Westfalenhalle Dortmund’s new arena leadership begins
Submitted by Westfalenhalle Translated by Exhibition City News Dortmund - As of January 1, 2025, Rainer Schüler is the new department head of Westfalenhalle Gmbh. In this role, he will oversee the strategic direction and operational management of the historic Dortmund event venue. Experienced industry leaders Schüler has a wide background in the event industry: Senior member manager of the 2024 European GMBH European Cup, where he managed major international events. Founder and CEO of the site planner who develops event planning software solutions. General Manager of Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi. Speaker of the Düsseldorf Hall family. With expertise in event management, stadium planning and safety, Schüler aims to drive innovation in Westfalenhalle. Student’s Vision: “I am very excited to further develop Westfalenhalle and introduce new ideas to the future. As the concept of the event develops, I want to help position Westfalenhalle as one of the top venues in Germany.” His leadership will ensure the digital transformation of…
The future of the activity industry under the leadership of Trump
How does the Trump administration affect the labor force of the incident industry? Tommy Goodwin, vice president of the exhibition and conference alliance, shared his opinion. Author: Casey Gale Donald Trump is still established as the second term of the president, but the business activity industry can understand his first term and direct execution order and his commitment during the 2024 campaign. In December, Hold Tommy Goodwin, Vice President of the Exhibition and Conference Alliance (ECA), asked Trump to break the expected impact on Trump's expectations on Trump's expected impact in the next four years of his term. Tommy Goodwin According to Goodwin, with the development of President Trump's position, he and ECA will closely pay close attention to some key areas. This is the content shared by Goodwin in terms of staffing: The impact of the Trump administration on the labor force of supporting the activity industry is a chance of Goodwin. In view of "Every shortage you found…
In 2025, a dialogue with IAEE leadership
As the exhibition and activity industry remained strong in 2025, the organization faced double challenges, that is, it remained successful in future innovation. IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.ed. They are about to hold a network seminar, Future path: IAEE's vision of the New Year, industry update, and expected trends in 2025January 27. Their views will see the next year's roadmap of IAEE and strategies that will affect the future of the exhibition. These industry leaders must share changes in meaningful promotion to ensure active investment return and establish greater success methods for all stakeholders. In recent years, major changes have taken place in the exhibition industry. How will you represent its current recovery state? Martha: We saw the encouraging signs of recovery of multiple indicators. It is particularly interesting that the pace of recovery is different in the different aspects of the industry. Some areas have almost returned to the popular level, and other areas are still on…
Exhibition & Convention Alliance names 2025 leadership
Founded in 2021 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Exhibition & Convention Alliance (ECA) is a coalition of leading industry organizations, including advocates for the business events industry. The nine specific groups that make up the ECA include the Association of Experience Designers and Producers, the International Convention and Convention Association, the Exhibition Services and Contractors Association, the Professional Convention Management Association, the International Exhibition and Event Association, the Independent Exhibition Association, organizers including the International Venue Managers Association, Trade Show Labor Federation and UFI (Universal Association of the Exhibition Industry). In mid-January, ECA appoints its elected officials and board of directors for the coming year.Exhibitions, conferences and trade shows hosted by ECA Alliance partners and their members draw attendees from around the world to the United States ||Courtesy of the Exhibition & Conference AllianceThe following elected officers are appointed by the Board of Directors to serve one-year terms: Herve SedkyChairman: President and CEO of Emerald Expositions (New York City),…
Momentum Management welcomes new leadership » Exhibit City
Experienced professional joins team to enhance growth and client relationships Author: Exhibition City News Staff Momentum Management has announced three key appointments, further strengthening its team of experienced professionals in the trade show and events industry. Tom Barcelona – Northern California Regional Manager Tom Barcelona has been in the trade show industry for over 12 years. He began his career as a temporary worker before joining Sign and Display Local 510 in San Francisco as an installer, foreman and foreman. At the end of 2019, Barcelona assumed the role of Power Management Northern California Regional Manager. Since then, he has built a strong team in the region and supported successful projects in multiple markets, including Las Vegas and Southern California. His responsibilities include coordinating labor, equipment and materials on the job site to ensure projects are completed safely and efficiently and in compliance with union rules. Mark Lively – Director of Partner Development Mark Lively brings more than 30 years…
