CEM Instructors

Al Lomas, CMP, CMM, CVE, CEM, Consultant, Certified Consulting Services Al retired from the San Antonio Convention & Sports Entertainment Department with extensive experience in assembly venues utilized for exhibition, meetings, cultural performances, sports and concerts. Al possesses the certifications of CEM, CMP, CMM (from MPI) and a CVE – Certified Venue Executive from the International Association of Venue Management (IAVM). Al remains a member of MPI, IAVM and IAEE for the latest updates on all hospitality trends, security and bio- safety regulations and recommendations. Al has worked for the LA Auto Show for nine years involved in the management of security, exhibition, conference, meetings, logistics and consumer show management aspects. Al headed the MPI CMP Study Groups in San Antonio for 15 years. Since obtaining his CEM in 2007, he has taught CEM multiple times in the US and seven countries worldwide. Al served on the CEM Commission for three years and was the CEM Chair for one year. Al was also selected as the Bob Dallmeyer Educator of the Year in 2016.

Antonio Brito, CEM Emeritus, CMP, CEO, Newevents – Organizacao de Feiras e Eventos, Lda António Manuel Brito, CEM Emeritus, CMP, began his activity in the trade show industry almost 30 years ago and has directed and organized more than 100 trade shows throughout his career as well as several international conferences worldwide. He is a former Board Director of IAEE – International Association of Exhibitions and Events, MPI – Meetings Professionals International, and AFIDA – International Association for Exhibitions in Latin America. António also has a long experience as speaker and participant in several conferences and seminars in many countries including Portugal, Spain, Brazil, USA, UK, Bolivia, Mexico, South Korea, China and India. He is often invited to execute strategic consulting in some of the larger trade fairs and destinations worldwide, as well as to perform certified audits according to UFI standards. Through MPI he was a member of the EMEA – European & Middle East Advisory Committee, and of the Spanish Commission Training – AFE, in Spain, as well was Director of APFC (Portuguese Association of Trade Shows). Through IAEE he was member of the Board of Directors and also was member of the Board of AFIDA Latin America Trade Shows Association, where his work was intended to help the development of exhibitions industry over the world, as well as develop quality training in this sector. In 2010 he was invited to represent IAEE in Brazil and to develop at medium term, the CEM for Brazilian professionals, a position he has assumed with an outstanding success over the years. His professional qualifications have been recognized by the University of Madrid and he has the title of “Professional Expert in Trade Show marketing” as well as CEM – Certified in Exhibition Management, CMP – Certified in Meeting Planner and the certification in ROI Methodology. Recognized internationally, António currently develops activities as International Consultant specialized in trade shows to several multinational companies engaged in the trade show organization like Informa Group, Reed Exhibitions, AMR Consulting, MBB Consulting, Artexis, Easy Fairs and SMG. He is currently the only European trainer since 2006 accredited by IAEE as CEM faculty and has taught several courses of this program contributing to CEM certification of several professionals around the world. In 2010, António received the IAEE Chairman’s Award at a ceremony held during the Expo! Expo! in New Orleans, USA, before the entire industry sector. The IAEE Chairman’s Award is the highest award given as international recognition for his work towards the development of trade shows industry and events worldwide.  He was also nominated for Person of the Year in the Industry by the prestigious Spanish magazine “Expone”. In 2019, António was recognized as VIP “Honorary Speaker” during the 15th Anniversary of CEFCO, China Expo Forum for International Cooperation.

Lecturer Faculty of Business Administration, Chiang Mai University Dr. Buranapin, CIS, CEM, SEPC, DES, had served as Dean of Faculty of Business Administration at Chiang Mai University (CMU) between 2012 and 2020. He was appointed as a board member of Chiang Mai International Exhibition and Convention Center. At present, he has been serving TCEB: Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) as a member of the Thailand MICE Capabilities Development Committee and at CMU as the director of the Northern MICE Cluster. For more than 15 years, he has also been appointed as Chairman and member of Board of Director, Audit Committee, as well as Nomination and Governance Committee at various organizations and listed companies in the Stock Exchange of Thailand. As an academia at the Department of Management and Entrepreneurship, CMU Business School, he has published in the field of strategic management and organizational behavior. Besides professional training certificates, his educational background includes Advanced Professional Designation in International Business Administration, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Master of Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Sloan MIT), and Doctor of Business Administration, Boston University (Questrom BU), USA.

B. Murphy, CEM, Senior National Sales Manager, Fern B. Murphy, CEM is a Senior National Sales Manager with the National Sales Group of Fern Exposition Services. He is based in Alexandria, Virginia. He has been involved with conventions, exhibits and the meetings industry for over 20 years. B. is very active with several industry organizations including: PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association), MPI (Meeting Professionals International), SGMP (Society of Government Meeting Professionals), NCBMP (National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners), NLMP (Network of Latino Meeting Professionals), ASAE (American Society of Association Executives), AMPs (Association of Meeting Professionals), and IAEE (International Association for Exhibition and Events). He is Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) and a member of the CEM faculty for IAEE. B. received his CEM designation in 2013, and became a member of the faculty soon after. He is teaching CEM certification courses nationwide and throughout the world, including Bangkok, Thailand where he was asked to come back a third time. B. is very instrumental in maintaining relationships with Convention and Visitors Bureaus as well as associations across the country thereby giving Fern Exposition Services a nationwide presence.

Bob McLean, CPA, CAE, CEM, Interim President, Promotional Products Association International Robert (Bob) McLean is PPAI’s Interim President. He was hired in June 2008 as Chief Financial Officer and is responsible for finance and administration, information technology and the Promotional Products Education Foundation. In October 2011, Bob was promoted to EVP and now oversees PPAI’s tradeshow and membership departments.

Bradley Styba, CEM, Manager, Meetings and Events, Tourism Burnaby Bradley Styba, CEM, has worked in the event industry for 30 years in a variety of positions. He began as President of Medallion Event Services where he specialized in providing contract staff to many of the leading events and venues in Fraser Valley, British Columbia, Canada. Bradley spent over 30 years as the Director, Events and Business Development of Tradex, where he was responsible for the continued growth of one of the top venues in British Columbia. Currently he is the Manager of Meetings and Events for Tourism Burnaby a neighbouring community if Vancouver British Columbia. Bradley has achieved success by maintaining a high level of honesty and integrity, providing an environment that encourages team members to offer ways to improve the operation, and the ability to adapt to an ever-changing market.

Catherine Mellett, CEM In 2020, Catherine Mellett founded JerseyCat Productions, LLC, a company dedicated in understanding the complexities and strategic challenges facing the restart in the live events / tradeshow sector by providing executed solutions. Uncomplicate the complicated by contracting a partner with a strategic accomplished and result driven record on a project basis no matter the size. Has a demonstrated history of working in the events services industry on a national platform. Freeman employee from 1993 -2020 in NY/NY; Southern California; Chicago Corporate; Reed Exhibition, CT in-house liaison. Special productions: The Smithsonian 150th Anniversary road tour (1997): Republican National Convention (1996; 2000; 2004; 2008 & 2012). Catherine is a member of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE); Certification in Event Management (CEM); is a CEM Faculty member and certified NCTMB.

