Top Event Production Teams For Leadership Communications

When planning leadership communication events - like production companies for shareholder meetings, C-suite summits, or board presentations - choosing the right production team is critical. These events are about more than just delivering information; they’re about creating experiences that engage audiences and reinforce key messages. Here's what you need to know:

Key Services: Top production teams handle audio, video, lighting, and stage design, while also offering executive support like scriptwriting and teleprompter management.
Budget Ranges: Costs can vary from $25,000 for basic setups to over $350,000 for large-scale productions with broadcast features.
Planning Timeline: High-stakes events often require 4–6 months of preparation.
Top Teams: Leaders in this space include Corporate Optics, Freeman, George P. Johnson (GPJ), GoGather, Maritz, BCD Meetings & Events, and Jack Morton Worldwide.

Each team brings unique strengths, from advanced AI tools and hybrid event management using hybrid meeting planning best practices to sustainability practices and global reach. Below, we break down their capabilities to help you find the best fit for your leadership communication needs.

Event Production Teams Comparison: Services, Scale, and Capabilities

1. Corporate Optics

Corporate Optics

Audiovisual Production and Design Capabilities

Corporate Optics offers a full-service production experience, managing every detail from scenic design to lighting, audio, and visuals for leadership events. They specialize in crafting custom stage setups and scenic designs that elevate venues for Fortune 500 companies and major associations. Their services include extensive presenter support - think scriptwriting, teleprompter assistance, rehearsals, and professional coaching - to ensure leadership messages hit the mark. For awards ceremonies and critical meetings, they handle everything from nominee videos and walk-up music to dynamic lighting and flawless slide presentations, guaranteeing a polished and impactful experience. On top of that, they prioritize secure audiovisual setups to protect sensitive discussions and ensure precise message delivery.

Their production workflow is divided into four key stages: Discover, where they define the event's mission; Design, which focuses on planning technical and venue logistics; Develop, managing coordination and rehearsals; and Deliver, which ensures smooth execution during the live event. This structured process has helped clients achieve over 33,000 positive media impressions.

"Every time we work with Corporate Optics, we know we're in good hands. Their attention to detail and ability to adapt to challenges is unmatched."
– Ed D., Senior Managing Director, Chief Operating Officer

By combining meticulous design and cutting-edge technology, Corporate Optics ensures events are not only visually stunning but also highly engaging.

AI-Powered Tools for Audience Engagement and Analytics

Corporate Optics incorporates AI-driven tools into its event planning and execution, streamlining processes, cutting costs, and delivering measurable outcomes. These tools analyze audience data to uncover patterns and insights, shaping content strategies and engagement techniques. As a partner of prompts.ai - an AI platform built to enhance corporate event production - they use predictive analytics to forecast how different audience segments will respond to specific content. This data-driven approach helps ensure every element of the event resonates effectively.

Hybrid and Large-Scale Event Management

Corporate Optics also excels in managing virtual and hybrid events, providing professional streaming solutions that include switching systems, broadcast platforms, and redundant signal feeds. These backup systems are especially crucial for events like shareholder meetings and leadership communications, where ensuring uninterrupted delivery is non-negotiable. Their expertise guarantees a seamless experience for both in-person and remote audiences.

"Such a tremendous team and group to work with. They always remain calm (with a smile), have our back, and are prepared for anything."
– Pete L., SVP, Marketing

2. Freeman

Audiovisual Production and Design Capabilities

Freeman goes beyond standard AV setups, delivering creative productions that follow best practices for conference event production to fully engage audiences. Their expertise includes stage rigging, projection mapping, LED wall integration, spatial audio design, and broadcast-quality video production - all crafted to leave a lasting impression. For leadership communications, Freeman creates motion graphics, 3D scenic renders, and brand visuals that amplify executive messaging.

Their team features Creative Directors, Technical Directors, Scenic Designers, and Scriptwriters, ensuring that every narrative aligns seamlessly with technical execution. Freeman typically dedicates 4–6 months to corporate events and up to 14 months for larger productions. For high-profile leadership events, they provide specialized "Press Event" setups, complete with secure workstations, broadcast sets, and redundant power systems. Notable projects include managing the NATO Summit and producing ServiceNow's "Path to Knowledge" event, where they delivered end-to-end AV solutions for keynotes and general sessions.