How event strategists can boost leadership confidence
Gross profit is the most important metric for leaders. By understanding and tracking this key metric, event organizers can increase your credibility and value with senior leadership during the recovery process. By Dave Lutz, CMP Attendance is just one of the variables needed to understand event gross profit recovery. (regardless of media group) To maximize event gross profit, you need to connect the dots, applying attendance, revenue, and expense trends based on your business model and industry. The top-performing pre-pandemic annual conferences and trade shows we analyzed generated 55-65% gross profit. In 2024, gross profits from these same activities declined. 20 points. For this purpose, gross profit is calculated by subtracting direct activity expenses (not including wages, overhead, or appropriations) from total activity revenue and dividing by total activity revenue. Although many major events are close to recovery in terms of revenue, the main reason for the decline in gross profit is a significant increase in expenses (approximately 30%). For…
Holding a leadership meeting to highlight the space for innovation
Author: Michelle Russell The Space Cities Network will serve as a case study example of innovative collaboration in two sessions of the 2025 Leaders Conference. The Space Cities Network is a recent initiative between four cities on four continents—Lausanne, Switzerland; Christchurch, New Zealand; Houston, Texas, United States; and Seoul, South Korea—to strengthen universities, research centers, government agencies, Cooperation between industrial sectors and businesses in the field of outer space. In convening the Leaders Conference, the Space City Network will present case study examples of innovative collaborations in the business events industry – “International collaboration and overcoming business culture differences” and “Vertical Advantage: Driving growth” at the Monday and Tuesday sessions in Organization and Purpose In the ground. " convene Claire Hector-Taylor, international business development manager at ChristchurchNZ, the sustainable economic development agency, and Gerald Howard, senior business development manager at conference management organization Congress Lausanne-Montreux, were contacted to find out more about the program. They responded via email (of course!).…
Identity Strengthening Leadership Team Appointments
Identity, the leading brand experience agency within The Human Network, has announced the appointment of Martin Fullard as Director of Marketing and Communications, marking a significant enhancement to its senior leadership team.Fullard brings extensive industry expertise to Identity, most recently as associate director of news and content at Davies Tanner, where he played a key role in shaping policy for the UK events industry through The Business of Events, the industry's independent think tank.“Martin’s appointment is a strategic milestone for Identity as we continue to expand our global footprint and solidify our position as an industry leader in creating transformative brand experiences.” Olivier Vallee, Global Managing Director, Identity UK and Middle East said “His deep understanding of the event landscape, coupled with his strong track record in advocacy and communications, will help articulate our vision and value proposition to clients around the world.”Fullard is a respected industry commentator and multiple award winner, best known for his work as a former…
Maritz leadership digs deep into integration with CDS, new
CHICAGO — Event technology continues to be a top focus for trade show and event organizers as they seek a more seamless experience for their teams and for exhibitors and attendees at their shows. Maritz, a company designed to meet the demand for smoother journeys in 2025, now brings the acquisition of Convention Data Services under its brand. trade show director Chatted with Maritz leadership about the progress of the integration with Convention Data Services, their priorities for 2025 and what show organizers should focus on in 2025. Better together The integration of Convention Data Services (CDS) and the Maritz brand is ongoing and has been making significant progress since the acquisition was announced in July 2024. The transaction brings together two strong competitors and sets in motion an integration process that includes retaining the best of each company to continue delivering the strongest value proposition to customers. John Wahle, Chief Technology Officer, Maritz "We know that we will be…
Starbucks on track for strong rebound in 2025 under new leadership
Starbucks expects a major turnaround in 2025, driven by a new strategy under new CEO Brian Niccol. Yahoo Finance reported that Niccol launched initiatives focused on faster service times, simpler pricing and improved store operations aimed at re-establishing Starbucks stock as a strong player in the market. BTIG restaurant analyst Peter Saleh said these focused strategies are expected to lay the foundation for impressive same-store sales and earnings growth as we enter 2026, which could drive Starbucks shares higher. Saleh emphasized that Starbucks is one of his most valued stocks in the first half of 2025 and expects its stock price to rise 30% from current levels, with a price target of $115. Although 2025 is a transformation and investment phase for Starbucks, this year is expected to be critical in achieving a sustainable transformation. IndexBox platform data supports this trajectory by showing key market trends that point to a recovery in key coffee markets, particularly North America, consistent with…