Cathy Breden, CMP, CAE, CEM, Executive Vice President & COO, IAEE In her role as EVP/COO, Cathy Breden oversees marketing and communications, conventions and events, membership, education, and administration of the association. In addition, she currently serves as CEO of the Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) whose primary purpose is to promote the growth, awareness and value of exhibitions and other face-to-face marketing events by producing and delivering research-based knowledge tools. She is a frequent presenter on the areas of exhibition industry trends and the power of exhibitions in face-to-face marketing. She is currently serving as Vice Chair on the Events Industry Council’s Board of Directors, is a director on the board of Tourism Diversity Matters, and she is adjunct faculty at Richland College. Cathy is a Certified Association Executive (CAE), Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM). She is a graduate of Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA.

Chandran Nair, CEM, General Manager, SingEx Holdings Pte Ltd Mr. Chandran Nair, CEM is the General Manager, SingEx Holdings Pte Ltd, a fully owned subsidiary of Temasek Holdings, an investment company owned by the Government of Singapore. SingEx is in the business of developing and organizing trade exhibitions and conferences; and the management and operation of exhibition and conference venues.  SingEx organizes exhibitions in Asia, Europe and Africa. In his 35 years in the business, Chandran served as a Committee Member of the “Trade Fairs & Trade Mart” Committee of the World Trade Centre Association, USA; the UFI Education Committee; and the Executive Committee of the Singapore Association of Conventions and Exhibitions Organizers and Suppliers (SACEOS) as its Vice President and chairman, Continuing Education and Training.

Charlotte Pearson, CEM-AP, Vice President of Sales – Western Region, Eventgineer, T3Expo Charlotte Pearson, CEM-AP, joined T3 Expo as the Vice President of Sales- Western Region, in October 2020, and is working out of their flagship facility in Henderson, NV. Charlotte is actively working with Western Region CVB’s and hotel partners to assist in achieving their mutual clients’ success. She is responsible for sales management, strategic sales planning, and pre/show site/post show support on over 30 tradeshows per year. Charlotte has been an active member of IAEE since 1992 and was the 2015 Chair of the CEM Commission. Charlotte also served on the IAEE Education Committee for several years and eventually chaired the committee. Charlotte is a CEM International Faculty member and teaches several times a year in the US, as well as internationally in Chinese Taipei, Thailand, India and Korea.

Cookie Walner, CMP, CMM, CAE, CEM, HMCC, Global Project Manager, ConferenceDirect Cookie Walner, CMP, CMM, CAE, CEM is the Director of Relationship Management for the Association of Air Medical Services. Previously she was the Global Project Manager at ConferenceDirect. Her professional career includes association and corporate experience orchestrating meetings, events and international tradeshows of 10 with up to 16,000 attendees. She strategizes with her clients for success and designs the programs to achieve their goals. Cookie has over 20 years of experience in the industry. Presented with the opportunity to plan and execute tradeshows after a long career focused on meetings and events, she knew that IAEE and the CEM certification was the path to learning best practices. She received her CEM designation in 2013 and became a CEM faculty member in 2014. You can find her teaching online, in-person and virtually for courses internationally and in the US. A lifetime learner, Cookie shares her knowledge, experience and curiosity to teach and learn with and from the CEM candidates. Active in the meeting industry, she has served IAEE on multiple national committees. Cookie chaired the CEM Commission in 2018 and was recognized by IAEE as the 2018 Volunteer of the Year.

Dan Cole, CEM, Senior Business Development Executive, AVIXA Dan Cole, CEM, has more than 30 years of professional sales and leadership experience, most recently as the Executive Vice President of Sales Development for the International Spy Museum where he oversaw event and group sales as well as corporate fundraising. Prior to that he served as Senior Vice President, Trade Shows and Exhibits for Hargrove and Vice President of Business Development for the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) and the organization which produces it — the Consumer Technologies Association. In 1992, after a five-year tenure in sales at Lanier Worldwide, Dan began his career in the trade show industry as a national accounts manager for National Trade Productions, progressing to sales director. He then went on to hold a number of important executive positions at companies such as Advanstar and Yellowbrix. Dan has won numerous sales and leadership awards including IAEE’s most outstanding sales and marketing executive, the International Business Awards’ most outstanding sales executive, and was recognized by Dealerscope Magazine’s “40 under 40.” Dan is a highly sought-after writer, speaker and sales trainer.

Donna Jarvis-Miller, CEM, CMP, Director, Membership Operations and Events, American Public Human Services Association Donna Jarvis Miller, CEM, CMP, has over 25 years of experience in show production, exhibit and sponsorship sales and event and conference management. Her industry work has included developing and executing integrated marketing plans, developing and managing education programs, overseeing and managing volunteer leader committees, association conferences and trade shows ranging from 80 – 2,500 attendees and public shows.

Donna Johnson, CEM-AP, CMP, Vice President, Operations, MCI, USA Donna Johnson, CEM-AP, CMP, utilizes over 30 years of experience as a professional event director in the U.S. and worldwide to bring together exhibitors and attendees with the goal of optimizing the journey for all stakeholders. She is an executive leader who implements the industry’s best practices to achieve the organization’s strategic goals, drive revenue and exceed expectations. Over the course of her executive career, Donna has formed solid business partnerships, led negotiations, managed multi-million-dollar budgets and produced innovative programs covering all facets of conference and expo operation, as well as sales and marketing activities. Donna’s strengths include streamlining staff efficiencies, strong negotiation skills that increase bottom-line revenue, and the ability to understand the evolving marketplace and adapt quickly to global changes. Her experience with organizing committees and leadership teams enables Donna to build and leverage relationships on behalf of the client.

Dr. Duangdej Yuaikwarmdee, CEM, DES, SEP, Director of Exhibition Department, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) Before Joining TCEB, Duangdej worked over 14 years at Reed Tradex Company, ASEAN’s leading exhibition organizer, a member of Reed Exhibitions, as a deputy Managing Director and Chief Sales Officer. He has intensive experiences with marketing and sales management, budgeting, new show launch and international interaction in exhibition industry. He had appointed as one of professional speakers for annual sales and marketing academy organized by Reed Exhibition – Asia Pacific region, and also a speaker for TCEB Academic Programs such as Coach the Coaches. In addition, he has invited as a visiting lecturer for MICE curriculum.

Dr. Jaruwan Suwannasat, CEM, DES, Director of MICE Intelligence and Innovation Department, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) Jaruwan was the founder of TCEB’s MICE Intelligence & Innovation Department in 2017, supporting the trade show industry since 2006. She served as Director of International Trade Fairs since 2012. At TCEB, Jaruwan has experience working in marketing, Heineken brand event management and retail business from Boots Retails and Central Retails. Jaruwan graduated with a PhD in Technopreneurship & Innovation Management and a Master’s degree in International Marketing with an interest in management marketing, digital marketing and innovation management.