"AV is equipment - creative production is engagement. It's the difference between people being spoken at versus them feeling immersed in the experience."

Michael O'Brien, Creative Production Expert, Freeman

Freeman's technical expertise is enhanced by their advanced tools, offering real-time insights for event optimization.

AI-Powered Tools for Audience Engagement and Analytics

Freeman leverages AI technology to turn real-time event data into actionable insights, enabling leadership teams to track audience engagement and evaluate event success as it unfolds. This approach shifts away from traditional metrics, focusing on behavioral data to reimagine message delivery and introduce fresh storytelling techniques instead of relying on repetitive formats.

These innovative methods complement Freeman's commitment to sustainability and hybrid event solutions.

Sustainability Practices and ESG Approach

Sustainability plays a key role in strengthening brand trust and message authenticity during leadership events. Freeman’s "green event plan" is designed to help clients meet their sustainability objectives by utilizing staff expertise. This plan addresses every stage of the event lifecycle, from pre-event communication and on-site execution to post-event reporting. Their strategies include refining recycling methods, sourcing local materials to cut transportation emissions, and encouraging attendees to engage in eco-friendly practices.

"The Freeman green event plan allows us to tap into their staff expertise and experience from other events. It is a solid foundation to build event sustainability goals now and in the future."

Cindy Sample, Director of Trade Show Operations, NAMM

Hybrid and Large-Scale Event Management

Freeman reimagines hybrid events by transforming in-person venues into VIP studio-like spaces that mirror live broadcast experiences. This ensures remote attendees enjoy a polished, professional production rather than a static stream. At the Meeting Professionals International (MPI) World Education Congress, Freeman executed a four-day hybrid event with no pre-recorded content. They incorporated a "broadcast desk" for live interviews and a "Fan Cam" to showcase virtual attendees on the main stage. Their hybrid strategy includes tailored agendas for digital and in-person audiences, offering exclusive features like post-event interviews to keep remote participants engaged.

3. George P. Johnson (GPJ)

George P. Johnson (GPJ) has been shaping leadership communications for over a century, blending cutting-edge audiovisual (AV) techniques with compelling storytelling to create unforgettable experiences.

Audiovisual Production and Design Capabilities

GPJ is all about turning keynotes into brand-defining moments. With over 100 years of experience, they specialize in live production and storytelling, supported by advanced technical expertise. Their services include sound, video, and lighting design, as well as 2D/3D rendering and in-house fabrication facilities located in Las Vegas, Nashville, Detroit, and Europe.

Beyond the technical aspects, GPJ elevates AV production with services like scriptwriting, speaker coaching, and rehearsals. Their Creative Technology team integrates AI-driven personalization and interactive storytelling to craft immersive environments. For instance, at IBM Think 2025, GPJ orchestrated a large-scale event themed "Where AI Meets Action", showcasing how advanced live production can connect brand value with business objectives on a global stage.

"The goal isn't just to deliver a great show. We aim to design the experience as a repeatable source of content. One event. Many outcomes."

George P. Johnson (GPJ)

Sustainability Practices and ESG Approach

GPJ takes sustainability seriously, using playbooks that align with corporate ESG goals and leveraging tools like the isla TRACE program to measure CO2e emissions and track environmental impact. Their Nashville fabrication facility achieved an impressive 95.49% diversion rate in 2024 by recycling 420.8 tons of materials and sending only 19.9 tons to landfills. They also use 100% recyclable materials, such as ConVerd Board and Falconboard, along with UV-curable inks to minimize VOC emissions.

At Workday Rising, GPJ partnered with Workday to hit a 94.73% waste diversion rate by eliminating non-compostable plastics and donating leftover food to local nonprofits. This effort earned them Platinum certification from the IMEX Events Industry Council and the Innovation in Sustainability Award. Additionally, GPJ supports diversity in procurement through its Minority Vendor Program, which boosts opportunities for Minority Business Enterprises and Women-Owned Business Enterprises.

Hybrid and Large-Scale Event Management

GPJ has been a leader in digital and hybrid events since 2008, producing over 1,200 virtual and hybrid events since 2020. Their broadcast-first approach ensures leadership messaging resonates with both live and digital audiences. A standout example is Google Cloud Next 2025, hosted at the Las Vegas Sphere, where GPJ captured immersive multi-angle experiences, including backstage interviews and executive messaging for global video-on-demand platforms.