Seen Presents strengthens creative leadership team with two appointments
Seen Presents is delighted to welcome Emily Lyddon-Towl and Lucy Ducker to the team as Associate Creative Directors, marking an important step in strengthening the company’s creative capabilities.These senior female hires are two of nine new roles created this year, reaffirming Seen Presents’ commitment to building a strong team driven by purposeful and impactful design. Emily and Lucy bring a wealth of experience and an impressive track record, having worked with global brands on high-profile campaigns, including at top events such as Cannes Lions, CES and SXSW in their previous roles Outstanding work on display.Excitingly, it also marks the professional reunion of the dynamic duo with Seen Presents Managing Director Louisa O'Connor, five years after their last collaboration. "Working with Lucy and Emily again is a full-circle moment for me personally. They are formidable partners and I have some of my best creative memories with them. Seeing them as company directors I am very happy and proud to be growing…
A smart move to visit SLO CAL, Tanzerra Resorts and more
Listen to audio David West David West, Hamilton County Visitors Bureau West serves as president and CEO Hamilton County Tourism Brenda Meyers retired after leading the Hamilton County Visitors Bureau for 19 years. He has over 20 years of experience in the tourism and destination management industry. His major accomplishments include developing the strategic destination plan for Dollywood Parks and Resorts, which brought record visitor numbers, and leading the Pure Michigan initiative during his tenure at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The Hamilton County Tourism Board of Directors nominated him for the position after a thorough review, not only because of his extensive and successful background, but also because of his reputation for energy and creativity in destination marketing. Natalie Placer Natalie Placer, Four Seasons Hotel & Private Residences New Orleans Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences New Orleans Appointed Placer as Marketing Director. She brings more than two decades of experience to her role and has spent the majority…
Quality leadership, men’s fashion – CHIC2025 (Spring) “Quality Men’s Wear” exhibition space
In today's fashion field, the men's clothing market is experiencing profound changes and developments. With the change of male consumers' consumption patterns and the improvement of their purchasing power, the men's clothing market is booming. Significant new changes have taken place in the consumption habits of male consumers. The younger generation of men are more and more sensitive and pursue new styles and new brands, and have higher requirements for quality and brand image.Based on the new changes and trends in the consumer market,March 11-13, 2025CHIC2025 (Spring)Exhibition space “Quality clothing for men”Will appear in a new lookNational Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) Hall 4.1innovative division of exhibition spacesTrademark area, Custom brand area, Manufacture brand areabringing a new perspective to the industry, promoting the implementation of trade, and promoting the development of the men's clothing industry.Wonderful scenes from previous exhibitionsCommercial brand space: strong link with the consumer marketThe “Quality Men's Wear” exhibition area will use more than a third of the…
FICP Annual Senior Conversation on Meaning
Listen to audio Meeting planners in the finance and insurance industries face complex demands. Many plan internal and customer events, incentive trips and sales meetings. Their role is to lay the groundwork for executive planning sessions and bring remote teams together. The stakes are high and rules must be followed. In response to these evolving challenges, a record-breaking number of people attended the 2024 FICP Annual Meeting this week at the redesigned Sheraton Hotel in downtown Denver. Learn more: From Checkboxes to Strategies: Implementing and Leading Sustainable Event Practices Topics include AI adoption, succession planning, contract negotiation, neurodiversity affordances, transportation management, and sustainable procurement. The big stage features drones, magic and insights into the leadership needed to manage what comes next. Boot from the shadows Former NFL player Justin Fossett Former NFL player Justin Fossett shares the mindset tips he needs to succeed on and off the field. From childhood homelessness to the ups and downs of college and professional…
Leadership is top priority at IFE 2024 keynote
Day two of this year's International Fastener Expo (IFE) in Las Vegas kicked off with a powerful keynote from Beau Groover, founder and CEO of The Effective Syndicate. Grover's message is clear: The fastener industry is vital. "Everything in our world is held together by some type of fastener," Grover said. “The buildings, the casinos — it’s all held together by you.” This call for pride resonated with attendees, but Grover’s message went deeper than encouragement. He provides practical strategies for business leaders in the fastener industry on how to move beyond surviving and truly thrive. Build a deep pipeline of leaders While having a visionary leader is critical, Grover emphasized the importance of developing strong managers at all levels. Leaders who can make effective decisions when needed are invaluable assets to any company. This concept is especially important for fastener companies, as consistent, precise standards must be met to maintain industry credibility. Practical strategies: Identify promising team members with…