Dr. Sam Potolicchio, President, Preparing Global Leaders Forum (PGLF) Dr. Sam Potolicchio was named one of “America’s Best Professors” by the Princeton Review, the Future Leader of American Higher Education by the Association of Colleges and Universities, and winner of the OZY Educator Award as one of the six outstanding American educators. He was also profiled in a cover story on his leadership curriculum by Newsweek Japan as the “Best Professor in America”. Potolicchio is President of the Preparing Global Leaders Forum and Distinguished University Professor, Department Chairman and Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Political Science at the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration. He is a visiting lecturer at the University of Bologna (Italy). He is a columnist for Newsweek Japan, a Distinguished Global Scholar at the Canterbury School of Fort Myers, and a lecturer on Leadership at the Library of Congress for OWLC, an international leadership program of the United States Congress. Potolicchio is an adviser to prominent business, non-profit and government leaders. He created and designed the first undergraduate degree in Global Governance and Leadership in English in the Russian Federation where he serves as Academic Director. Potolicchio has served as the Director of Global and Custom Education at the McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University, has been a visiting professor at New York University, and joined Senator Richard Lugar as tag team senior lecturers at UIndy’s Semester in Washington. Potolicchio has delivered lectures in over 85 countries, from Oxford, LSE, Cambridge and Yale to Iraq’s Komar University and Donetsk State University. As a middle-school basketball coach, he led his Little Hoyas to 6 league titles and previously served as a 5th grade Latin teacher, public high school teacher of Law and History and secondary school admissions officer.

Dr. Suhbpong Smithtun, CEM, CIS, CED, Executive Director, Innova Technology and Consultant Services (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Dr. Suhbpong is a 22-year veteran in the field of exhibitions as a trade show organizer for both domestic and international fairs, spanning industries of agriculture, education, healthcare, pet, livestock, and horticulture. He has been teaching MICE and English for major public and private Thai universities since 2005, and once served as a Chairperson of Education and Development Committee of Thai Exhibition Association (TEA). Currently, he is working as Executive Director at Innova Technology and Consultant Services (Thailand) Co., Ltd.

Dr. Supalux Suvathi, CEM, CIS, CED, DES, SEPC, Managing Director, D-63 Co., Ltd. Dr. Suvathi is Managing Director at D-63 Co., Ltd. with a demonstrated history of working in the marketing and advertising industry. She is skilled in event planning, integrated marketing, exhibition design and management, branding and identity, brand implementation, and live events. She acquired her Doctorate degree from Philosophy in Sports Management, Sports Science, Chulalongkorn University and graduated from the MBA School of Business Administration from National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA). Additionally, Dr. Suvathi earned her Bachelor of Industrial Design, Faculty of Architecture, Chulalongkorn University. She also served as the Chairperson of Standard and Sustainable at Thai Exhibition Association (TEA) and Secretary at Event Management Association (EMA).

Duangrat Thatsanaprasert, CEM, CIS, Advisor, BITEC Management Co., Ltd. (BITEC) Duangrat has a strong background in the hospitality industry for over 30 years. She has worked in a variety of roles within the hospitality industry, from entry-level positions to senior sales management positions for Landmark Hotel, Centara Grand at Central Plaza Hotel, Bangkok. And for the past 25 years, she has been working with BITEC – Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre, where she has held the position of General Manager responsible for the leadership of overall daily management, Sales, Marketing, and related operations for MICE Events. Throughout her career, she has developed expertise in strategic sales management, and her commitment to excellence has led her to earn certifications such as the CEM & CIS in 2021 and an EMD designation (Event Management Degree) since 2009. In addition to her professional accomplishments, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Bangkok University and a Master’s degree in Political Science. Currently, she serves as an Advisor of BITEC Management, and she is excited to bring her wealth of knowledge and experience to the MICE industry by sharing her expertise and contributing to her professional growth and success.

Edward Liu, PBM, CEM, Managing Director, Conference & Exhibition Management Services Pte Ltd Mr. Edward Liu is the Group Managing Director of Conference & Exhibition Management Services (CEMS), which operates in Singapore, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. In China, CEMS organizes four tourism exhibitions, including the Beijing International Tourism Expo (BITE) series, which is the largest event of its kind in Beijing. Mr. Liu is the current President of the Asian Federation of Exhibition & Convention Associations (AFECA) and an Honorary President of the Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers (SACEOS), which was founded in 1979.

Emmanuel Lamadrid Preciado, MBA, CEM, Director, Display Art Global Exhibition Solutions Emmanuel Lamadrid Preciado has a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the Pan-American Institute of Higher Business Management (IPADE). He has been devoted for more than 20 years to the exhibition, congress and conventions industry. Emmanuel is currently president of Display Art – Creating Exhibitions Experiences, a company specialized in event productions in the meeting industry. Furthermore, he is CEO of Ranking Web – Developing Powerful Brands, an organization focused on digital marketing. Emmanuel is also vice-president of regions in the Mexican Association of Trade Affairs, Exhibitions and Conventions A.C (AMPROFEC), co-founder of the Mexican Advice of the Meeting Industry (COMIR), member of the Marketing and Internationalization Committee of Expo Guadalajara, and member of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) faculty. Former president of the IAEE Mexico Chapter, Emmanuel has also written in Forbes magazine and he is an active lecturer regarding topics such as the meeting industry, marketing, entrepreneurship and innovation. He has delivered presentations for the MPI México Chapter, American Chamber México, Jewelry Expo, Furniture Expo, Global Meetings Industry Day, Global Exhibitions Day and for universities such as TEC de Monterrey, UNIVA, Universidad de Guadalajara, Universidad de León and Universidad Pan-Americana.

Erika Welling, CEM, DES, Experiential Strategist Erika Welling, CEM, DES has decades of experience as an innovative and highly driven marketing and operations leader in the hospitality industry. Having been on launch teams for exhibitions, events, attractions, and tours, she utilizes those skills and experiences in her role as CEO and Founder of Blendz Events. Erika has provided resources and guidance to many during her career, which includes senior-level operations and marketing for international general service contractors in the exhibitions and events industry. Previous to working in the general services contracting world, Erika was Regional and International Director for Themed Restaurants and Attractions, and Director for a prominent Las Vegas transportation and sightseeing company. Erika has served over 18 years on the board of the Las Vegas Hospitality Association (LVHA), presently serves as an SWIAEE Board Director, is on the CEM faculty and commission and is the Chair for the IAEE Membership Engagement Committee. Throughout her career, Erika has served on boards of tourism, professional education and philanthropic associations. Erika invariably incorporates her education learned from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh and art experience within her profession. In her free time, she enjoys an assortment of art projects, reading, skiing, and hiking.

Herve Joseph-Antoine, Global Managing Director, Pacific World Since 2012, Herve Joseph-Antoine has been the Global Managing Director of Pacific World, a global destination and event management company leader headquartered in Asia and operating in 30 countries around the world including Asia, Europe, Middle East and Africa. Pacific World formed an alliance with ACCESS Destinations in the United States, forming the first and largest MICE integrated Destination offering with more than 100 destinations and 500 MICE experts worldwide. In the past 2 years, Pacific World received many awards such as “Top Business Events companies” in Asia by CEI Magazine, and also leading Inbound Travel Agent in Indonesia and Best Incentive Award in Malaysia.

Jair Lopez Montes, CEM, Director, Cancun International Convention Center Jair has been active in the Exhibitions and Conventions industry for 12 years. He has had the opportunity to work with different Convention Centers in Mexico has Expo Chihuahua, Cintermex , Queretaro Centro de Congresos and currently is directing the Cancun International Convention Center. Jair has served as a member of the IAEE Mexico Chapter since 2014.

