Bishop-McCann: DesignRush's Featured Event Management Agency

Bishop-McCann was established by Dan Nilsen in 1997, with headquarters in Kansas City. Event management services encompass its main speciality, wherein the company helps businesses organize corporate events, incentive programs, group travel arrangements, and pharmaceutical meetings.

To date, Bishop-McCann has produced over 30,000 programs across 28 countries, delivering notable achievements for clients worldwide:

• 88% of attendees rating the experience as “Excellent” in post-event surveys
• $310,100 increase in sponsorship commitments
• 98.8% attendance rate across events

Bishop-McCann Has Been Entrusted for Event Management Services by the Following Clients:

What an Event Management Agency Can Do for Your Business?

An event management agency can transform your business events into memorable and impactful experiences that strengthen brand recognition, foster meaningful connections, and drive engagement.

Here are a few more details about their services:

• Event planning ensures seamless execution from start to finish
• Creative strategy transforms ideas into impactful brand experiences
• Event production delivers engaging on-site and virtual experiences
• Travel management simplifies group travel logistics for timely arrivals

When done effectively, event management strategies can amplify your brand's reach, stimulate attendee engagement, and foster lasting relationships. Conversely, poorly executed events can harm customer trust, damage brand reputation, and result in missed opportunities.

Why Choose Bishop-McCann for Your Next Event Management Project

Bishop-McCann is known for:

• Its philosophy of “creating joy” across live, virtual, and hybrid events
• Managing over $1 billion in client budgets
• Hosting more than 1 million event attendees across 350 cities

Bishop-McCann Might Not Be the Best Fit For

Bishop-McCann might not suit the following categories:

• Businesses seeking to host small-scale or low-budget events, as Bishop-McCann specializes in larger, more complex experiences
• Brands planning informal events, as the agency focuses predominantly on professional and corporate gatherings
• Organizations requiring rapid, last-minute event execution

Outstanding Event Management Services Offered by Bishop-McCann

Bishop-McCann's range of event management services includes:

• Creative strategy

  The agency’s creative portfolio covers brand stewardship, theme content development, scriptwriting, and audience engagement methods brainstorming. Across the service, the agency designs and executes brand rollouts, develops storyboards, and creates compelling event narratives to captivate attendees.

• Experiential design

  Specializing in interactive and immersive experiences, Bishop-McCann conceptualizes stage and environment setups, activations, event décor, lighting, and event gifting.

• Event planning

  Bishop-McCann manages all aspects of event planning, including budget and timeline development, registration websites, sponsorship programs, and trade show coordination. The service extends to food and beverage selection, on-site execution, and attendee and VIP management.

• Event production

  Combining technical direction and creative elements, the agency provides video production, motion graphics, live streaming, set design, and speaker acquisition.

• Virtual and hybrid events

  Bishop-McCann transforms live events into engaging virtual or hybrid experiences with custom platforms, virtual studios, interactive content, and high-quality production. Services include attendee registration and support, virtual expo design, event gifting, keynote speaker booking, and post-event reporting.

• Group air travel management

  When engaged for domestic and international travel arrangements, Bishop-McCann handles ticketing, seat assignments, budget management, and VIP travel. Its accredited team ensures smooth air travel with 24-hour assistance, customized reporting, and on-site support.

• Event technology sourcing

  To amplify events’ immersive character, Bishop-McCann integrates virtual reality, augmented reality, gamification, and live streaming technologies.

• Hotel and venue site selection

  Bishop-McCann secures top venues through strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, and cost savings. The company leverages its broad network of industry connections to secure high-end and popular venues while mitigating risks like weather or security concerns.