NOENMCC will succeed under the leadership of Michael J. Sawaya
New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority Expects Full Launch of Ernest N. Morial Search for a new CEO Submitted by Ernest Morial Convention Center, New Orleans new orleans – Michael J. Sawaya, president and CEO of the New Orleans Ernest Morrill Convention Center (NOEMCC), announced Thursday that he will serve as the director of the Audubon Nature Institute after New Year’s Day this year President and Chief Executive Officer. “We are deeply grateful to Mike for his leadership in honing the mission and vision of our convention center and propelling us to the top of the national meetings and events market,” said Ernest N. Morial New President Russell W. Allen. Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority. “We wish Mike endless success at Audubon as we continue to build on our shared achievements and drive further innovation and advancement in our industry.” "The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and Mike have been valuable partners for New Orleans companies as we position our…
Destination Dayton continues commitment to leadership
Submitted by Eric Brockman of Destination Dayton Dayton, Ohio – Destination Dayton, the destination marketing organization for Dayton and Montgomery County, announces appointments Cathy Peterson serves as executive vice president and promotion to Senior Sales Manager. Ron Eifert serves as director of sales. These strategic changes reflect the organization's commitment to strengthening its leadership and continuing its efforts to position Dayton as a premier travel and event destination. Peterson has extensive experience in strategic communications and public relations, having worked in public policy, higher education and media. Petersen most recently served as Director of Public Information at Sinclair Community College and served as Director of Digital Marketing and Media Relations for Destination Dayton from 2018 to 2020 and Director of Communications for Montgomery County, Ohio from 2008 to 2018. With a strong background in digital communications, media strategy and event management, Peterson is poised to further enhance the bureau’s engagement with the community and key stakeholders in this newly created…
ASM Global announces new leadership at ICC
Submitted by ASM Global ASM Global, the world's leading venue management company and producer of live event experiences, has announced leadership changes at the International Convention Center Sydney (ICC Sydney), Australia's premier conference, exhibition and entertainment venue. Former CEO Geoff Donaghy retires after a distinguished 30-year career with ASM Global, and current Managing Director Adam Mather-Brown has been appointed CEO. Adam Mather-Brown is an accomplished professional with 26 years of experience in leadership roles at five major convention centers, including 20 years with ASM Global. As part of the leadership changes, ICC Sydney's Beverley Parker will take on the role of deputy chief executive in addition to her current role as venue business development director. Beverley also continues as marketing director for ASM Global (Asia Pacific). Harvey Lister AM, chairman and chief executive of ASM Global (Asia Pacific), said the appointments are part of the organization’s long-term succession plan and are a natural progression for the experienced professionals who have…
United associations collaborate to develop leadership
The United Association's Next Generation Symposium on developing leadership for a global workforce was held Monday at the Mandalay Bay North Convention Center in Las Vegas. Submitted by AIPC Sponsored by the International Association of Professional Congress Organizers (IAPCO), the International Federation of Exhibition Services (IFES), the Association of International Convention Centers (AIPC) and the Association of Interior Management Consultants (AMCI), this seminar provides opportunities to deepen the understanding of adaptability platform. Leadership in today’s global workforce. Following the success of the last shared workshop at IMEX Frankfurt, four associations are working together again to empower the next generation. It highlights the importance that each of the four associations places on working with and giving the next generation a voice. Estefanía Zárate Angarita of Kenes Group said: “The United Association Symposium demonstrates the continued strengthening of collaboration between key players in our global meetings industry, with the vision and talent of future leaders taking center stage. “The program and format,…
ESCA launches new Youth Leadership Council
CHICAGO – The Exhibition Services and Contractors Association (ESCA) announced the formation of the Emerging Leaders Council, which will help support and develop early career professionals in the events industry. Membership is open to those under 40 years of age or those who have worked in the exhibition industry for 10 years. The committee will develop programs and initiatives for young professionals to help them develop skills and industry knowledge and expand their networks. The Emerging Leaders Council also holds a non-voting seat on the ESCA Board of Directors, underscoring the association’s dedication to this group and the future of the live events industry. “We are extremely proud to launch the Rising Star Leaders Council, which represents our commitment to developing the next generation of professionals in the exhibition and live events industry,” said ESCA Executive Director Julie Kagy. “By empowering these emerging leaders, we are not only investing in " related. Trade show industry focuses on workforce development; organizations…
