The Miller Tanner Associates’ (MTA) difference is our people. That’s why we want to introduce you to our team of superstars that brings our corporate meetings and events to life for our customers. Today we introduce you to Global Experience Designer – Production Anna Vincze, MTA’s Hungary-based associate. Anna is a seasoned expert in event production, project management, and event planning. She utilizes her expertise to bring to our customers fully integrated, exceptional event experiences through seamless production.
Meet Anna Vincze, Global Experience Designer – Production
Strengths (based on CliftonStrengths): Harmony, Intellection, Input, Consistency, Developer
Languages spoken, if applicable. Hungarian, English, and French
Tell us about your current role with MTA? What are your primary responsibilities?
I am a global experience production manager. Currently, I am focusing mostly on virtual events, as my role is to guide the customers throughout the virtual event experience, identify their needs, and offer suitable technical solutions. I also help the speakers prepare and familiarize themselves with the platform. I provide support during the event and perform behind-the-scenes tasks.
How long have you been with MTA? I started working for MTA in 2021 and I joined the team full-time in June 2023.
Is your background in media production? What did you do before MTA?
I spent the first 8 years of my career in the hotel industry where I worked in 5-star hotels in Budapest as an event specialist, organizing conferences, corporate events, and weddings. During that time, I worked in close cooperation with audio-visual production companies, and I was always amazed by their work and how much impact they have on events. So, I decided to try something new and started to work as a project manager at an AV production company which allowed me to explore new aspects of event management. Then the pandemic happened and I shifted my focus to virtual events which was a bit of an unknown terrain at that time, but it was very exciting to explore the possibilities and learn new things every day.
What do you enjoy most/favorite aspect of your job?
I love the entire process of event planning – the fact that we start from scratch, the customers come with a broad plan, we work out the details and then make the whole thing happen. AV is usually not the primary interest of the customers, but I love to show them how much you can achieve with a little effort. You can completely transform the ambiance of a venue by simply changing the lighting or elevating the attendee experience by adding some interactive tools; you can even leave an impression by selecting the right music for a specific moment. When it comes to virtual events, most people are not big fans and some even find it scary because they feel like they are not in control. It makes me really happy when I can make that process stress-free and help them achieve an engaging and successful meeting – even if it is completely virtual.
What’s been your most favorite location for a meeting and why?
A few years ago, I had the opportunity to spend a week in Edinburgh working on a conference. I instantly fell in love with the city, the historical buildings, the pubs, and the whole atmosphere. The highlight of the program was the gala dinner at the National Museum of Scotland where a band called Red Hot Chili Pipers played hit songs on bagpipes. It was an incredible experience!
What makes Miller Tanner Associates stand out as a meeting planning company, in your opinion?
The whole team is passionate about their jobs and dedicated to exceeding expectations. As an employee, I appreciate the level of trust that we have at MTA. You have the space to manage your work at your discretion but, at the same time, if you need support, you can 100% rely on your colleagues.
What’s your best advice that you would give to a customer when it comes to planning their media needs?
My suggestion would be to rely more on your event manager and production manager. You are working with professionals for a reason, and you can trust that any recommendation or guidance provided by MTA serves the best interest of your event.
Any trends in media production that you are noticing?
Virtual and hybrid events are definitely here to stay, especially as people get more and more used to the convenience and accessibility that these solutions offer. Also, attendees are increasingly using smartphones and mobile devices during events so you can share a lot more information or plan engaging activities through applications. This trend is also beneficial from a sustainability aspect as there is no need to print so many materials.
Since you travel a lot for your position, tell us some of your best travel tips.
I always keep a 24-hour survival kit in my carry-on bag as you never know when you will see your luggage again. I also love travel-size products, I know they are not very economical, but you can save a lot of space in your suitcase, and they look cute. 🙂
Why do you think that the MTA Workshops are important? What do you get most from this time together?
It is so great to spend some time with the team in person! I find it very useful and refreshing that we can share our experiences with each other and be able to spend some time together outside of the daily work. Not to mention the amazing locations!
You are currently based in what city? How long have you lived there? What are some of your favorite things to do or sites to see there? What do you enjoy most about where you live?
I currently live in Budapest. I was born in the southern part of Hungary, and I moved here for my studies when I was 18. Budapest is an incredibly beautiful city. Whenever I cross one of the bridges over the Danube, I always stop for a minute to enjoy the view, you can never get enough of that. The architecture is amazing, even if you are just walking down a random street you can always find some hidden gems. I live very close to the City Park which has a lot to offer including a small castle, a lake, and a lot of cool places where you can hang out when the weather is nice.
What interests do you have outside of your professional pursuits?
Budapest has an insane food scene; I love exploring new places in my free time. Apart from the traditional Hungarian food, the options are endless, you can find amazing places whether you like Italian, Mexican, Lebanese, or Asian food. I also love to try new recipes at home, and then enjoy a nice book or movie with a full belly.
To learn more about the MTA Team, visit www.millertanner.com.