James Letchworth, CEM, Senior Sales Manager, GES Jim Letchworth, CEM, started his career in the trade show industry in 1991 working for a family owned general services contractor in the California market. During that time, he held various roles including exhibitor services, account management and sales leadership. In 2006, Jim made the move over to GES as Senior Sales Manager, where he enjoyed continued career growth. He is and has been very active with the International Association of Exhibition and Events (IAEE) for over the past 20 years serving on the Southwest Chapter board of directors, as well as the chapter Chairperson in 2007. Through IAEE, Jim has furthered his industry education as a graduate of the Krakoff Leadership Institute and the Sales Academy as well as achieving his CEM designation (Certified in Exhibition Management) in 2007.

Janet Sperstad, CMP-F Janet Sperstad’s career reflects a lifetime of global leadership driving excellence in event and exhibition management. Her work defining the competencies and career pathways that position event and exhibition planning as a design discipline – requiring skills in the social sciences, executive leadership, and cognitive sciences – is recognized internationally. Janet is widely recognized as an inspiring speaker and educator in the events and exhibitions industry, known for sharing pragmatic inspiration around integrating neuroscience into leadership, event design, and event business development. Madison College honored Janet by naming her faculty emerita for her body of work contributions to the college and events industry. She is an inductee of the Events Industry Council Hall of Leaders and has been recognized as one of the top 25 Most Influential People in the Meetings and Events Industry Successful Meetings, Event Industry Changemaker of the Year by Meetings Net, International Meeting Planner of the Year by Meeting Professionals Internation (MPI), and Outstanding Achievement in Industry Leadership by International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE).

Jennifer Kerhin, MBA, CEM, CMP, President, SB Expos & Events Jennifer Kerhin, MBA, CEM, CMP President of SB Expos & Events, has more than 20 years’ experience working with association trade shows and business development functions. Jennifer has her certification in exhibition management (CEM), an MBA from the Johns Hopkins University and substantial executive level association experience. She founded Sponsorship Boost to support the mission of associations by increasing their non-dues revenue through exhibits and sponsorships. Understanding that active involvement within associations is the key to success, Jennifer is a committed member and volunteer for IAEE. She has been a speaker at ASAE’s Annual Meeting, IAEE’s Expo! Expo! and CadmiumCD’s User conference, CadCon. She also founded the IAEE DC Chapter Women’s Leadership book club.

Executive Director The Exhibitor Advocate Jessica is a seasoned marketer and social impact professional with a unique collection of experiences ranging from event marketing, community engagement, philanthropy and corporate branding. Jessica has over 20 years’ experience driving the development of strategic events and social impact programs for leading brands in the natural and organic industry. Jessica is a CTSM (Certified Trade Show Marketer), CMP (Certified Meeting Planner), and holds certifications in corporate social responsibility from Boston College and the University of Colorado. Jessica is the Executive Director of The Exhibitor Advocate, a non-profit, trade association dedicated to amplifying the voice of exhibitors. The group is on a mission to raise awareness of exhibitor challenges and collaborate with all industry stakeholders to promote and cultivate open communication, consistent standards and industry best practices. Jessica has held positions on both the show management and exhibitor side of the trade show industry. She understands the unique challenges of the industry and believes that collaboration between all stakeholders will uphold exhibitions and events as a valuable and irreplaceable marketing channel. In addition to The Exhibitor Advocate role, Jessica operates as an exhibit marketer through her consulting business, Jessica Sibila Consulting. She previously led the corporate event and community engagement strategy for WhiteWave Foods and Danone North America. She now extends that expertise to companies developing strategic events to elevate their impact. When she’s not on the trade show floor, Jessica can be found hiking, biking and traveling with her family. She’s a lover of all things food and wine and will gladly take your restaurant recommendations.

Jimmy Lau, CEM, Adult Educator/Facilitator Jimmy spent 40 years in the MICE industry. He served in various appointments, including President of Reed Exhibitions Singapore and Managing Director for Experia Events where he co-founded Singapore Airshow. Having been closely associated with the commercial aviation and aerospace defence industry for more than 20 years, he co-founded Singapore’s first low-cost airline “Valuair” in 2005. He is a member of the Youth Aviation Advisory Board Singapore and Chairs the Licensing and Disciplinary Committee for the Malaya Racing Association and the Marketing Communication Committee for Singapore Turf Club. Today, he runs his own security firm, providing manpower and security equipment for hotels and commercial buildings. Jimmy is ACTA certified and as an Adult Educator, his job relates to the direct development of people within the security industry. He is particularly keen in international marketing, working in cross-cultural environment and brand building. Jimmy also served as President of SACEOS from 1998 – 2002.

Josephine (Josie) Caldwell, CEM-AP, DES, Senior Client Relationship Director, Freeman Since earning her degree at The American University, Josie Zámolyi Caldwell, CEM-AP, DES has been involved in the meetings and events industry. She currently is a Senior Client Relationship Director for Freeman. Her expertise as a seasoned event professional in the Meetings and Events industry has helped her in her career by being able to adapt to different business situations. Her passion is events and tradeshows! She supports her teams to provide customer solutions and pricing that create value for clients. She understands how to coordinate with the operational arm of an organization to deliver the personal and unique aspects of each event. Josie has embraced the industry and enjoys sharing her knowledge with her industry family. Once meeting Josie in person, clients know that she is very transparent, genuinely cares and is a true team partner and embraces challenges all around. In her spare time, Josie’s passion for cooking, has turned into “Josie’s FUN Kitchen” a YouTube Channel where Josie has FUN sharing her cooking tips and recipes.

Juan Gabriel Tamez, CEM, Managing Director, Expo, Guadalajara Convention Center Juan Gabriel Tamez, CEM has more than 25 years of experience in the exhibitions and meetings industry in México, specifically in sales, operation, marketing and management for venues, mostly convention centers and auditoriums. Currently he is one of five Mexican instructors accredited by IAEE as CEM faculty teaching courses throughout the year to CEMs and CEM candidates. He also teaches the CVP certification program for IAVM in México in partnership with AMEREF. Juan Gabriel actively supports the industry as Venues VP in AMPROFEC and recently Past Chairman of AMEREF. He is part of the IAVM Certification Board. Juan Gabriel is also a volunteer and instructor for the Mexican Red Cross.

Juan Pablo de Vera, CEM, CEO, Xplatina Juan Pablo De Vera, CEM, is a trade show executive with more than 26 years leading events and organizations in Brazil, Mexico and Argentina. He was with Reed Exhibitions for more than 23 years as President for Reed Exhibitions in Brazil and Senior VP for Business Development in Latin America. In 2018, becomes the CEO for the largest Brazilian audiovisual rental company with presence in 54 locations in Brazil and strategic alliances in 8 countries across Latin America. Currently, Juan Pablo is the Founder and CEO of XPlatina. Created in 2018, the company is responsible for implementing the most complete creative event production processes following the most updated international standards, and observing the best practices for health and safety, cost efficiency, governance, sustainability and social responsibility. XPlatina has an established track record of consecutive years of growth and performance in the events services industry across Latin America. Juan Pablo is skilled in general management, sales development, marketing execution and event management and if fluent in Spanish, Portuguese and English. He has more than two decades as an active member of the most relevant associations for the event industry in Latin America and has being nominated three times as Chairman of the Board and President of UBRAFE, the Brazilian Association of Trade Shows Organizers. He supports the young professional’s communities serving as lecturer and coordinator for advanced courses on executive management development in local business schools. He most recently completed the Advanced Management Program focused on organizational leadership from IESE Business School in Barcelona, Spain, as well the Executive Program at the Singularity University in California, US.