At the Snowflake Summit, GPJ’s broadcast team delivered over 380 edited video assets within a week, providing leadership with polished content for marketing campaigns, sales enablement, and recruitment efforts. Their Special Experiences (SPEX) team also curates exclusive VIP events and intimate receptions tailored for executive-level engagement.

4. GoGather

GoGather specializes in managing large-scale corporate events, catering to 1,000–5,000 attendees with budgets exceeding $1 million. Their strategy revolves around immersive storytelling and a transparent pricing model, which uses a flat project management fee.

Audiovisual Production and Design Capabilities

GoGather reimagines event spaces with cutting-edge audiovisual techniques, such as 40×100-foot LED walls and projection mapping, all aligned with their "story-first, tech-second" philosophy. A standout example is their work for the Los Angeles Olympic Committee's 2028 bid. They partnered with a production team to transform a private Bel Air residence into a 4,000-square-foot LED environment, complete with dynamic cityscapes and mountain visuals. Instead of static backdrops, their LED walls act as "windows into environments".

Another memorable project includes the Mission San Juan Capistrano annual gala, where projection mapping brought the historic ruins to life, showing guests how the Mission appeared before an earthquake in the 1800s. This innovative display led to an immediate venue re-booking. Their audio solutions are equally advanced, featuring dynamic sound systems that move throughout the room and silent disco headsets for more focused attendee experiences.

"We're designers who just happen to own gear. The goal is never just to deliver equipment, it's to help tell your story."

Greg Christy, CEO, Brite Ideas

This emphasis on design extends to their commitment to reducing environmental impact.

Sustainability Practices and ESG Approach

GoGather integrates sustainability into every aspect of their events. They replace printed materials with in-app notifications and digital signage, and they collaborate with venues that use solar energy and prioritize farm-to-table food sourcing. By choosing local A/V vendors, they cut down on equipment transportation distances. Attendees are encouraged to select eco-friendly swag during registration or donate to sustainability organizations instead.

The company also incorporates community engagement by organizing volunteer activities like beach cleanups, tree planting, and workshops on sustainability. To further reduce their carbon footprint, GoGather favors local events and hybrid formats, cutting down on emissions from air travel.

"By taking steps to reduce the carbon footprint of your event, you can make a positive impact on the environment, while also creating a more responsible and sustainable image for your brand."

Katie Moser, Director of Marketing and Business Development, GoGather

Hybrid and Large-Scale Event Management

GoGather's expertise extends to hybrid events, where they merge live and virtual experiences. Their "Hub" concept brings together sessions and exhibits in a single immersive space, fostering engagement between executives and attendees. For events with capacity limits, they offer overflow rooms with livestream coverage and remote keynotes for speakers unable to attend in person.

With over 1,000 events under their belt and more than 1 million attendees served, GoGather has achieved an impressive 9.8 Net Promoter Score. By collaborating with production firms like Tallen, Brite Ideas, and Clarity Experiences, they deliver high-caliber audiovisual solutions while staying focused on purposeful event design.

CEO Brian Kellerman sums up their approach: "The check-the-box version of planning will die. 2026 is the year of intentional gatherings".

5. Maritz

Maritz

Maritz brings over 130 years of expertise to the table, organizing more than 100 leadership events annually with professional production support for groups ranging from 10 to 5,000 attendees. With subsidiaries like Maritz Global Events and Maritz Automotive, the company tailors its services to deliver specialized solutions for executive messaging.

Audiovisual Production and Design Capabilities

Maritz transforms ordinary presentations into dynamic, tech-driven experiences designed to resonate with executives. At the September 2023 Maritz Elevate event held at the Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes Orlando, they introduced "The Quad" learning pods and "The Lab" interactive displays. These spaces captivated over 300 executives, featuring a massive 90 ft × 14 ft LED and projection wall.

Their InfiniForm™ platform streamlines event setup with pre-built LED towers, kiosks, and wayfinding arches, ensuring consistent branding while cutting down on labor costs. The creative team excels in crafting scripts for executives, developing brand-focused storytelling, and producing leadership broadcasts on a national scale. For example, a luxury automotive brand’s multi-event anniversary celebration garnered an impressive 4.9 rating.

