Ross Teague, CEO, Nebula Global Services
1. Connecting Europe’s Service Leaders: A Parisian Chapter of Progress
Last month, I had the pleasure of attending the Service Industry Association (SIA) EMEA Conference in Paris, held over two fantastic days from June 18–19, 2025. The event brought together service leaders, innovators, and partners from across Europe and beyond, all gathering under the shared purpose of advancing our industry through collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange. Set against the iconic backdrop of Paris, the event seamlessly blended informative sessions, engaging discussions, and cultural experiences—exactly what we’ve come to expect from SIA events.
2. The Power of Community: Why SIA Feels Like Home
What struck me most throughout the event—more than the sessions or the scenery—was the unmatched sense of community. SIA continues to be a truly special group. It was wonderful to reconnect with familiar faces, sharing stories of how our businesses and teams have evolved over the past year. Just as meaningful were the new connections formed—each conversation filled with openness, mutual respect, and a shared desire to elevate the service ecosystem. The warmth, generosity, and authenticity of this network is what makes SIA stand out from any other industry association I’ve experienced.
3. A Masterclass in Service Leadership: SIA Speaker Highlights
The content delivered during the conference was genuinely world-class, offering a rich blend of strategic thought, practical insights, and visionary leadership. A few standout moments for me included:
- Guillaume Pitron, who brought fresh perspectives on supply chain sustainability and the digital raw material economy—timely, provocative, and deeply thought-provoking.
- Jan Hoogstrate, whose expertise in the circular economy and future-proof service models opened new doors for how we think about innovation and repairability.
- Evelyne Bouviala, always a powerful voice in the industry, delivered with poise and clarity on customer experience evolution and the human element of technology services.
- Eric Beaudet, who shared compelling insights around the convergence of IT and operational excellence—his depth and clarity gave the audience plenty to reflect on and apply.
Each speaker brought something unique to the table, but what united them all was the depth of their knowledge and their generous willingness to share it.
4. Hospitality at Its Finest: Evernex, Jiliti, and the Magic of Paris
We were incredibly fortunate to be hosted by two of the industry’s most respected players—Evernex and Jiliti. From the moment we arrived at Evernex’s facility for a guided site visit and executive Q&A, to our conversations with the Jiliti team over dinner, it was clear that both companies embody the spirit of innovation and partnership that SIA champions.
Of course, no event in Paris would be complete without a touch of gastronomic magic. Bistro Parisien, with its riverside charm and Eiffel Tower views, and the uniquely interactive Bel Canto, where opera meets fine dining, both provided unforgettable evenings. These dinners weren’t just about the food—they were opportunities to connect on a more personal level, share laughs, and reflect on the day’s conversations in a relaxed setting.
5. Beyond the Sessions: The Power of Belonging to the SIA
As I flew home, I found myself reflecting on just how vital this community is to my own professional journey. The SIA isn’t just a conference series—it’s a global network of people who truly care about shaping the future of the service industry. The collaborative spirit, the openness of dialogue, and the sheer wealth of shared experience is unlike anything else.
My biggest takeaway? That community matters. In an industry that’s constantly evolving—technically, economically, and environmentally—being part of a group that shares knowledge, supports innovation, and celebrates collective wins is priceless. And the SIA, without a doubt, is the most collaborative and inspiring community in our sector.