Julie Smith, CEM-AP, CTA, Senior Vice President, Business Development, Global Experience Specialists (GES) Julie Smith, CEM-AP, CTA, is senior vice president, business development, GES, where she manages a portfolio of business and GES’ West Coast business development team. Smith is a past chair of IAEE, a past president of ESCA, and a past chair of the CEIR board, and has served on many committees and the boards of these organizations. She was IAEE’s inaugural Woman of Achievement, and earned ESCA’s Lifetime Achievement award, among other honors. She is chair of the Event Industry Council’s APEX new business model working group and led the EIC COVID 19 business recovery working group that developed the B2B and B2C Exhibitions accepted practices guide. A frequent speaker and contributor, Smith also served as a mentor for SDSU’s School of Hospitality & Tourism graduate program; was previously on the boards of Visit Anaheim and Local 831’s Health & Pension trusts; and is a CEM faculty member who taught CEM courses in seven countries.

Kellie Shevlin, CEM, Executive Director, Craft Beverage Expo Kellie Shevlin, CEM earned her Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) designation in 2007, was featured by Exhibit City News on its “40 under 40” list, and holds wine certifications for the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) and the Society of Wine Educators Certified Scholar of Wine (CSW). Having spent a year researching the craft beverage market and getting counsel from industry leaders, she identified a void in the space and found a need to service the craft segment specifically, and more importantly, the need for a post-production focus to improve businesses of craft beverage companies nationally.

Kerry Painter, CEM, CMP, CFE, General Manager/Director, Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex Kerry Painter CEM, CMP, CFE is the General Manager/Director of the Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex which encompasses the Raleigh Convention Center, Duke Energy Performing Arts Center, Red Hat Amphitheater and Walnut Creek Amphitheater. Previously, Kerry was the AGM in Tulsa, Oklahoma where the convention center won the Venue Excellence award in 2017. Earlier to that, she was the President/GM in Niagara Falls Canada and has assisted in constructing/opening five venues in total throughout her lengthy career. Kerry is a member of IAVM, IAEE and PCMA, and has served on several boards/committees both within the industry and in her communities. She serves as the Treasurer on the IAVM Foundation and was awarded Venues Today Woman of Influence in 2015 and Woman of Distinction in 2017. Kerry teaches at the Venue Management School yearly for IAVM and both domestic as well as internationally for CEM classes through IAEE (Korea and Bangkok), and advises for Meredith woman’s college. Kerry is a graduate of the University of Michigan majoring in Business, Economics and Communications. She has a son Garrett who is 17 years old, and they live with their new cat Bachelor, a bearded dragon named Kermit and a 36-year-old box turtle Mr. B in Raleigh.

Kimberly Hardcastle-Geddes, CEM, Chief Marketing Strategist, mdg As President and Chief Marketing Strategist of the nation’s leading marketing and public relations agency specializing in B2B events, Hardcastle-Geddes and her team provide solutions that increase attendance and exhibitor participation for several of the largest and most successful trade shows and conferences in the country. Kimberly has worked in both the United States and Europe, holds an MSBA with an emphasis in Marketing and has 20 years of industry experience. She is an IAEE Krakoff Leaders Institute alumna, the editor of mdg’s trade show marketing newsletter, a presenter of industry seminars on strategic market planning and is a recipient of IAEE’s Educator of the Year Award and Trade Show Executive’s Marketing Genius Award.

Kyle Jordan, Ed.M., MS, CAE, CEM-AP, CMP, DES, CMM, Director, Meetings, The Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences, (INFORMS) Kyle Jordan, CAE, CEM-AP, CMP, DES serves as the Director of Meetings for The Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS) located in Catonsville, MD. In this position he provides overall strategic leadership and execution of the organization’s signature meetings and conferences. Prior to joining INFORMS, Kyle held leadership positions at the National Confectioners Association (NCA), the Financial Planning Association (FPA) and Synergos Association Management Company. Throughout Kyle’s career he has been responsible for designing unique event experiences and creating learning journeys for a broad range of professions and industries. Kyle is a Certified Association Executive (CAE), Certified in Exhibition Management Advanced Professional (CEM-AP), a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) and a Digital Event Strategist (DES). He is an active volunteer with several professional associations and organizations and serves as faculty for the International Association of Exhibitions and Events CEM programme. In 2013 Collinson Media named Kyle one of the Top 40 Under 40 meeting professionals in the industry. Kyle received a Bachelor of Art Degree in Political Science and Gender Studies from Valparaiso University, and he has earned a Master of Education from Washington State University and a Master of Science in Human Resources from Western Carolina University. Kyle also completed a Certificate of Meeting Management (CMM) from Meetings Professionals International and the Kelly School of Business at Indiana University.

Ladda Mongkolchaivivat, CEM, Advisor, Thai Exhibition Association and Thailand Exhibition and Convention Bureau As the Advisor at Thai Exhibition Association and Thailand Exhibition and Convention Bureau, Ladda has over 20 years of experience in the exhibition industry.  She was awarded Smart Agricultural Innovation for Next Generation program in Northern Agricultural Exhibition in Chaingmai in 2019. Ladda graduated Mini MBA from Chulalongkorn University and acquired her Bachelor’s degree from Assumption University – Major in Marketing.

LeeAnn Norton, CEM-AP, COO, Connex LeeAnn Norton, CEM-AP, joined Connex (formerly PRSM) in 2014 as Director of Vendor Relations & Events and was responsible for overall management of the Facility Management shows in the US and Canada. She is currently the COO at PRSM. With over 20 years in show management experience, LeeAnn has served on various IAEE Committees, including serving as the current Chairperson of the CEM Commission, was appointed the Krakoff Leadership Representative on the IAEE Board of Directors, has been a speaker/panelist for IAEE, is a current CEM Faculty member, and has served on numerous industry advisory boards. Along with IAEE, other professional affiliations include ASAE, DFWAE, and MPI. She received her CEM in 2012 and graduated from the IAEE Krakoff Leadership Institute in 2013.

Líbia Lender Macedo, CEM, Director of DicaEvento’s website/ Conceito and Soluções Cia/ University Teacher Líbia Macedo, CEM, is brazilian, fluent in Portuguese, Spanish and English, and has mixed her career between the corporate and academic sector, but always with the events industry. Líbia served as planning at events agencies organizing incentive trips, trade shows and worked on mega sporting events like: Confederation Cup, World Cup and Pan American Games in operational areas and hospitality. She is a member of MPI and was VP of Education in Chapter Brazil. Líbia is a professor in undergraduate and postgraduate programs in events management and consultant for the sector of exhibition and sporting events.

Lloyd Tan, CEM, General Manager – Government & Lifestyle Group, Experia Events Pte Ltd  Lloyd Tan, CEM is passionate about exhibitions and conferences and he believes that “it really works!” With more than 30 years of combined experience in the media and exhibition industry, he has gained considerable on-the-ground experience and insights of the industry to make events work.  Lloyd’s experience and expertise covers strategic marketing, sales and project management as well as marketing communications, attendee marketing and conference departments. He is currently with Experia Events Pte Ltd as the General Manager – Government & Lifestyle Group.