"Our shared strategy was to move the production budget from the keynote and general sessions into The Quad... This created an environment for exploring innovative outlets for creativity and professional growth."

Carter Dunham, VP of Sales & Business Development, PRG

Sustainability Practices and ESG Approach

Maritz has been a trailblazer in ethical practices, becoming the first in the meetings and events industry to sign the Tourism Child-Protection Code of Conduct in 2013 to combat human trafficking. They also adhere to the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) framework and release a Climate & Impact Report to maintain transparency. These efforts enhance both their ethical standing and the credibility of their executive messaging. Their partnership with Mastercard exemplifies their commitment to reducing event-related carbon emissions while tracking impact.

The company also fosters inclusivity through six employee-led resource groups, ensuring diverse perspectives shape their strategies. At their Maritz Activate conference, they introduced a "Clothing Swap" initiative, blending sustainability with attendee engagement.

Hybrid and Large-Scale Event Management

Maritz’s "Design the Journey – Not Just the Destination®" approach emphasizes creating a seamless experience for attendees, extending beyond the event itself. In 2025, they organized the Starbucks Leadership Experience, a citywide event that brought together over 14,000 coffeehouse leaders from across North America. Similarly, in February 2026, they delivered the Elevate 2026 Global Sales Kickoff for Contentful, hosting more than 800 employees from 15 countries.

Between 2019 and 2023, Maritz successfully managed over 27,000 events in 96 countries, with room spend exceeding $1.1 billion in 2023 alone. Nearly half of their event managers hold professional certifications such as CMP, CEM, CASE, PMP, and CMM, highlighting their expertise. Unlike many competitors, Maritz employs nearly 400 full-time travel directors and event managers, avoiding reliance on contractors.

"Winning brands will use AI strategically - not to replace human touch, but to enhance it."

Rob King, Emerging Technology Lead, Maritz

Maritz’s combination of cutting-edge technology, ethical initiatives, and large-scale event expertise sets a benchmark for leadership-focused events.

6. BCD Meetings & Events

BCD Meetings & Events operates in over 60 countries with a team of more than 2,000 professionals, providing leadership communication solutions for global organizations. In 2023, their parent company, BCD Travel, reported sales of $20.3 billion, highlighting their extensive reach and influence.

Audiovisual Production and Design Capabilities

BCD M&E employs advanced 3D software to scan and recreate event spaces during site visits. This allows for precise digital room designs before production begins, ensuring potential issues like low ceilings or missing rigging points are addressed early. Their production expertise extends to managing large-scale components such as 100-foot-wide LED screens, supported by specialists like show callers, graphics operators, and directors of photography.

Their "Films" production team, comprising award-winning directors and cinematographers, produces high-quality content, including documentaries and episodic series tailored for leadership messaging. Additionally, their specialized agency, "The Collective", emphasizes emotionally driven storytelling combined with high-level technical execution for impactful brand experiences. For virtual and hybrid events, they integrate tracked camera movements within 3D environments, creating broadcast-quality virtual stages with dynamic lighting effects.

"Authenticity and leveling the playing field between executives and attendees drive key messages and boost engagement." - Casey Baugess, Creative Director, BCD Meetings & Events

To enhance leadership communication, the company offers speaker coaching to help executives present with clarity and confidence. They also design immersive stage layouts that place speakers "amongst the crowd", fostering a stronger connection between leaders and attendees. All of this is achieved with a focus on sustainability, incorporated into every project.

Sustainability Practices and ESG Approach

BCD M&E has consistently demonstrated its commitment to sustainability, earning five consecutive platinum ratings from EcoVadis and being a UN Global Compact signatory since 2008. The company holds ISO certifications, including ISO 14001, 45001, and 20121 for Sustainable Event Management in key regions like the US, UK, and Germany. They aim to cut total carbon emissions by 35% by 2030.

Their Sustainability Toolkit includes a Venue Scorecard and Carbon Emissions Calculator, enabling clients to make informed, data-driven decisions during event planning. The 2025 Sustainability Guide emphasizes circular economy principles and carbon reduction strategies from sourcing to production. BCD M&E also collaborates with eco-conscious destinations, hotels, and suppliers to enhance their sustainability impact.

