The European Association of People Management (EAPM) brought together representatives from its 36 member countries for the 2024Annual Meeting of the Delegates Assembly, hosted in the beautiful city of Larnaca, Cyprus. This annual gathering showcased the strength of EAPM’s mission to advance the HR profession, free from commercial or political influence, through collaboration, shared expertise, and representation.

This year’s assembly was particularly momentous, as it celebrated the addition of new members from Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Serbia; expanding the association’s reach and impact across Europe.

EAPM: Fostering Progress Without Borders

The assembly highlighted EAPM’s enduring role as the premier network for HR professionals in Europe. As Vice President David Ducheyne noted, EAPM’s independence as a not-for-profit organisation ensures its focus remains solely on promoting excellence in people management. This commitment to fostering collaboration was evident throughout the event, with discussions centring on how member associations can leverage their shared expertise to deliver value on a continental scale.

EAPM is also a member of the World Federation of People Management Associations (WFPMA), and the assembly coincided with a WFPMA board meeting, further emphasising the global dimension of HR collaboration.

People: The Heart of Organisations

As Berna Oztinaz so eloquently said, “The power of a strong community lies in the people that make it.” This year’s assembly exemplified that ethos. Organisations are not defined by their systems or structures but by the people who drive them forward. The vibrant exchanges, diverse expertise, and shared enthusiasm witnessed in Cyprus underscored this truth.

From strategic discussions to personal connections, it was clear that the EAPM community thrives on mutual respect and collaboration. With a genuine desire to improve and innovate, delegates left Cyprus with not only projects and initiatives but also strengthened bonds and a renewed commitment to making the world of HR better.

Strategic Updates and Leadership Transitions

Key organisational milestones were addressed during the assembly:

  • The delegates elected Kai Saard from Estonia to the board, succeeding Darko Petrovski from North Macedonia from January 2025.
  • Delegates nominated Martina Burulic as the new treasurer. EAPM President, Berna Oztinaz, thanked Massimo Carluccio for his years as EAPM Tresurer and also thanked HR Swiss for their continued dedication to the Treasury function of the EAPM.
  • Progress reports from EAPM’s working groups were shared as well as upcoming initiatives designed to provide tangible benefits to members.

Reflecting on EAPM’s ongoing evolution, David Ducheyne noted: “We are building on the foundation laid by past president Even Bolstad to drive greater delivery and representation across Europe.” This focus on meaningful outcomes ensures that EAPM’s efforts resonate deeply with its diverse membership.

A Year of Collaboration and Growth

The afternoon session was marked by vibrant discussions and the exchange of ideas among members. With a growing recognition that HR practices transcend borders, participants explored how associations across Europe can better support their members in navigating global challenges such as labour mobility, regulatory shifts, and multinational operations.

Delegates experienced interactive activities such as discussing key questions such as;

  • What key competencies are needed to strengthen your HR association?​
  • How can we, as a community, support each other in developing these competencies?

Gratitude for Exceptional Hosting
The EAPM extends heartfelt thanks to Elli Matsouka, Vicky Charalambous, Artemis Riala and Maria Georgiou, as well as the CyHRMA board, for their exceptional hospitality in Larnaca. The serene Cypriot environment provided the perfect backdrop for deep engagement and creative exchange. Behind the scenes, the dedication of the EAPM secretariat—Rebecca Normand, Natalia Peel, Valentina Anev and Tarryn-lee Coetzee —was instrumental in the assembly’s success. Delegates extended their gratitude to CIPD UK’s continued support of the EAPM Secretariat function. The EAPM Board were key in shaping the hugely successful meeting and thank you to our Board Members for their ongoing support and dedication.

Looking to the Future

As delegates left Cyprus, they carried with them not only a wealth of ideas but also a shared commitment to advancing the HR profession. Projects initiated during the assembly, from enhanced communications strategies to innovative partnerships, promise to further EAPM’s mission of promoting excellence in people management.

As HR becomes increasingly international, EAPM’s role as a unifying force for the profession across Europe has never been more vital. The 2024 Delegates Assembly was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared vision for progress. EAPM Delegates are looking forward to the 2025 Annual Meeting of the Delegates Assembly which will be hosted by HR Pro Belgium in Brussels.