ERA - THE ARENA GHENT
For its annual Kick-off, ERA gathered some 500 employees at The Arena Gent in early 2025. A special day when the entire team was immersed in an inspiring program around technology, innovation and collaboration. The choice of this location was deliberate: ERA wanted a place where energy, connection and vision come together - just like within its own network.
The program played out in plenary in the grandstand, where speakers such as CEO Johan Krijgsman, COO Kathleen Van Beveren and keynote Katja Schipperheijn shared the stage.
The content was all about AI and technological innovation, but always with people at the center. The grandstand setup made for a powerful setting: grand, but personal at the same time. The stadium feel gave the Kick-off just that extra élan, without losing sight of the human aspect. During the intermission and afterwards, guests streamed through to the Promenade, where an extensive catering lineup was ready for them. Not just a reception, but a moment of togetherness, meeting and reflection in an open and stylish space. The spacious layout, sightlines and informal atmosphere created a natural dynamic between the various ERA offices.
The sessions in the break-out rooms on Level 3 provided space for deepening and exchange. Smaller groups reflected on concrete strategies for the future, each time in a quiet environment away from the crowds. That contrast - between plenary inspiration and building on it in smaller groups - worked perfectly for the hybrid nature of the event. The close collaboration between the ERA team and our own event managers at The Arena is what makes these events so unique after five editions.
In consultation with their internal organizers, we worked intensively on the set-up, flow and interpretation of the event. From the initial plans to the execution on the day itself, the client was completely taken care of. This shared approach, with an eye for detail and flexibility, allowed ERA to focus on what really mattered: their people, their story and their future. ERA chose The Arena Gent because as a location it suited their ambition: an organization in motion, with a view to tomorrow, supported by a strong team. The combination of charisma, support and comfort made this day more than just a staff party. It became a Kick-off that not only brought people together, but also pushed them forward.
