A coffee with Monique André de la Porte

Having coffee with Monique André de la Porte, UCB’s experienced account manager and spokesperson. Just a few months after the establishment of UCB on September 27, 2010, Monique embarked on her journey to put Utrecht on the map for international conference organisers. She is personally responsible for the international growth and development of the Utrecht Convention Bureau into the organisation we are today.

How do you like to drink your coffee in the morning?

“In the morning, I always need some time to get my internal engine running. A good coffee is a very essential part of my morning ritual. I prefer a traditionally brewed filtered coffee – black, without sugar.”

What is your most memorable congress or event experience?

“There are too many beautiful memories and experiences. But one that has left a lasting impression on me was an exclusive congress dinner with over a hundred guests in the central hall of Kasteel De Haar. It’s a venue that is not easily attainable under normal circumstances.”

Tell us more about your role.

“As an account manager, it is my task to put the Utrecht region on the map as an international meeting, conference, and business event destination. I’m always on the go: traveling the world to participate in exhibitions and forums, attending conferences and summits, connecting organisers with partners and institutions in the Utrecht region, welcoming international conferences and their delegates, guiding site inspections, and more. I have learned a lot in the past 12 years. I have met so many wonderful people, built an enormous network, and still feel a growing passion for my role and for the Utrecht region. I could not achieve all this without my colleagues at Utrecht Marketing and the UCB.”

What are you currently working on/heading towards?

“As a region, Utrecht is on a mission to make lasting, positive change to the health of the world and its people. Supported by leading businesses, institutions and governments, Utrecht has got the skills, resources and facilities to make this a reality. (Inter)national congresses contribute to this. I share the Utrecht, Heart of Health story, which focuses on lifesciences & health and sustainability, during fairs, forums, and congresses. Utrecht is the perfect region to organise congresses related to these themes since Utrecht has the knowledge and expertise to make a contribution.”

What achievement of the Utrecht Convention Bureau are you most proud of?

“It’s very difficult to say; there have been so many great achievements in recent years. For example, the growth in the number of international congresses and the rise in our position on the ICCA ranking (from 93rd European city in 2011 to 56th city in 2019 and 55th in 2022). Also, the positive feedback from congress attendees who, despite having visited and seen many cities, appreciate the beauty of Utrecht and fell in love with the city, just like me.”

What is your favorite place in Utrecht?

“My favorite place in the region is Stadskasteel Oudaen in the city of Utrecht. Oudaen is a classical city castle with a contemporary touch. It is located in a monumental building that houses a grand café, restaurant, salon, brewery, and various (meeting) rooms. One of the things that makes Oudaen unique is the possibility to dock by boat through the canal and then enter the brewery via the quay for a beer tasting. Isn’t that amazing?!”

Who would you like to have your morning coffee with someday?

“I would love to have a cup of coffee with Queen Máxima! She has a very impressive personality. I find her a very sympathetic woman with whom I believe you can have a lot of fun.”

Connect with Monique on LinkedIn