Workday Rising, the annual customer conference for the public company that sells an AI platform for managing people and money, earned the highest possible level of sustainable event certification from the Events Industry Council (EIC) for its 2024 event. The platinum-level certification is the first awarded to a technology company.  

Workday Rising 2024, organized in partnership with George P. Johnson (GPJ), Freeman, Allegiant Stadium, and Mandalay Bay, was the company’s biggest gathering yet, with more than 30,000 in-person and digital attendees.  

Backstory: Held Sept. 16-19 at Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, the 2024 Workday Rising grew attendance 15% year-over-year. Workday is used by more than 11,000 organizations around the world and across industries–from medium-sized businesses to more than 60% of the Fortune 500, according to the press release announcing the news.   

Related: 5 MOMENTS WORTH RELIVING FROM WORKDAY RISING 2024 

Context: The EIC Sustainable Event Standards were created by global experts to help event professionals implement and measure sustainable practices. The standards provide guidance and metrics for organizational management, marketing, climate action, social impact, accessibility, and more. 

What they’re saying: “Workday Rising is more than just a conference—it’s a moment to celebrate our customers while bringing our core values to life and inspiring meaningful action,” said Erik Hansen, chief sustainability officer, Workday. “Achieving platinum-level certification from the Events Industry Council underscores our commitment to creating impactful and sustainable experiences for our customers and partners as we help them move forever forward.” 

Why it matters: “Workday Rising’s certification exemplifies the transformative power of sustainability in the events industry,” said Amy Calvert, chief executive officer, EIC. “By embedding environmental and social responsibility into every aspect of their event, Workday and its partners are setting a powerful example for what’s possible. This achievement not only reflects their leadership but also serves as an inspiration for event professionals across the globe to prioritize sustainable practices and create meaningful, lasting impact.”  

Related: PREVIEW OF WORKDAY RISING 2024: GWEN STEFANI & MICHELLE OBAMA TO HEADLINE 

Big picture: “The success of Workday Rising's sustainability strategy is a testament to the power of partnership and a shared commitment to positive change,” said Sarah Jackson, sustainability lead for the Americas, GPJ. “Seeing such impressive diversion rates, reduced transportation emissions, and a tangible positive impact on the community is incredibly rewarding. At GPJ, we're deeply proud of this collaboration and the results we've achieved together. We're excited to build on this momentum, continuing to push the boundaries of sustainable event practices and create lasting change through this important partnership with Workday." 

Looking ahead: In 2025, Workday Rising will be held Sept. 15-18 online and in person in San Francisco. One keynote speaker will be Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, who will share how he’s driven business transformation by championing strategic direction, operational performance, and marketing and commercial development. 

Lead image: Workday CMO Emma Chalwin on stage at Workday Rising 2024. Photos courtesy of Workday.

Don’t miss any event-related news: Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter HERE, listen to our latest podcast HERE and engage with us on LinkedIn!