Matthew Kalb, CEM-AP, CMP, Vice President of Client Experiences, T3 Expo Matthew Kalb, CEM-AP, CMP, is an international CEM Instructor who facilitates interactive learning experiences through an evidence-based lens. A self-proclaimed bibliophile, he is committed to empowering leaders in the meeting and event profession to undergo mindset shifts, embrace deeper thinking, and champion authenticity and vulnerability. Outside of his professional pursuits, Matt is an enthusiastic scuba diver, globe-trotter, and a passionate advocate for all things related to the ocean.

Melanie Mathis, CEM, Customer Service Manager, ConvExx Melanie Mathis, CEM is the Customer Service Manager at ConvExx. Her duties include hiring, training, and management of the customer service team as well as registration management for the company owned trade events. In addition to her duties, she has also been a guest lecturer at UNLV for their Tourism and Hospitality degree program. She received her B.A. in Political Science from the University of Southern California. Melanie is a young professional and is an avid believer in the CEM program and advancing YPs in the industry. She is currently a member of the IAEE CEM Commission and the Marketing & Communications Committee for the Southwest Chapter of IAEE.

Michael Dargavel, CEM, Vice President, Association and Events Management Michael Dargavel, CEM is Vice President of Association and Events Management (A&E Management), a Toronto based Association Management Company (AMC). A&E Management is a full service AMC providing specialized services to both trade and professional associations. Michael produces several conferences, trade shows and events each year, within industries such as the apparel, toys, telecommunication and health care. In 2006, he created the 100% Fresh Trade Show. In 2009, Michael created the highly successful Profile Show, an apparel show incorporating all commodities of the industry. In 2011, Michael merged the Profile Show with the Ontario Fashion Exhibitors show to become Canada’s largest apparel and accessories show. Michael Dargavel was awarded the prestigious 2018 Hall of Fame Industry Builder Award from Meetings + Incentive Travel Magazine. Mr. Dargavel was recognized for his outstanding contributions to the Trade and Consumer Show Industry in Canada, including his ongoing leadership and support of the CEM (Certified in Exposition Management) program in Canada. Michael has served as Certified in Exhibition Learning Program (CEM) faculty for the past ten years offered by the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) and currently sits on the CEM Commission. Prior to joining Association and Events Management, Michael spent 20 years in the hospitality industry.

Mike Klemm, CEM, Director – Business Development, Global Convention Services Ltd Michael Klemm, CEM is the Director – Business Development, for Global Convention Services based out of Halifax, Nova Scotia. He has been in the hospitality industry for over 30 years, previously spending time with GES as their Director of Sales for Western Canada. Michael has a degree in Law Enforcement and Security, as well as experience from managing SHOWTECH which provides temporary electrical and lighting services in Western Canada. He also managed conferences and events for the Shaw Conference Centre in Edmonton, Alberta and has been on several Canadian Association of Exposition Management (CAEM) conference and development committees. Michael was awarded the 2015 Canadian Association of Exposition Management (CAEM) Associate Member of the Year.

Mr. Chinakit Viphavakit, CEM, Consultant: Exhibition & Event, Index Creative Village Chinakit holds a Master of Commerce at The University of Sydney from Australia and has been active in the exhibition industry since 2010. With his roles, he has organized shows in many countries in Southeast Asia including Cambodia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar and Thailand and gaining skills in Sales & Marketing, Event Operations, Project Development and Project Management.  He obtained his Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) designation in 2019.

Ms. Orachorn Wongpan-ngam, CEM, CIS, CED, DES, EMD, SEPC, Director of MICE Capabilities Development Department, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) Orachorn brings a successful blend of strategic management and operational skills developed over 30 years in the exhibition & events industry. She joined Reed Tradex (a member of Reed Exhibitions, the world’s leading event organizer) in 1992 and was appointed as Group Project Manager and developed the Thailand & Vietnam market. She currently serves Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) as Director of MICE Capabilities Development Department. Her experiences in partnership and MICE certification program development complemented by her passion in grooming human capital for the industry and escalating the country to global standards, Orachorn is in charge of overall planning and strategizing the entire development of Thailand’s MICE industry. She is determined to drive the country’s MICE Capabilities forward through content development, knowledge-based management, networking expansion, MICE education and competitiveness enhancement, global standards reinforcement, and sustainability concept implementation in Thailand’s MICE industry.

Nancy Milani, CEM-AP, CMP, Consultant Nancy Milani, CEM-AP, CMP, is an engaging and collaborative leader with extensive experience in event management. She has created, produced and executed over 350 corporate events, conferences, trade and consumer shows, professional sporting events, political forums, galas and association fundraisers. Nancy is active on numerous industry boards and committees including the Canadian Association of Exhibition Management (CAEM) and the Education Committee with IAEE. She shares her passion for the industry by facilitating Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) courses for IAEE in Canada, the United States and Asia.

Necoya Tyson, CEM-AP, CCEP, CGMP, Owner & CEO, Lightsey Event Solutions (LES) Necoya Tyson is the visionary entrepreneur and driving force behind Lightsey Event Solutions (LES), a leading conference and trade show management firm. With a passion for creating unparalleled event experiences and a keen understanding of the intricacies of the industry, Necoya has built a reputation for excellence and innovation. Having started LES from the ground up, Necoya brings a wealth of expertise in trade show logistics, strategic planning, and client relationship management. With a career spanning almost 20 years in the trade show and event management sector, she has successfully overseen the execution of numerous high-profile events, earning the trust of clients and industry partners alike. Beyond her professional pursuits, Necoya is an active participant in industry associations and forums, contributing her insights to further elevate the standards of trade show management. She is a graduate of Shaw University with a bachelor’s degree in mass communications. She is also a certified corporate event planner (CCEP), certified in exhibition management advanced professional (CEM-AP) and certified government meetings professional (CGMP).  

Director of Agribusiness and Operations VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific Co., Ltd. Panadda has over twelve years’ experience in international B2B marketplace offline and online. A skilled director who works multi-talks in the international organization with partners from worldwide to cover the big picture and identify tasks to facilitate on time and cost-efficient completion. Able to create a strategic plan, seeking for the new partners, develop new projects, products and platforms including joint venture contracts, budget, communication, and operation planning.

Vice-Chairperson Bhiraj Buri Group Panittha has been working with BITEC for over 20 years with extensive experiences in MICE industry. Starting from Executive Assistant to Director of Sales and Marketing, she is now leading BITEC as Managing Director. Under Panittha’s management, BITEC has grown from strength to strength with expansion of several world-class event halls and facilities and development of new programmings and solutions for clients. In addition to Managing Director at BITEC, Panittha has been elected as UFI Board Member, Vice-Chair of the UFI Asia Pacific Chapter, AIPC Board Member as well as committee for domestic colleges and consultant for local government sector. She also has experiences as speaker for invited sessions and special lecturer for universities.

Pravit Sribanditmongkol, CEM-Emeritus, DES, SEPC, Advisor, Thai Exhibition Association (TEA) Pravit joined Kingsmen C.M.T.I. PCL in 2003. He has been responsible for marketing and operations for exhibition and event business. For the past decade, he heads the company under the roles of managing director for overall business units. Before joining Kingsmen C.M.T.I., Pravit was deputy managing director for Reed Tradex Company in Thailand to oversee and be responsible for the bottom line of business units for several industry trade shows. He was the former president of Thai Exhibition Association (TEA) during 2011-2012, after serving the association as secretary general for years. Currently he was re-elected to be president of the association for the next two-year term from 2021-2022. During his terms at TEA, Pravit had many opportunities to speak to industry professionals and lecture for university students as well as at UFI’s international forum overseas.