Bishop-McCann Has Made Its Mark in Different Industries

Bishop-McCann's extensive experience in event management enables it to design impactful, results-driven strategies tailored to diverse business needs across various industries. Here are highlights of the exceptional outcomes it has delivered for clients in different sectors:

• Pharmaceuticals

  • Lucrative philanthropic activation for President’s Club
  • Bringing together 565 researchers and clinicians for a pharmaceutical event

• Food & Beverages

  • $310,100 increase in sponsorship commitments for IHOP
  • Reconnecting 300+ franchisees for Blaze Pizza

• Corporate and Leadership Conferences

  • 98.8% attendance rate for Champions Conference
  • 790 attendees at First Watch's 40th anniversary leadership conference

• Telecommunications

  • A 4.83/5 attendee satisfaction score for Verizon

• Travel and Hospitality

  • Managing air travel for 1,800 attendees amid airline disruptions for a large conference

See Why Businesses Choose Bishop-McCann for Exceptional Event Management Services

1. Virtual Conference for Fast Food Company

"With Bishop-McCann, we’ve hit a home run."

Kathy Whalen, Global Events Manager at McDonalds

2. Virtual Leadership Conference for Doughnut and Coffeehouse Chain

"A pleasure and an amazing conference! Thank you all for your partnership, patience, and persistence!"

Elizabeth Yurchak, Manager at Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation

3. Annual Franchise Conference for Health and Wellness Company

"Thank you so much for such an incredible week. The Bishop-McCann team was unbelievable, and we are all so appreciative of everything you did to make it possible."

Evie Cochran, Sr. Director of Franchise Operations at Wellbiz Brands, Inc.

Certifications:

FAQs About Bishop-McCann

Q1: Why do businesses choose Bishop-McCann for event management?

A1: Businesses choose Bishop-McCann for its full-service event management because of its strong focus on production, attendee coordination, and execution. With a personalized approach and impeccable attention to detail, the agency creates events that translate ideas into captivating experiences that drive reach, awareness, and visibility.

Q2: What sets Bishop-McCann apart from other event management agencies?

A2: Bishop-McCann distinguishes itself through its creative and unique event experiences that forge meaningful connections between brands and their target audiences. The agency's end-to-end approach integrates advanced technology, a proven planning process, and a passionate team that enables it to consistently exceed client expectations.

Q3: How does Bishop-McCann measure success?

A3: Success at Bishop-McCann is measured by client satisfaction, number of registrations, and attendance rate. The company tracks key metrics such as net promoter score (NPS), social media engagement, registrant conversion rate, and lead generation to ensure every event achieves its objectives.

Q4: What is Bishop-McCann’s onboarding process?

A4: Bishop-McCann’s onboarding begins with a discovery session to understand a client's goals, objectives, and event vision. Based on the request, the company then develops a concept and execution roadmap, outlining the creative and logistical elements of planned activities for the event.

Q5: What is Bishop-McCann’s process for executing events?

A5: Bishop-McCann’s event management involves detailed planning, vendor management, on-site coordination, and post-event analysis. The company works closely with clients to refine every detail, including guest invitations, venue setup, and alignment with brand messaging, among other things.

Q6: What is Bishop-McCann’s pricing model?

A6: Bishop-McCann’s pricing varies based on audience size, production complexity, and customized services. The company works with clients to define a budget that delivers optimal value by aligning resources and creative elements with their event goals while maintaining budget efficiency throughout the process.

Case Studies by Bishop-McCann

While client testimonials provide valuable insight into an agency’s capabilities, they only present part of the story. Case studies, on the other hand, offer a deeper look into an agency's strategic approach, showcasing how they address specific project requirements, overcome market challenges, and meet business objectives.

To better demonstrate Bishop-McCann’s event management expertise, we’ve selected case studies that highlight key performance metrics such as attendee engagement and client satisfaction.

Explore these case studies to learn how Bishop-McCann’s event management expertise creates real-world impact for clients.

