AECEM congress spotlights AI impact and European competitiveness in Spanish business consultancy

The 4th Annual Congress of the Spanish Association of Business Consultants convenes leading figures from public and private sectors to discuss evolving market challenges, AI risks and opportunities, and strategies to enhance competitiveness in Spain’s advisory sector. AECEM's 4th Annual Congress: A Crucial Forum for Business Consultants

The Spanish Association of Business Consultants (AECEM) is poised to host its 4th Annual Congress on May 13, 2025. This key event will take place at La Casa Encendida in Madrid under the slogan "United to Advance." Aimed at advisory firms and professional offices, the congress serves as a platform for over a hundred professionals to engage in meaningful discussions surrounding the significant challenges currently facing the business consulting sector in Spain.

The event will feature an impressive lineup of speakers, including Ana Mato, president of AECEM; Rocío Albert, Minister of Economy, Finance, and Employment for the Community of Madrid; and Antonio Garamendi, president of CEOE, the Confederation of Spanish Businesses. Laura Blanco, a journalist from Capital Radio well-versed in economic discourse, will moderate the proceedings. One of the pivotal moments of the congress will be a presentation from Lucas González Ojeda, acting director of the European Commission Representation in Spain, who will elucidate key elements of the European Competitiveness Compass. This tool is designed to fortify the fabric of European businesses during an era of digital transformation and sustainability, as noted in reports on the initiative.

In an increasingly dynamic market, the first roundtable will focus on the future of advisory services and professional offices. Discussion will encompass new client expectations, the necessity for personalised services, and the critical need for continuous training for advisors. Furthermore, the roundtable will address challenges such as escalating regulatory demands and the importance of advancing certifications as a competitive advantage. According to industry insights, adapting to client needs and implementing these changes can significantly boost profitability and sustainability for consulting firms.

The second roundtable will pivot towards the significance of communication and personal branding. This will involve dissecting the conceptual differences between communication and marketing, outlining the methodologies for constructing a personal brand strategically over time. Speakers will delve into monetisation of visibility and content planning, examining how effective communication can differentiate professionals in a crowded field and foster trust among clients.

A noteworthy session is set to close the congress, wherein Cristina Aranda, a technology consultant specialised in Big Data and Artificial Intelligence, will share her insights regarding the risks and opportunities posed by AI for the business consulting sector. The implications of AI in redefining professional services are profound, as industry experts warn of the potential disruptions while also highlighting opportunities for enhanced efficiency and service innovation.

The joint participation of prominent figures from both the public and private sectors at this congress underscores a collective recognition of the importance of collaboration in addressing the prevalent challenges facing business consultancy. As Antonio Garamendi has emphasised in previous statements, fostering public-private partnerships is crucial for driving competitiveness and economic growth in Spain.

With the backdrop of an evolving market landscape, the congress offers participants a rare opportunity to map out future directions for professional services. The outcomes of these discussions could play a pivotal role in shaping the strategies of consulting firms in Spain, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the demands of a complex and competitive environment.

As AECEM gears up for this significant event, it is clear that the insights shared and networks built during the congress will be vital for the future success of business consultancy in Spain.