In an industry defined by constant evolution, very few organisations can claim six decades of continuous innovation, global impact, and resilience. Kenes Group, a global Professional Congress Organisation (PCO) and Association Management (AMC), is one of them.
Founded in 1965, Kenes Group has grown from a pioneering start-up into a global player with 360 professionals across 15 offices worldwide. The company has organised thousands of international events, connecting millions of healthcare professionals, scientists, and thought leaders.
At its core, Kenes has stayed true to its mission: empowering knowledge and, as the company celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2025, the milestone offers a look back and a blueprint for the future of medical meetings and association management.
A legacy of trust and innovation
Since its early days, the company has helped transform scientific meetings from information-sharing gatherings into global platforms for knowledge exchange and collaboration. Over the decades, Kenes has facilitated countless medical breakthroughs and professional partnerships, directly influencing the advancement of healthcare and science.
However, trust alone does not sustain a business for 60 years. Kenes has consistently embraced innovation – adapting to economic recessions, natural disasters, shifting client needs, and most recently, a global pandemic. The company has been quick to integrate digital tools, explore generative AI, and embed sustainability practices into its operations.
CEO Ori Lahav says: “Reaching 60 years is a remarkable achievement, but what truly defines Kenes Group is our ability to innovate and adapt while staying true to our core values. Our journey has been shaped by the trust of our clients, the dedication of our team, and the partnerships we’ve built along the way.”
Celebrating a global milestone in Vienna
To mark its anniversary milestone, Kenes Group gathered in Vienna for its 60th Anniversary Celebration and Leadership Summit back in January 2025. The three-day event united over 300 employees from across the globe, alongside partners and clients.
The celebratory gathering was organised in partnership with the Vienna Convention Bureau and led by vice-president of business development Avital Rosen–Topel. At its core was the Kenes Leadership Summit, where management and partners including Interplan, Kenes M+, derCampus, and Kenes Asia tackled topics such as generative AI, sustainability, DE&I, evolving business models, and engaging the next generation of talent.
CEO Ori Lahav called it “a vital platform for aligning strategies and fostering collaboration.” There was also an All Hands Meeting, held in person for the first time in years, and a CSR initiative that saw 250 care packages donated to Caritas Austria.
For executive chairman and chief vision officer Dan Rivlin the event symbolised something deeper: “We believe in the ability to make a change in the world, we believe in people. This family feeling – built across different cultures and geographies – remains at the heart of our DNA.”
A fresh look for a new era
A major highlight of the anniversary year was the unveiling of a new group brand identity which signalled a forward-looking mindset while honouring the company’s history and includes a refreshed logo. The well-known ‘Swoosh’ – a curved form representing growth and progress – remains central.
The rebranding project involved three design agencies and over 30 proposals. For CEO Ori Lahav, the refreshed identity is a symbol of continuity and ambition: “It is a tribute to the image that has accompanied countless event teams for decades and a fresh start for the decades to come.”
Looking ahead: Innovation, talent, and growth
The 60th anniversary is a celebration of the past, but also a declaration of intent for the future and Kenes Group says it is investing in innovation, expanding its global footprint, and preparing for the next generation of leaders in the meetings industry.
AI and digital platforms are opening the door to smarter, more personalised event experiences and important sustainability initiatives incloude the Kenes Forest, which offsets business travel emissions through tree planting projects, reflecting a long-term commitment to responsible growth.
Dan Rivlin says the story is far from over: “The next chapter will be written by the same values that have guided us for six decades: excellence, innovation, and a deep belief in the power of people to make a difference.”
For the wider meetings and events industry, Kenes’ journey is a reminder that longevity comes not from standing still, but from continuously moving forward.