A prestigious Fortune 500 pharmaceutical client required us to design a flawless three-day experience, where their global senior leadership could come together face-to-face for the first time in two years.   

This leadership meeting called for a chic, sophisticated venue that was both large enough to accommodate 150 guests and was easily accessible to city centre transport hubs. Following a thorough search of multiple southern European hotspots, we settled on the The Sheraton Hotel and Spa Lisboa. 

Located in the heart of Lisbon, this modern gem welcomed delegates to their stylish guest rooms overlooking the city’s bustling business district. Although the original brief indicated approximately 130 attendees, the number of delegates increased to 150, comprising 25-30 senior leaders/presenters and more than 100 Global Account Directors with a few HR colleagues in the mix. Delegates flew in from the United States (primarily east coast) and Europe with a small number flying in from Asia.   

Based on our careful and considered initial conversations with the client, we understood that delegates needed to focus on strategic planning for the future of their global brand. But they also needed to relax, network, build rapport and share memorable moments with their international colleagues. As we have seen with many of our clients recently, this was some of the delegates’ first time being back together in-person   

Following their arrival drinks reception, guests settled in for a good night’s rest in preparation for two packed days of strategising and planning. The Panorama rooftop restaurant provided the perfect location for the group’s intimate private breakfasts during their stay where they could take in the breathtaking Lisbon sunrise views with their peers.  

A Feast for the Senses 

On the second night, we organised for the client, an exquisite dinner, held in the magical surroundings of Estufa Fria, Lisbon’s Botanic Gardens.  

With a Portuguese guitar duo providing the perfect audible backdrop, diners sat nestled under the lush green foliage indulging in their three-course culinary journey including: seared scallops with tangerine, Rossini Tornedo with a Madeira wine reduction and a Portuguese trio of desserts, catered by Casa do Marques. Sublime! Each delegate was also treated to traditional Portuguese baked goods which were delivered to each of their hotel rooms as a special treat!  

 

Our team of event experts ensured our clients did not need to lift a finger during their relaxing, and productive, three-day stay in Lisbon, leaving them to focus their intention and attention on vital business objectives.  

A Sprinkling of Travel Chaos 

It wouldn’t be an international event if travel disruption didn’t show up to the party. With Brexit and ongoing airport delays across Europe, our delegate gift bags got unceremoniously apprehended at customs. Integrity to the rescue! Our team took to the Lisbon high street and hunted down some artisanal alternatives: beautiful coasters in the style of traditional Portuguese tiles, a personalised handwritten welcome card, handmade dark chocolate shaped sardines, and a variety of snacks and stationery.