Event sustainability organisation isla has appointed Toni Griggs as Growth Lead to drive and shape further expansion.

Griggs, who starts the new role next month, will be responsible for the continued growth of the now 80-strong membership while driving strategic partnerships, projects and initiatives that will accelerate event businesses environmental sustainability performance in line with isla’s core aims.

This will include taking to market new isla products and resources scheduled for release in 2021, including a cutting-edge event-specific carbon measurement software.

Toni brings with her over 11 years of events industry experience. This includes being part of the senior team at live event and brand experience agency George P. Johnson, where she was responsible for developing and growing the agency brand. As a member of GPJ’s Sustainability Task Force, she was part of the team that pushed the agency’s sustainable agenda, recognising the need for a collective effort by the industry.

“I’m really excited to be joining the isla team. Anna and Ben have achieved so much in under a year with their passion and determination in ensuring that as an industry we play our part in a Net Zero future and commit to actionable change. I want to leverage that energy and momentum, building a network that provides knowledge and power so as a collective we bring back live events sustainably,” said Griggs.

Anna Abdelnoor, islad Co-founder, added: “With COP26 in less than 100 days, we see the next few months as a critical time for both industry recovery and global action on sustainability. This context also makes it a critical time for isla’s continued growth, ensuring we are fit for purpose to lead the industry in the transition to a Net Zero future.

“Toni’s background, from association to agency, as well as her sharp mind and strategic thinking, make her the perfect person to support and develop the growth trajectory of isla as we move from strength to strength. We’re excited to see how Toni takes charge of expansion through her role and pushes us forward.”

Griggs marks the third recruitment in a matter of months for isla as the team continues to evolve to be shaped around the industry and member needs.

In June, the organisation launched proseed, a new universal framework for delivering sustainable events.

isla was launched in September 2020 with 12 founding members and has since grown to 80, with a mix of brands, agencies, venues and event suppliers.