The 2.5-day scientific program featured innovative formats designed to spark engagement and knowledge exchange. Highlights included:

• Dynamic 'fight talks' where experts debated controversial topics
• Intimate breakfast sessions connecting senior clinicians with young practitioners
• Innovation showcases spotlighting emerging talent
• Interactive video demonstrations and 'how I do it' sessions
• Panel discussions drawing from 35 countries' expertise
• Hands-on workshops, giving practical experience using new techniques and equipment

The social program celebrated Liverpool's rich heritage with an elegant President's Dinner at the Maritime Museum and spectacular Gala Dinner at Liverpool Anglican Cathedral, featuring a Beatles tribute act. We also offered post event tours, providing an opportunity to tour the city and visit local sights including the legendary Anfield Football Stadium.

Abbey's role extends far beyond event organization, as ESPO's secretariat since 2014, we provide year-round support including:

Full membership management and communications
Financial administration and fee collection
Technology and database management
Board support and governance
Strategic planning and society growth support
Marketing and promotional activities

This relationship allows us to align each congress with ESPO's long-term objectives, creating continuity across European venues from Dublin (2014) to Stockholm (2018), virtual Marseille (2021), Liverpool (2023), and upcoming Stuttgart (2025).

Global Participation

With speakers from 35 countries, we managed clear communication across time zones including specialized support for international faculty and comprehensive speaker preparation services such as online briefings.

Programme Innovation

ESPO wanted to address previous conference feedback and offer a more engaging programme. We balanced traditional academic content with new formats like simulation sessions and added interactive polling and audience engagement tools. Inclusion was encouraged, with dedicated tracks for emerging topics like innovation and diversity and a special focus on early-career development.

The academic and networking components received overwhelmingly positive feedback. As ESPO’s trusted partner, we are always looking to develop and improve for future years, key learnings from 2023 included:

• Earlier engagement with sponsors and industry partners so they can become partners in delivering interactive sessions trialing equipment
• Reconsideration of session timing and program density, attendees said they had too much at once

As ESPO's trusted partner, we're already implementing these insights into future congress planning while continuing to support the society's broader mission of advancing pediatric ENT care across Europe.