A Note of Reflection from IAB HK's Chairman
As we reach the end of another fruitful year, it’s time to give thanks and express my appreciation to my IAB Hong Kong family for all your commitment, time, and passion in elevating digital marketing and advertising standards in Hong Kong. It has also been my honor to lead the IAB HK as Chairman for the 2023-24 term.
Under the theme "Digital Future Together", 2024 has presented both challenges and remarkable achievements. Our community has demonstrated resilience and innovation in the ever-changing marketing landscape, contributing to a thriving industry.
This year, we celebrated the success of our three flagship initiatives:
- Digital Awards 2023 & 2024: Our awards are growing from 4 to 6 and now to 8 categories. In March, we celebrated the best digital campaigns alongside 350 local digital marketing experts, and we eagerly anticipate another wonderful gala in March 2025, where we will network and recognize outstanding achievements in the industry.
- C24 Conference: The second edition of our annual conference continues to grow, becoming the city's top AI marketing event. This year, we welcomed over 1,000 industry professionals who shared the latest innovations in AI and advertising technologies. I look forward to its continued development as it becomes the region's leading digital conference.
- Apprentice Program: Our commitment to nurturing the next generation of digital marketers has flourished, providing essential training and internship opportunities.
In addition to mega events, we have curated regular gatherings to exchange on the latest trends:
- Brand Chat Friday: A platform for brands to share the latest marketing insights and commerce skills through engaging events. Thanks Commerce Committee in hosting events on topic of Social Commerce and Innovation in Commerce respectively in May and November.
- Adtech Friday: An engaging community drink series designed to foster adtech knowledge sharing and collaboration among digital marketers. Special thanks to Adtech & Programmatic Committee for featuring discussions on key topics like the Post-Cookie Era, Retail Media, and Designing Ads for Performance and Engagement in Feburary, July and November respectively.
- Gensssss Voice in Battle: In June, nearly 200 brands and industry experts gathered to gain insights from KOL guests on how to effectively connect with Gen Z audiences through content marketing. Additionally, IAB HK's survey titled "Digital Content Behaviors of Gen Z" revealed that 20% of Hong Kong Gen Z respondents aged 13 to 29 are interested in becoming content creators (KOLs), motivated by advertising opportunities and the potential for extra income. We extend our gratitude to the Content Marketing Committee for their creative efforts.
- Measurement Event: Organized by the Measurement Committee in November, this event focused on harnessing the power of first-party data to drive business growth and informed decision-making.
IABHK is taking a more significant role as the content creator, with new initiatives below:
- Adtech Articles: A focus on local perspectives in Adtech, including sustainable data practices, DOOH advertising, and retail media networks in Hong Kong.
- The Leaders Lounge: In this new video series, top marketing gurus have shared invaluable insights on trends and strategies in their business areas. Huge thanks to SCMP for sponsoring this series.
- Measurement Fuel Stop: Building on our Data Academy program, this video series will cover essential measurement topics, including privacy-centric practices and performance tracking.
Together, The Leaders Lounge and Measurement Fuel Stop have achieved a combined total view rate of over 304,000.
While 2024 presented challenges, including shifts in the job market and the rapid advancement of AI, we have adapted and positioned ourselves for future success.
A big round of applause to our dedicated Executive Committee, Working Committee, and all our members for your contributions. Together, we are building a stronger and more inclusive digital marketing ecosystem. Thank you for your partnership, trust, and engagement this year. Let's recap this year's special moments in the 2024 event slideshow!
To that end, please join us on 15 Jan 2025, at our AGM, where we will officially appoint our new Executive and Working Committee members to leadership positions for the next term.
May the coming year be a tapestry of success, laughter, and cherished moments, weaving together the threads of shared experiences and newfound aspirations, Happy New Year.
Best regards,
Kevin Huang
IAB HK 2023-24 Chairman