"Every event is a chance to lead. By cutting carbon and embracing sustainability now, you don't just reduce impact, you show your partners and teams that you're serious about shaping a better, cleaner future." - Thiago Araujo, Global Sustainability Director, BCD Meetings & Events

Hybrid and Large-Scale Event Management

BCD M&E's cloud-based webcasting platform supports both live and on-demand global leadership summits, offering secure and scalable performance. They build pre-event excitement with teaser videos and interactive tools like "treasure map" checklists, while post-event, they provide on-demand virtual libraries to keep attendees engaged.

By addressing technical challenges early - such as navigating in-house AV providers, union labor, and rigging costs - BCD M&E ensures smoother event execution. They also provide real-time interpretation services, enabling inclusive participation for global audiences across multiple languages.

"If event management is the canvas, event production is the paint." - BCD Meetings & Events

7. Jack Morton Worldwide

Jack Morton Worldwide brings over 80 years of expertise in scenic and environmental design, combined with 22 Emmy Award–winning broadcast studio capabilities, to deliver top-tier leadership messaging. Their in-house studios produce high-quality video, animation, 3D, and immersive content, blending traditional design principles with modern technology to create storytelling platforms that captivate both live and remote audiences.

Audiovisual Production and Design Capabilities

With a legacy of Emmy-winning broadcast design, Jack Morton Worldwide has crafted sets for iconic programs like The Colbert Report and ESPN SportsCenter. Their fully equipped studios handle everything from video production to interactive experiences, ensuring corporate leadership communications meet the same high standards as professional broadcasts. By applying these production values to corporate events, the agency enhances executive messaging, delivering polished and impactful presentations.

Sustainability Practices and ESG Approach

Jack Morton has introduced the Circular Experience Operating System, a five-step framework focused on achieving zero waste. This system - built around Rethink, Redesign, Rebuild, Repeat, and a Responsible Supplier Ecosystem - emphasizes reuse, durability, and recyclability in event design. The agency aims for all client experiences to be zero waste and Net Zero by 2040, with an interim goal of tracking and reporting sustainability metrics for all projects by 2027.

"By 2027, we aim to measure and report on all projects, establishing internal benchmarks and best practices." - Julien LeBas, SVP, Global Head of Sustainability, Jack Morton

To support these goals, over 700 employees across four continents have completed PLANET Bootcamp training on sustainable design and measurement. Additionally, a network of 60 PLANET Ambassadors and an AI-powered chatbot named Isabella, accessible via the PLANET Portal, assist in making eco-conscious decisions during event planning. As a founding member of isla, Jack Morton uses data-tracking tools to measure environmental impact and audits its global partners to ensure compliance with strict standards.

This sustainability-first mindset extends to their live and virtual experiences, ensuring that their events align with their environmental goals.

Hybrid and Large-Scale Event Management

Jack Morton approaches live and virtual audiences as distinct groups, crafting tailored experiences for each rather than simply broadcasting events. Their proprietary platform, Jack ethos, fosters community-focused experiences that seamlessly integrate in-person and remote participants. The agency’s reach is staggering: they connect with approximately 3.5 billion people through live events and manage an average of 10,000 activation days annually.

Their broadcast work alone reaches 35 million people every weekday, showcasing the scale and effectiveness of their production capabilities. By designing events that prioritize engagement for both live and virtual attendees, Jack Morton ensures leadership communications resonate globally.

"Organizations need to assume they will have some important presenters and clients or prospects unwilling to travel, so they have to design-in a separate experience for them that is both impactful and timely." - Jack Morton Worldwide

Team Comparison Table

The table below highlights key attributes of various teams, offering a quick way to assess which might best suit your leadership communication needs.

