The Miller Tanner Associates’ (MTA) difference is our people. That’s why we want to introduce you to our team of superstars that brings our corporate meetings and events to life for our customers. Today, we introduce you to Vanesa Bertolez, Associate Director, Business Development.
With a strategic mindset and an exceptional talent for connecting people and ideas, Vanesa brings a wealth of expertise to MTA. Vanesa’s ability to cultivate relationships and her deep industry knowledge uniquely position her to understand both the challenges our customers face and the opportunities to create meaningful meetings and events across the EMEA region.
Meet Vanesa Bertolez, Associate Director, Business Development
Strengths as defined by Clifton StrengthsFinder? Strategic, Arranger, Connectedness, Ideation, and Individualization
Languages spoken: Spanish (native) and English (professional working proficiency)
Tell us about your current role with MTA. What are your primary responsibilities?
I recently joined MTA as part of the Business Development team, where my primary focus is strategic European growth. My role centers on identifying and connecting with key decision-makers—marketing directors, event leaders, and corporate stakeholders.
What did you do before joining MTA?
Before joining MTA, I spent 25 years in the events industry, working across agencies, corporate environments, and international projects. My background includes event production, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, & Exhibitions) strategy, marketing, and client management, across life sciences, automotive, insurance, retail, and banking industries.
I also developed a parallel career in coaching and personal development, leading initiatives such as Coaching en Femenino and Dharma Mujer Infinita, focused on empowering women through mindset, clarity, and confidence. This combination of event expertise + human development gives me a unique perspective on how to create experiences that truly connect people.
What do you feel are the most fulfilling aspects of your job?
My favorite part of the job is definitely connecting with people. I love building strategies, designing, and seeing businesses grow through genuine care and hard work.
What are some of the latest trends you are seeing within the meetings and events industry?
Smaller, more high‑impact events are focusing on relationship‑building. Hybrid and immersive formats are using XR, AR, and advanced streaming. There’s a strong push toward sustainability and ESG reporting. Many events have an integrated approach with broader marketing and talent strategies. And there’s a demand for personalized attendee journeys and curated content.
What are some key strategies for launching a successful meeting?
Clear alignment on purpose and outcomes. Understanding the audience and designing tailored engagement. Strong storytelling and content flow. Seamless logistics supported by technology and data. A focus on experience, not just execution.
What is the one must-have for every event?
A clear narrative. Every event needs a story—why we are here, what we want to achieve, and how the experience connects people to that purpose.
What makes Miller Tanner Associates stand out as a meeting planning company?
MTA stands out because of its innovation and people-first approach.
The combination of technology, global expertise, compliance excellence, and a deeply collaborative culture allows MTA to deliver meetings more efficiently and with higher quality than traditional agencies.
Why do you think that the MTA Workshops are important? What do you get most from this time together?
The workshops create a space for connection, alignment, and shared learning. They allow us to understand each other’s strengths, refine processes, and strengthen the culture that makes MTA unique.
For me, the most valuable part is the sense of community—feeling part of a team that is truly committed to excellence.
Where are you from and where do you currently reside? What do you enjoy most about the area? Any recommended tourist spots?
I am originally from Spain and currently live in Madrid. What I enjoy most is the energy of the city, its cultural diversity, and the balance between history and modern life.
Recommended spots: El Retiro Park, Templo de Debod at sunset, Barrio de las Letras, The Royal Palace & Almudena Cathedral, and of course, Madrid’s incredible food scene.
What do you do for fun?
I love traveling, exploring new cultures, spending time in nature, and creating content for personal development. I also enjoy meditation, wellness practices, and discovering new places with my daughter.
