Editorial Note: Originally published in the March 2025 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, I reflect on the remarkable evolution of women’s roles in the trade show industry and the exciting momentum we’re building toward a more equitable future. Working alongside talented female executives throughout my career, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of women’s leadership in exhibitions and events. While we celebrate significant progress, we must also acknowledge the work still ahead to achieve true gender parity in executive leadership.
The recent appointment of Marsha Flanagan as IAEE’s first female President and CEO since its founding in 1928 represents a historic milestone. This breakthrough, along with the increasing number of women serving as IAEE chairpersons in recent years, signals a positive shift in our industry’s leadership. These achievements demonstrate that we’re making strides in breaking down long-standing barriers, though we must maintain momentum to ensure these opportunities continue expanding.
IAEE’s “Skills Matrix and Job Descriptions” publication reveals both progress and persistent challenges for women in the industry. While we’ve seen significant advances in closing the pay gap, disparities remain. Furthermore, women continue to face unique obstacles in advancing to senior leadership positions, often encountering preconceived notions about gender and leadership styles that can undervalue their capabilities.
The evidence is clear: organizations that embrace diverse perspectives and leadership styles perform better. Women bring unique strengths to executive roles, contributing to more dynamic decision-making and improved organizational outcomes. Their ability to foster inclusive environments, build strong relationships, and drive innovation makes them invaluable leaders in our industry.
Industry executives can help accelerate progress by supporting mentoring and sponsorship programs that advance women’s leadership. These initiatives not only provide guidance and support, but help disrupt traditional male-dominated networks that can impede female advancement. Programs like IAEE’s Women’s Leadership Forum offer vital professional development and networking opportunities that have benefited countless women in our industry.
Executive leaders can also address systemic barriers such as offering flexible work policies that support work/life balance. Equal pay can be ensured through transparent compensation practices that eliminate gender-based disparities. Companies can create leadership development programs that address challenges women face in their career progression as well as foster inclusive cultures that value distinct leadership styles. By identifying and promoting talented women into executive positions, organizations can foster opportunity and advancement.
The future of our industry depends on our ability to harness all available talent. While we celebrate the increasing number of women in executive roles, we must remain committed to expanding these opportunities. Male colleagues play an essential role in this journey – their active support and advocacy help create an environment where women can thrive.
As we honor Women’s History Month, let’s recognize that achieving gender equity in leadership isn’t just about fairness – it’s about building a stronger, more innovative, and more successful industry. The talent, enthusiasm, and creativity that women bring to executive roles enhance our entire industry’s capabilities and potential.
This month, I challenge industry leaders to examine their organization’s practices and commit to concrete actions supporting women’s advancement. Together, we can build an industry that not only embraces women’s leadership but actively champions it and sets an example for other business sectors to follow.
In doing so, the future of the trade show industry will be stronger and more vibrant because we will be fully leveraging the tremendous talents and perspectives that women bring to executive leadership. Through continued dedication to mentorship, professional development, and the elimination of barriers, we’re creating a legacy of empowerment that will benefit generations of women leaders to come.
Chuck Grouzard
2025 IAEE Chairperson
Executive Vice President of Business Development, Creative and Design
GES