Visit Atlantic City to announce leadership transition »
This PR was originally posted on Visit Atlantic City Avatar provided by Visit Atlantic City President and CEO Larry Sieg retires, Vice President of Sales Gary Musich steps up to lead the organization Atlantic City, New Jersey – Visit Atlantic City has announced a major leadership change, with President and CEO Larry Sieg deciding to retire after many years of dedicated service to the organization and the region’s tourism industry. Seager is a visionary leader who has led the Atlantic City Visitors Bureau through significant growth, solidifying Atlantic City’s position as a premier travel and tourism destination. Larry Seeger, photo courtesy of Visit Atlantic City Succeeding Sieg as president and CEO will be Gary Musich, currently Vice President of Sales for Visit Atlantic City. With over 25 years of experience in sales and hospitality, Musich has an extensive background in driving business growth and cultivating key relationships in the travel industry. His promotion reflects the organization's commitment to continuity and…
Leadership experience fuels Puerto Rico’s indigenous spirit
Listen to audio Meet Boricua brings culture and heart to the Conquistador Resort Ballroom The Smart Meetings Leadership Experience at Conquistador Resort in Puerto Rico sets the stage for top meeting professionals to make new connections to increase efficiency and add some spice to their programs. For three days, attendees danced, tasted and laughed at one of the world's top resorts. sound of victory The celebration kicks off with an empathetic primer from Keynote Rich Bracken. He re-demonstrates his DJ skills, taps into the audience's emotional intelligence, helps them develop skills, and relieves the stress of life in meeting professors. "Emotional intelligence is the most important skill today. More than half of your job performance is affected by your ability to create a positive company culture," Bracken said. "Events require creativity and engagement. Emotional intelligence is the fuel that makes it all possible." Keynote Speech Rich Bracken What advice does he have on how to manage emotions in order to…
How to Incorporate Ethical Leadership Principles into
“Business ethics” and “ethical leadership” may be just buzzwords to the average executive. Almost every business claims to strictly adhere to these practices. Also read: Leadership and company values in the service logistics industry: It’s time to take action But in the busy world of work, where executives must communicate the bottom line to shareholders, how many executives truly use ethics as the North Star in every decision they make? How many people have received training? Where on earth do they begin? First, it’s important to understand that ethical leadership and decision-making is more than just the right thing to do. “Research consistently shows that companies that adopt ethical policies and practices achieve better long-term financial performance and tend to be more successful,” Greenlee said. Today's emerging workforce demands to work for companies where ethical leadership and corporate social responsibility (CSR) are key principles. On the other hand, customers tend to remain loyal to companies and brands that operate according…
FWLE 2024 Women’s Leadership Conference Review TSE
LAS VEGAS – The Foundation for Women’s Leadership and Empowerment (FWLE) hosted its annual Women’s Leadership Conference at the MGM Grand Convention Center in Las Vegas on September 4 and 5. The conference, themed “Ourselves,” provided an immersive and interactive learning experience for attendees to share insights, participate in workshops, and network with other women leaders. Education at the event is also divided into three tracks: Emerging Leaders (Foundations), Emerging Executives (Growth), and Executives (Capabilities). These tracks not only help attendees attend educational sessions that are most relevant to their organizational level, but also provide attendees with a network of peers with whom they can discuss common challenges. Trade Show Executive I was there in person and summarized some key takeaways from the FWLE Women’s Leadership Conference keynote and the Women Leaders Roundtable. Key Point 1: Confidence is not a trait, but something you need to practice. In the event’s opening keynote, leadership author and speaker Selena Rezvani shared tips…
Learn more about UFI’s Next Generation Leadership Grant Program
for Young Professionals Recognition Program Guidelines, TSE spoke with Joe Kowalsky, 2022 UFI Next Generation Leadership (NGL) Award winner, Events Director at CloserStill Media and 2024 TSE Trailblazer, about his experiences. What was the application process like and was it difficult/easy to get your organization to support your application given the nature of the project the awardees had to complete? Joe: The NGL application process is deceptively simple. We give you a topic that our industry is looking for new perspectives on and ask for your thoughts. The entire process is you sharing your thoughts on what you think a certain topic could bring to our industry. It seems simple: write a short letter introducing your idea and submit a video presenting your concepts and understanding. However, the amount of times I had to rewrite the letter and have to stop the video and start over from scratch made the process challenging. There was always something I wanted to add…