Owner, Managing Director Exposure Marketing Projeni Pather is the owner and Managing Director of Exposure Marketing, Immediate Past Chair and Spokesperson for AAXO, Association of African Exhibition Organizers, and Spokesperson for the SA Events Council. Her 20-year career in exhibitions and marketing, active leadership, and engaging personality have positioned Projeni as the voice of the exhibition and events industry on national media channels. She is a dynamic leader driven by a passion for collaboration, communication, and innovation.

Rachel Thomas Neimeier, CEM, Regional Vice President, Map Your Show Rachel (Thomas) Neimeier, CEM has over a decade of experience in the events industry and has spent time on both the client and vendor sides. She began her career running operations for high-profile special events and then transitioned to planning large-scale domestic and international trade shows. Rachel is currently a Regional Vice President at Map Your Show where she is passionate about partnering with organizers to create impactful events as efficiently as possible. In her spare time, she volunteers as a business mentor for Empowered Women International. In addition to her volunteer efforts, Rachel loves spending time with her family and going on hikes around Harpers Ferry with her husband, daughter and their two standard poodles; and cheering on her alma mater, Penn State.

Randy Bauler, CEM, Corporate Relations & Exhibits Director, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses Randy Bauler, CEM is Corporate Relations & Exhibits Director for the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses in Aliso Viejo, California. Randy has worked for AACN for 22 years and is responsible for directing the sales and marketing of exhibit space and sponsorships for the healthcare association’s annual conference, called the National Teaching Institute & Critical Care Exposition®.

Rich Vallaster, CEM, DES, Director of Marketing, Events Management Solutions, Personify Rich Vallaster, CEM, DES serves as the Director of Marketing, Events Management Solutions & Trade Show Wonk at Personify. He has spent the bulk of his career in the events business, from large scale outdoor events to tradeshows and conferences. He currently consults and works with some of the largest tradeshows and event organizers in the country. He is an appointed member of the CEIR Research Council, TSNN Expo Chat moderator and is an active member of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) and Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA). Rich presently serves on several exhibitor advisory committees and speaks to organizers, exhibitors, and attendees regularly on industry related topics. He recently completed his Digital Event Strategist (DES) certification via PCMA. In his spare time, he enjoys all things Disney and traveling with his family.

Rick McConnell, Chief Executive Officer – Trifecta Collective Rick McConnell has a proven track record of acquiring, launching, and growing events. He is a team builder, innovator, idea generator, revenue driver, and partnership expert. From 2009-2014 he led Hanley Wood Exhibitions, growing the portfolio by 67% in four years. As President of Informa Markets North American from 2014-2020, he succeeded in growing annual revenues from $61 million to $425 million through acquisition, organic strategies and digital initiatives. He is the former Chairman of SISO (Society of Independent Show Organizers). He received the IAEE Pinnacle Award in 2020. The award recognizes an individual who, over 20 years, has furthered IAEE’s objectives of advancing exhibitions and events management through the promotion of education, the dissemination of knowledge and the introduction or development of innovative techniques, and who has been dedicated to the perpetuation of the highest ideals, trust and professionalism in this highly specialized field. Rick has an MBA from the University of Arkansas.

Custom Exhibitor Success Programs for B2B Trade Shows | Award-Winning Trainer, Consultant, Speaker Exhibitors WINH Our favorite award-winning trade show trainer, Robyn Davis, CPTD, CEM is known for her fresh perspective and process-driven approach to exhibitor success. She serves as the Chair of IAEE’s new National Membership Engagement and Belonging Committee and often speaks at industry events, like ExhibitorLive and Expo! Expo! Through her company, Exhibitors WINH, Robyn is typically contracted by Major American Trade Show Organizers to empower their exhibitors to “win” at their trade shows. Robyn has earned her degree in Aerospace Engineering, along with certifications in talent development (training) and exhibition management. To learn more, please visit ExhibitorsWINH.com or request to connect with Robyn on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/whenineedhelp).

Ryan Lovell, CEM-AP, Environmental Producer, Freeman Ryan’s career spans three decades with a background in exhibit design & fabrication, sales, creative design, and project management. From humble beginnings of summer jobs in graphics and carpentry shops, his experiences in custom exhibits lead him into the contracting side of the industry where he has spent the last fifteen years honing the craft of delivering exceptional events and success to show organizers across the country. In more recent years, Ryan has become increasingly active in IAEE circles including the local DFW Chapter Board of Directors, the Expo! Expo! Advisory Committee, IAEE Education Committee, and after earning his CEM in 2015, went on to join the CEM Faculty. He is proud to have had the opportunity to graduate from the inaugural CEM-AP Program and earn the new designation with four other industry colleagues in 2019. Ryan is very passionate about continuing education, teaching, mentoring, and sharing his experiences with the next generation of event industry professionals.

Sam Lippman, President, Lippman Connects Sam Lippman, President and Founder of Lippman Connects, has more than three decades of hands-on experience producing exhibitions and conventions. Prior to starting Lippman Connects, he produced international exhibitions (CES, GRAPH EXPO and PRINT) and conventions (National Computer Conference). Sam produces and facilitates Exhibition and Convention Executives Forum (ECEF), Attendee Acquisition Roundtable (AAR) Exhibit Sales Roundtable (ESR), Large Show Roundtable (LSR), Midsize Show Roundtable (MSR), and Digital Summit. Sam is also a sought-after speaker and moderator and is often quoted by the media. He is an active member of the International Association of Exhibition and Events (IAEE), Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA), and the Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO). Sam is a relentless champion of professional development through networking, information-sharing, and the pursuit of excellence. He was presented an IAEE Merit Award for his contributions.  

Sarah Griffin, CEM, Event Manager, Informa Markets Limited Sarah Griffin, CEM has more than 17 years of experience in the trade show and event industry. Having worked as an exhibitor and special event coordinator during and after college, followed by seven years working for GES, she joined Informa Markets in 2014. Since then, Sarah has held a variety of roles from managing the client services team in Boulder to being instrumental in the implementation of the inhouse CEM program for the Learning and Performance Team. She’s currently the overall event manager for CPHI North America, the premier pharma supply chain trade show and conference in the US. Sarah is an experienced people manager with a strong operational background and a passion for supporting others within the events industry.

Scott Stanton, CEM, CAE, Chief Financial Officer, IAEE Scott Stanton, CEM, CAE joined the IAEE staff in 1999, and shortly thereafter was promoted to Chief Financial Officer. His primary responsibilities include oversight of all finance-related functions, including reporting, budgeting and investments. He also oversees the information systems and human resources departments, and handles office management. Scott serves as Chief Financial Officer of the Center for Exhibition Industry Research. He received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting and Finance from Texas A&M University and an MBA in Management from Amberton University. Scott earned IAEE’s Certified in Exhibition Management designation in 2013. He is very active in his community, serving as a Boy Scout leader for 10 years. He enjoys scuba diving and woodworking and has recently learned to play the bagpipe.

