Dr. Debbie Stanford-Kristiansen is a distinguished leader in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry with over 35 years of experience. Currently the General Manager of Exhibition World Bahrain, she has held prominent roles as CEO of Novo Cinemas and Vice President for PennWell in the Middle East and Asia.
In this interview, Dr. Stanford-Kristiansen shares insights from her remarkable career, currently shaping Bahrain’s events landscape. She reveals how she leads diverse teams across cultures and what drives her success in the dynamic world of global events.
- How did you discover your passion for the MICE industry and event management?
My journey in the MICE industry and event management has been an exhilarating adventure, taking me around the world countless times. It all began in tourism, but I quickly became captivated by the fast-paced world of business tourism, events, and exhibitions. I still remember those early days working with my first managing director, Paul Flacket. He saw potential in me that I hadn’t recognized yet and offered me opportunities that shaped my career.
One of my most cherished memories is from the major tourism exhibitions we organized in Geneva and Frankfurt. Our chairman would always stand at the bottom of the stairs on the final day, personally thanking everyone as they left. Those small but meaningful gestures have stayed with me throughout my career.
The MICE industry has the unique power to unite people and fuel economic growth. There’s an indescribable satisfaction in witnessing an event come to life—watching months of planning unfold into a vibrant, buzzing reality. I’ve always believed in giving my all to whatever I do, and this industry demands just that kind of passion. My guiding principle has always been: “Whatever you do, do it with passion, or don’t do it at all.” That mindset has served me well in this dynamic and ever-evolving field.
- Can you share some of your career’s most significant milestones or achievements?
One of my most cherished milestones was helping establish the Bahrain Exhibition and Convention Authority. I still remember the timing of that opportunity—I received the call while I was in the hospital, about to give birth to my son! It was a pivotal moment, not just professionally but personally. Building the Authority wasn’t merely about the job; it was about giving my children the chance to grow up in a multicultural environment. And Bahrain didn’t disappoint—those eight and a half years were truly fulfilling.
Then came my time as CEO of Novo Cinemas. That experience was a whirlwind! I gave myself just six months to learn an entirely new industry language. It felt like being back in school, only this time with the responsibility of leading a company. But we did it, rebranded, and expanded, and before I knew it, we had 17 locations across four countries: Qatar, UA, Bahrain, and Oman.
But what truly fills me with pride isn’t just the business successes; it’s the team I built. Thirty different nationalities working together—that’s the real magic. Watching people grow and helping them believe in themselves has been the most rewarding part of my journey.
As General Manager at Exhibition World Bahrain, I’ve come full circle. I’m back in the MICE industry, this time leading a venue positioning Bahrain as a premier destination for global events, which has been both exciting and rewarding.
- How do you approach cross-cultural management to ensure effective collaboration and success?
Cross-cultural management has been a defining aspect of my career, shaped by my experience with diverse teams across various countries. My approach is grounded in cultural sensitivity and open communication. Understanding and respecting cultural nuances is essential for building trust and effective collaboration.
I view cultural diversity as a major asset, using varied viewpoints to drive innovation and problem-solving. We develop more comprehensive strategies by building inclusive teams and ensuring a balance of perspectives. Adaptability is key; I adjust my leadership style to fit cultural contexts while maintaining core principles, which might involve modifying communication styles or decision-making processes.
I actively educate myself and encourage my team to do the same, fostering mutual respect and reducing misunderstandings. While respecting cultural differences, I ensure the team is united by common objectives and a shared vision, bridging cultural gaps and aligning toward shared goals.
- How do you contribute to your community and make a positive impact?
Making a positive impact in the community has always been a driving force in my life. It’s not just about achieving business success; it’s about creating a ripple effect of positivity that reaches far beyond the boardroom.
Advancing gender diversity and inclusion, especially advocating for women in leadership, is a cause close to my heart. My experience in the Middle East has been eye-opening in this regard. Contrary to some misconceptions, I have found more opportunities as a woman here than I did in the UK. I’ve witnessed so many talented young women in this region excelling as entrepreneurs or in multinational corporations.
Through my speaking engagements and initiatives, I aim to inspire others and challenge preconceived notions about women in business, particularly in this part of the world.
- What advice would you give to budding leaders looking to enter the industry?
I advise aspiring leaders entering the MICE and event management industry to cultivate a genuine passion for your work. Success takes time. Be patient, persistent, and confident in yourself. You can achieve remarkable things in this exciting field with passion, dedication, and a commitment to growth. Embrace every opportunity, learn from each experience, and remember the impact you can make by bringing people together and creating unforgettable experiences.
