory environment, addressing legislative challenges and advocating for members’ interests. Initiatives like the EACA AI Hub and the “Value of Advertising” event promote the industry’s economic and cultural significance.
EACA’s innovative strategies, commitment to sustainability, and industry-wide impact make it a deserving candidate for this award.
Institute of Employability Professionals
The IEP (Institute of Employability Professionals) is the international membership body for employability professionals who help some of the most disadvantaged people in society gain work, progress in work, and retain work. Our vision is ‘Employability Professionals Everywhere Ar the Best They Can Be”. Over the past 12 months we have successfully advanced the aims of the employability sector, delivered significant value to our members, and enhanced our international reputation. Our focus on quality improvement, professional standards, and building a global community has positioned IEP as a leader in the global sector. We are building a vibrant and thriving community of practitioners wherever they are in the world.
The Institution of Structural Engineers
In 2023, we significantly advanced the science and art of structural engineering, focusing on Structural Safety and Climate Action. These strategic themes, established in 2019, are central to the IStructE’s mission and aims.
Our proactive and inspirational approach involved IStructE leading the conversation in 2023 regarding two high-profile issues related to Structural Safety and Climate Action: Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in the UK and our global Climate Action initiatives.
All our work aligns with our Royal Charter to promote and advance structural engineering and facilitate the exchange of information and ideas. Through impactful projects and policies, we advocate for our members and the broader industry, collaborating to champion the work of structural engineers. We have significantly influenced our members and the industry, providing outstanding support, resources, and professional development opportunities, with an ongoing commitment to professional excellence and leadership.
World Commerce & Contracting
World Commerce & Contracting (WorldCC) is a global leader in contract and commercial management (CCM), serving over 70,000 members in 180 countries. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2024, WorldCC provides resources in research, benchmarking, tools, learning, webinars, and networking.
As a non-profit, its mission is to enhance CCM practices through training, certification, and advisory services. Key initiatives include the updated Contract and Commercial Management Practitioner (CCMP) certification, Modern Contracting workshops, and an online Introduction to Relationship Management program. A 2019-2022 survey showed a significant increase in CCM professionals with qualifications, and WorldCC-certified professionals now earn notably higher salaries.
WorldCC is renowned for its research, producing impactful papers on topics like AI and ESG in contracting. Strategic partnerships, such as with the National Contract Management Association (NCMA), enhance industry standards. Events like AI Contracting Week and regional roadshows reflect WorldCC’s adaptability and member-focused approach.
Operational improvements include a new CRM and enhanced marketing strategies, leading to increased recognition and engagement. Growth initiatives include the WorldCC Foundation, free CCM resources, and expanded APAC region activities. The Student Connect initiative and tiered membership pricing further demonstrate WorldCC’s commitment to accessibility and member engagement. WorldCC exemplifies excellence and leadership in CCM, setting industry standards