Stephanie Houck, CEM, Senior Director of Exhibit Operations, SPARGO Inc. Stephanie Houck, CEM has over 20 years of exposition operations experience. She is currently the Senior Director, Exhibit Operations at SPARGO, Inc., focusing on healthcare meetings, which include the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the American Society of Hematology and the American Society of Anesthesiologists. As Senior Director of Exhibit Operations, Stephanie oversees the operations team and is responsible for programs such as the Sponsorship Program Development and Fulfillment, Product Theaters, Exhibitor Resource Center, Exhibitor Communication and Education Programs, which includes webinar offerings, newsletters and First Time Exhibitor program. Stephanie holds her CEM designation (Certified in Exhibition Management) and is an active member of HCEA and IAEE.

Tradeshow and Events Specialist Skyjack, Inc. Stephanie Rapko, CEM, CMP, brings nearly two decades of dynamic expertise to the trade show and events industry as the dedicated Tradeshow and Events Specialist for Skyjack Inc. Throughout her illustrious career, Stephanie has orchestrated an array of remarkable occasions, ranging from intimate executive board retreats to grand VIP customer appreciation events and expansive trade shows. Her extensive industry journey has seen her not only on the planning and execution side but also representing a selection of DMOs to the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, as well as the Travel and Tourism Industry. This dual perspective has endowed Stephanie with invaluable insights into the intricacies of event orchestration, enabling her to craft unforgettable experiences. Stephanie currently holds pivotal roles within the MPI Toronto Chapter, serving as the Director of Membership and volunteer for the MPI Foundation Canada Council. Come January 1st, she will be President-Elect for MPI Toronto. Beyond her MPI commitments, Stephanie is a proud member of the Advisory Council for The Exhibitor Advocate, further exemplifying her dedication to the industry and her drive to foster meaningful connections within it. As CEM faculty for IAEE, Stephanie provides industry experience and knowledge to event professionals towards obtaining their Certification in Exhibition Management. Stephanie is a seasoned professional who continues to shape the world of trade shows and events with her passion, experience, and unwavering dedication to excellence. When not fulfilling her volunteer obligations, you can find Stephanie at home snuggled up with her cats, TC and Bella along with a good book, or out exploring the world through her travel for work. LinkedIn

Steven Hacker, CAE, FASAE, CEM, Principal, Bravo Management Group Following a notable 40-year long career as CEO of several nonprofit associations, Steven Hacker is now the Principal of Bravo Management Group an organization that provides strategic, leadership, governance, marketing and event planning expertise to associations and trade show organizers around the world.

Steven Nushis, CPA, CGA, CEM, Director of Accounting Services, Exhibition Place, Enercare & Beanfield Centre Steven Nushis, CPA, CGA, CEM has worked in a few different industries giving him wide accounting and industry expertise. The industries include public accounting, scrap recycling, hydro and in 2007, he joined Exhibition Place which is in the trade and consumer show industry. As Director of Accounting Services, Steve has obtained his Certification in Exhibition Management (CEM) and is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA). Exhibition Place is 192 acres and has approximately 350 trade, consumer show, meeting and conventions on the grounds. Steve is also a lecturer for the Chartered Professional Accountants Association of Canada. In his free time, he enjoys to coach his boys in sports and volunteers on the finance committee of Spinal Cord Injury Ontario.

Supawan Teerarat, CEM, CED, CIS, DES, EMD, SEP, UCP, Senior Vice President, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) Supawan has been working with TCEB for over 10 years. Currently, she is heading seven departments with concentration on the development, enhancement and facilitation for the MICE industry together with bringing new innovation to TCEB and MICE. Before joining TCEB, she was in the exhibition and convention industries for over 25 years, as a Professional Exhibition Organiser with BITEC, Venue Management, QSNCC, Trade Representative of Messe Frankfurt and HKTDC. She also had three years as Thai hotel chain management with APRIME, working with Diethelm Travel and starting her career as full-time instructor at Assumption University and Jewelry exporting business before joining the MICE, travel and hospitality business.

Susan L. Schwartz, CEM, Managing Director, ConvExx Susan L. Schwartz, CEM, is Managing Director of ConvExx, an independent exhibition management firm. In addition to teaching CEM courses, she has also been a guest lecturer at UNLV, specializing in Exhibit Management education. Her IAEE career has included serving on the Southwest Chapter Board, the CEM Commission and Advanced CEM Program Committee. Susan has been awarded the IAEE Distinguished Service Award and Merit Award, the UNLV Tourism Person of the Year award, the Nevada Business Women’s Organization Distinguished Person Award and most recently, the 2020 Legend of the Industry Award from IAEE.

Talun Theng, CEM, CIS, CED, DES, General Manager, The Emlive Company Limited, ASM Global Venue Management to UOBLive Hall Talun is past President of Thai Exhibition Association, and past Managing Director of Royal Paragon Hall and TRUE ICON HALL. He has 40 years in the hospitality, hotel, exhibition and convention center industry and also experience as a speaker and special instructor for Rungsit University and Mahidol University. He was also a panelist for cooperation and institutions in Bangkok and MICE City. Talun has worked in New Zealand for Christchurch Convention Centre, Performing Arts of James Hay theater and Town Hall Auditorium and Westpac Arena from 1997-2000. He also worked in Sydney Australia as a Maître d’ of a fine dining restaurant in Western of Parramatta called Parkroyal Hotel from 1985-1990.

Żaneta Berus, CE, Founder and CEO, In2Win Business Consulting Żaneta Berus, CEM, is the founder and CEO of In2Win Business Consulting. She founded the company in 2011. She is also a Board Member of the Event Industry Association in Poland and MICE sector expert. A graduate of the University of Economics in Poznań, she graduated from the Faculty of Foreign Trade. Zaneta continued her education and in 1999 completed the Values Management and Applied Prioritizing business program at the Interclub Education Center in Chicago, a year later, the Go Smart Business business study and post-graduate management studies at Northwestern Business College in Chicago. In 2010, she completed her academic achievements with an Executive MBA at the Kozminski University in Warsaw. Żaneta held the prestigious position of the Consul of the Trade at the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Chicago and was responsible for promoting the Polish economy on the American market. For 16 years she was associated with the EXPO XXI in Warsaw. From 2006 in the Management Board of this company and the position of the Managing Director, and the last 6 years as the President of the Management Board. Until the end of April 2017, she also held the position of Executive Director at the Sapphire Group, which also includes EXPO XXI and Blue Business Media For the next two years she was the Managing Director of the largest exhibition facility in Poland – Ptak Warsaw Expo and was responsible for the coordination of activities and cooperation with external clients and international organizations. At the same time, since 2011, she runs In2Win consulting company and advises organizers and companies interested in the organization of events, in particular, fair ones. Żaneta also works actively in the Event Industry Association as a board member of this organization responsible for international cooperation, and by the end of July 2016, for over 6 years she was the Vice President of the Polish Chamber of Exhibition Industry, a member of the Association Conferences and Congresses in Poland and a member of UFI – the World Association trade fair. For her activities in favor of self-government and contribution to the promotion of Poland, Żaneta Berus received the Silver Cross of Merit, the second most important state decoration awarded by the President of the Republic of Poland. The event industry also appreciated her commitment. She was honored with the MP-12 title as the best venue manager in the Vendor-Venue category. Żaneta received another industry distinction, the title of “Personality of the Year” in the “Object Manager” category, as well as the badge “Distinguished for tourism” awarded by the Ministry of Sport and Tourism and title of Businesswoman of the year by the magazine, “Businesswoman and Life.”