Her Story
About Ksenija
Ksenija Polla is a global events and association management leader serving as Director of International Development at Talley Management Group in Costa Mesa, California. With more than three decades of experience in the meetings, events, and association industry, she specializes in strategic growth, international partnerships, community building, and creating meaningful experiences that advance organizational missions. Her career began in education as a teacher, where her passion for knowledge sharing and mentorship developed, eventually leading her into the global association and business events sector.
Throughout her career, Ksenija spent 27 years with the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), holding leadership roles including Global Director of Association Relations, North America Regional Director, and Head of Education and Legacy Programmes. She has led initiatives focused on association development, certification programs, market intelligence, member engagement, and international collaboration. Her expertise lies in designing impactful events that go beyond logistics—using meetings as platforms for learning, innovation, connection, and long-term community impact.
Ksenija holds the CMP (Certified Meeting Professional), CICE (Certified in International Convention and Exhibition), and CEF-IF (International Fellow of the Centre for Events & Festivals) designations. She studied German Language and Philosophy at the University of Zagreb and is recognized for her contributions to the global events community, including being named among Women Who Advance Associations leaders. Passionate about purposeful leadership, she believes trust, active listening, and authentic relationships are essential to building successful teams, partnerships, and professional communities.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ksenija
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to trust, active listening, and understanding both spoken and unspoken needs. Being recognized as an International Fellow by the Center for Events and Festivals reflects my commitment and contributions to my field.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is that “the graveyard is full of people who thought they could not be missed.” It reminds me that while dedication and hard work are important, success should not come at the expense of burnout. I believe in achieving great things while maintaining balance and perspective.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to start as you mean to go on. Set high expectations for yourself, but also establish boundaries so the fast-paced nature of the industry does not consume you. Make time for yourself, stay grounded, and remain true to who you are.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is the loss of talent after the pandemic. Many people left the industry and chose not to return because they no longer saw the rewards, purpose, or long-term value in the work. We have an opportunity to rebuild by sharing our story with pride and showing the impact and meaning behind what we do.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are trust, active listening, and establishing healthy boundaries. Trust is the foundation of every meaningful professional and personal relationship, and genuine listening—both to what is said and what is unspoken—allows for deeper understanding and stronger connections.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.