Delaney, who received the award at yesterday's EIBTM Forum at the Palau de Congressos in Barcelona, declared himself "uncharacteristically speechless and genuinely humbled" with the accolade.
"It's a huge privilege to work in such a dynamic industry where I’ve learned so much and made so many lifelong friends. But there’s life in the old dog yet and lots more achievements to pursue as the next chapter of a career in this amazing industry unfolds," he added.
Reed Travel Exhibitions senior exhibition director Graeme Barnett, who presented the award, said: "The timing is right for us to recognise Patrick’s enormous contribution to our industry.
"His passion, commitment and enthusiasm are endless and I know that his unique style and personality has endeared him to the many people he has met and worked alongside during his travels around the world."
Eric Rozenberg, chair of Reed Travel Exhibitions, added: "He relentlessly and positively impacts our industry whilst at the same time entertains us all with his unique Irish sense of humour."
Delaney, who started Delaney Marketing with Padraic Gilligan and developed it into a 50 person business in under a decade, was the first non-US international president of the Society of Incentive and Travel Executives (SITE).
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