1. Verizon’s 4.83/5 satisfaction score

• Challenge: Verizon’s Bahamas President’s Club tasked Bishop-McCann with creating a unique experience to celebrate the company’s top performers. The event was envisioned to host 250 Verizon employees in Nassau, Bahamas.
• Solution: Bishop-McCann designed a five-day event, blending luxury and Bahamian culture. Attendees enjoyed personalized pre-trip gifts, on-site gifting suites, exclusive venue buyouts, private excursions, and a vibrant Junkanoo-themed final night party. The program featured a customized awards ceremony, cultural performances, and VIP activities.
• Results: The event surpassed initial expectations, immersing attendees in a culturally rich experience. Notable event highlights included:
  • 4.83/5 satisfaction score
  • 92.8% attendance rate

2. IHOP’s $310,100 increase in sponsorship commitments

• Challenge: In preparation for its 65th anniversary, IHOP partnered with Bishop-Cann to elevate the guest experience at its 2023 Global Franchise Conference (GFC).
• Solution: Bishop-McCann organized a three-day event with a creative, Texas-themed setup that integrated IHOP’s mantra, “Going the extra smile.” Key features included an innovative “Kitchen Stadium,” where IHOP chefs showcased new menu items live on stage and interactive props like a cotton candy lemonade station that delighted attendees.
• Results: The event was a success, reflecting lucrative output:
  • $310,100 increase in sponsorship commitments
  • 868 total attendees
  • 690 IHOP franchise attendees

3. Champions Conference’s 98.8% attendance rate

• Challenge: Champions Conference enlisted Bishop-McCann's services for its 2024 event, set to take place in New Orleans. For the agenda, the client wanted a focus on professional development, customer interaction, and networking. The objective was to improve attendee satisfaction and elevate the event’s value year-over-year.
• Solution: Bishop-McCann infused New Orleans’ vibrant culture across the conference’s theme, featuring unique activities like a marching band, Creole cuisine, and interactive stations. Personalized gifting and a philanthropic partnership with STEM NOLA further enriched the experience, fostering a meaningful connection with the local community.
• Results: Alongside a high attendance rate, the event also registered:
  • 1,178 attendees
  • 98.8% attendance rate
  • 124 breakout sessions

4. First Watch’s 790-attendee leadership conference

• Challenge: First Watch hired Bishop-McCann to plan its 40th-anniversary leadership conference at Disney’s Coronado Springs. The event was envisioned to bring together 790 attendees to celebrate their achievements and provide educational opportunities.
• Solution: The conference featured engaging elements like a 360-photo booth, an 80s-themed lunch, and a personalized ribbon wall. The theme of “Legacy — Celebrating 40 Years of Growth” was reflected in oak tree-inspired designs, cohesive branding, and a charitable donation to the Arbor Day Tree Foundation, wherein First Watch pledged to plant a tree for each attendee.
• Results: The conference received positive feedback for its creative elements and execution. Highlights included:
  • 790 attendees
  • 800+ trees planted
  • High post-event survey satisfaction rates

The Expert Team Behind Bishop-McCann

At DesignRush, we believe the team defines the agency. Through their expertise and experiences, the agency provides strategic insights, innovative approaches, and a collaborative work culture that drives creativity and excellence. Each event is powered by their passion and dedication to outstanding results. That is why it’s important to profile the creative minds behind these agencies.

Bishop-McCann’s team comprises seasoned professionals with diverse backgrounds in event production, creative design, logistics, and travel marketing. Led under the executive directive of Dan Nilsen, Bishop-McCann's team ensures every event is more than just an organized gathering — it’s an occasion that nurtures a sense of community and strengthens stakeholder trust.

Dan Nilsen

Role: Founder & Partner

Dan Nilsen founded Bishop-McCann in 1997 with a mission to introduce sophistication across the event management niche. Guided by the principle of “treating others the way they want to be treated,” Nilsen has cultivated a culture of collaboration and connection at Bishop-McCann.

Under Nilsen’s leadership, the company has earned multiple accolades, including the “Small Business of the Year” award in 2014. Nilsen himself has been honored as one of Kansas City’s “Rising Stars of Philanthropy” and has received the prestigious NGLCC/Wells Fargo “Business Owner of the Year” award in 2010.

Rob Adams

Role: CEO & Partner

Rob Adams boasts over 20 years of experience in the events industry, with a demonstrated talent for driving success. His entrepreneurial journey began with a donut franchise in Las Vegas that was later acquired by sports legend Andre Agassi. Another notable professional milestone encompasses his role as a General Manager of Microsoft Business Solutions for Canada, where he helped elevate the division’s performance.

