Reflections on the IBA European Regional Forum Retreat in Budapest

Julie Book

Burges Salmon, Bristol

Julie.Book@burges-salmon.com

Day one

Arriving in Budapest, I was excited to join my first IBA European Regional Forum (ERF) retreat as a Council Member. Bringing together over 50 officers, Council Members and Advisory Board members, this was a great (and slightly daunting!) opportunity to immerse myself in the ERF and find out more about their current and upcoming projects.

Within minutes of arriving at a floating restaurant on the Danube, any nerves quickly disappeared. I was instantly welcomed with open arms (particular thanks to Anna Babych and Zoya Todorova for taking me under their wing) and a flurry of introductions followed. Before we sat down to a dinner hosted by Lakatos, Köves & Partners, we were in for a surprise. Led by Péter Lakatos, Managing Partner of Lakatos, Köves & Partners, we were treated to an amazing concert from Singing Lawyers Budapest. Wow, they were incredible and far too talented to be lawyers!

As dinner ended, I was struck by the buzz of conversation around the room. It was clear that this was not just a group of lawyers with business connections, these were friends with a shared interest in strengthening the European network.

Day two

Led by our host, Viktória Szilágyi, alongside ‘King’ Panagiotis Drakopoulos and ‘Queen’ Anna Dabrowska (complete with matching T shirts), we started the day with introductions, helping me put names to the many faces around the table.

This was followed by an engaging session from the chairs of the five working parties, with each providing updates on the current projects for Professional Wellbeing; Diversity and Inclusion (D&I); Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG); Communications; and Next Gen. With council members being encouraged to get involved in at least one working group, this provided a great opportunity to understand how the issues which affect us all are being considered by the ERF and showcased the passion each group has for their chosen area. An update then followed on each of the conferences the ERF hosts (Automotive and Mobility Services; Fashion and Luxury Law; ESG and Start-ups), with an impressive list of speakers and panel topics being discussed.

Following lunch, there was a chance to discuss the role of both the working groups and sub-regions, and how we can increase co-operation between members. A key takeaway for me was how much members value the group, with it being described as a transparent, fair and honest group that enables members to build long lasting relationships. This was clear to see throughout the retreat as everyone openly shared their experiences and views on business matters, whilst also taking the time to get to know each other personally.

Dinner and drinks followed, with a visit to Budapest’s famous ruin bars alongside some of Viktória’s colleagues.

Day three

Saturday saw us explore Budapest with a walking tour led by a knowledgeable local guide (aided by our unofficial guide, Gábor – maybe this is one of his hidden talents![1]) before it was time to say goodbye and, most importantly, a huge thank you to Viktória Szilágyi for hosting an incredible retreat with wonderful hospitality (even bringing chimney cake and arranging good weather for the walk) and, along with many others, creating a very welcoming and inclusive environment for both old and new members.