Team	Event Scale	Audiovisual Production	AI Tools	Global Reach	Sustainability Practices
Corporate Optics	Small to large corporate events	Award-winning production, custom fabrication, and broadcast services	Partners with prompts.ai for AI integration	Primarily U.S.-focused with broadcast capabilities	Emphasizes digital workflows and reduced paper use
Freeman	Large conferences and trade shows	Full-service AV support, scenic design, and 3D rendering	Leverages event analytics and digital tools	Operates globally across multiple regions	Developing eco-friendly initiatives
George P. Johnson	High-profile corporate events	Integrated production delivering immersive experiences	Uses data-driven audience insights	Strong international network	Dedicated to improving environmental responsibility
GoGather	Mid-sized corporate events	Professional AV setup with virtual production options	Offers virtual networking and engagement tracking tools	Focused on North America	Advocates for eco-friendly event practices
Maritz	Enterprise-level events	High-quality broadcast and experiential production	Applies behavioral science analytics for engagement	Global presence	Embeds CSR principles in event design
BCD Meetings & Events	Large-scale event operations	Comprehensive AV services	Advanced meeting technology platforms	Global operations	Aims to reduce travel emissions and promote eco-friendly practices
Jack Morton Worldwide	High-impact event activations	Award-winning production with advanced studios	Uses AI solutions for better decision-making	Extensive international reach	Supports sustainability with net-zero initiatives

Hybrid event capabilities are now a standard feature for these teams, reflecting the growing trend toward blending in-person and virtual experiences. While sustainability efforts vary, some teams have fully integrated eco-conscious strategies, while others are still refining their approaches. AI tools are also becoming a critical factor, offering efficiencies in production and deeper audience insights.

When deciding on a team, think about how their geographic coverage, production strengths, and AI capabilities align with your event goals. Teams with strong AI integration can simplify planning while enhancing audience engagement, and those with robust sustainability practices can help meet environmental and governance objectives. Matching these strengths to your specific needs will ensure your leadership messaging hits the mark.

Conclusion

This article has delved into how professional production teams turn leadership messaging into impactful and engaging experiences. Selecting the right event production team is about more than just renting equipment - it's about ensuring your message, executives, and brand are represented with precision and care. The teams discussed here specialize in creating environments that feel deliberate and well-planned, ensuring your leadership communication resonates clearly and effectively.

Production budgets for these events can vary widely, from around $25,000 for basic hotel general sessions to over $350,000 for large-scale arena setups with integrated broadcast capabilities. While these costs may seem high, viewing events as strategic investments often pays off with measurable engagement and boosted executive confidence. For instance, a Fortune 500 company’s annual leadership summit utilized a custom multi-channel audio system and advanced AV setup with broadcast features. The result? High satisfaction among executives and noticeable improvements in message retention for both in-person and remote participants.

Understanding the difference between AV vendors and full-scale production companies is critical in high-stakes communication. Professional production teams handle essential elements like redundancy plans, show control, and secure streaming - things you might not notice unless something goes wrong. These teams do more than provide gear; they safeguard your speakers, your message, and your brand through careful planning and flawless execution using a corporate event checklist.

When choosing a production partner, it’s important to confirm their experience with executive-level events, verify their onsite show management capabilities, and review their redundancy plans for critical systems. For large-scale leadership conferences, booking 3–6 months in advance allows for adequate pre-production planning.

The right production team will handle the technical complexities seamlessly, freeing your leaders to focus on their delivery. Whether you’re organizing an investor meeting, global town hall, or awards ceremony, aligning their expertise with your event goals ensures your leadership communications leave a lasting impression. This approach reflects a commitment to precision and forward-thinking, protecting your message and brand through expert production strategies.

FAQs

How do I pick the right production team for an executive event?

When selecting a production team for your leadership communication event, focus on their ability to deliver high-quality audiovisual experiences. Look for teams with a proven history of managing large-scale events, smooth live streaming, and incorporating interactive audience engagement tools. Prioritize those offering customized solutions, reliable technical support, and cutting-edge technology - especially for hybrid formats. A team experienced in leadership-focused events can play a key role in ensuring everything runs flawlessly.

What drives the cost of leadership event production?

The cost of producing a leadership event hinges on several factors. AV technology plays a big role - think cameras, sound systems, lighting, and streaming tools. Larger events or hybrid formats often demand more sophisticated setups, which naturally drive up costs.

Other contributors include venue logistics, staffing needs, and custom stage designs, all of which add layers to the budget. Location is another key factor. Labor laws and taxes vary by region, and hosting in cities like New York or Los Angeles typically comes with higher price tags due to these considerations.

What should a redundancy plan include for a high-stakes event?

When planning for a high-stakes event, it’s essential to prepare for the unexpected. This means having backup systems, contingency procedures, and clear communication protocols in place. These elements allow for swift action in the face of technical glitches or unforeseen disruptions, helping to reduce any negative effects on the event’s outcome.