Adams serves on the International Board of Directors for MPI, advocates against human trafficking, and is a member of the Canadian Advisory Council. He’s also active in YPO International and community initiatives.

Social media accounts of Bishop-McCann

• Instagram
• Facebook
• X
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

Why Bishop-McCann Is Our Featured Event Marketing Agency

Our team at DesignRush conducted a thorough evaluation of leading event management agencies. Bishop-McCann stood out for its innovative strategies, creative approaches, and logistical coordination.

Key Reasons:

• Industry reputation: Bishop-McCann has earned a reputation as a reliable and forward-thinking event management agency, trusted by businesses and brands for its ability to execute events that exceed expectations and drive meaningful outcomes.
• Specialized expertise: The agency has a proven track record in delivering high-impact events and activations that require meticulous planning and execution, demonstrating its expertise in handling complex, thematic projects.
• Recognitions and awards: In recognition of its excellence, Bishop-McCann has earned notable accolades, including the 2019 Event of the Year from MPIKC and the 2018 Power Partner List by Incentive Magazine, reinforcing its position as a leading event management agency.
• Comprehensive service: As an end-to-end event planning company, Bishop-McCann offers concept development, logistics, event marketing, and venue selection services.

DesignRush Seal of Approval

At DesignRush, we carefully review agencies to ensure they meet our high standards, and we found that Bishop-McCann is a proven top performer.

Our team was impressed by the agency’s creativity, strong results, and commitment to client success, which set them apart. For us, Bishop-McCann is a 5-star agency that consistently exceeds expectations.

The DesignRush Team

We believe partnering with a top-tier agency like Bishop-McCann can make a real difference in achieving your business goals, and we’re excited to help you take the next step.

Our Tips on How to Move Forward:

1. Contact the agency to schedule a meeting

Fill in Bishop-McCann’s contact form to book an initial consultation. Take this opportunity to discuss event goals and project details.

2. Prepare questions to ask during the meeting

To gauge Bishop-McCann’s capacity to accommodate your event requirements, consider asking the following questions:

• Customization of event themes:
  • Can you provide examples of how you’ve tailored event themes to match specific brand identities or event objectives?
  • Why ask this? Customizing event themes ensures that the event aligns with your vision and creates a memorable experience for attendees.
• Handling logistically complex projects:
  • How do you manage intricate, large-scale events that require coordination between multiple venues, vendors, and schedules?
  • Why ask this? Good logistical coordination is crucial for preventing preparation delays and setting everything up within the defined timeframe.
• Budget management:
  • How do you approach event budgeting to ensure the project doesn't exceed allocated financial resources?
  • Why ask this? Smart budgeting is important to maximize the event's impact without financial overruns or unexpected expenses.
• Crisis management and contingency plans:
  • Can you describe a situation where you handled a last-minute crisis? What contingency plans did you have in place?
  • Why ask this? Unexpected issues can arise during events. In such situations, proactive crisis management can considerably mitigate disruptions and delays.
• Measuring event success:
  • What methods do you use to measure the success of an event?
  • Why ask this? Measuring success helps evaluate the event's effectiveness and informs future improvements or strategies.
• Post-event support:
  • Do you offer post-event services such as follow-up analysis, attendee feedback collection, or ongoing engagement strategies?
  • Why ask this? Post-event support helps reflect on the event’s impact and shortcomings. Such insights are highly valuable for assessing the overall satisfaction with the event organization.

Additional Tips

• Outline your event details: Specify your objectives, guest numbers, timeline, KPIs, budget, event platform, and theme so Bishop-McCann can better align its strategies to your needs.
• Discuss audience demographics: Provide general details about your attendees, such as their age and interests so that Bishop-McCann can tailor the agenda and activities accordingly.
• Set expectations for post-event reporting: Define the metrics and data you’d like to receive after the event so Bishop-McCann can track and assess success according to your KPIs.
• Share your constraints or preferences: Be upfront about any limitations and concerns, such as budget restrictions or venue preference, so Bishop-McCann can plan the project within your parameters.

Need Further Assistance?

If you need further guidance on how to proceed, reach out to our team at DesignRush. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your business.

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