Leadership

Your Trusted Community.The Industry Voice.Knowledge & Learning.

The IAEE Board of Directors plays a critical role in setting the direction for the association, ensuring necessary resources are in place for carrying out the mission, values and vision. They establish IAEE policies and priorities based upon the mission; represent member needs; ensure the financial stability and growth of the association; and promote the broad exhibitions and events industry.

Past Board Chairs
Complete Staff Listing

IAEE Board of Directors

2026 Chairperson

Brian Pagel

Executive Vice President
Emerald X 

Brian Pagel currently serves as the Executive Vice President of Business Development and oversees the Residential and Commercial Connections portfolio at Emerald.  Brian began his career at Shore Varrone in 1998 and has worked in a variety of leadership positions with Bill Communications, VNU, Nielsen Expositions and Emerald.

Brian has produced nearly 100 events in his career, successfully repositioned several struggling properties and was a part of the deal team that acquired CEDIA Expo in 2017.  In 2013 he helped to champion an effort to co-locate the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) with the International Builders Show (IBS), creating Design and Construction Week. Brian holds a degree in Organizational Communications from the University of Kansas and is an active volunteer with both the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) and the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE).  He is also a frequent industry speaker, blogger and guest columnist.

Brian is originally from Littleton, Colorado, but currently lives and works in Alpharetta, Georgia.

Immediate Past Chairperson

Chuck Grouzard

Executive Vice President of Business Development, Creative and Design
GES

With 36 years of experience in the exhibitions industry, Chuck Grouzard is a seasoned leader and the Executive Vice President of Business Development, Creative and Design at GES. He leads the company’s business development team with a focus on strategic selling initiatives aimed at driving revenue growth, expanding market share, and cultivating meaningful partnerships with both existing and potential clients. Chuck’s deep expertise lies in consultative and strategic selling, proposal and presentation development as well as training and development, with a particular strength in analyzing industry and market trends to guide decision-making.

 Chuck is a recognized thought leader in the industry and has extensive experience in change management, leveraging his knowledge to navigate complex challenges and inspire innovation. His leadership extends beyond GES, serving as the current Chair of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) , and past Chair of the Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR). He is also a former President of both the Exhibitions Services Contractor Association (ESCA) and the Midwest Chapter of IAEE.

 In 2023, Chuck was honored as one of Connect Corporate’s “15 Over 50” award winners, recognizing his profound impact on the meetings and events industry. He is deeply passionate about mentoring and coaching the next generation of industry professionals, exemplifying his commitment to paying it forward and shaping the future of the industry. He is known as a visionary who leads the way with Passion, Grit, and Kindness.

Chairperson Elect

Michelle Edmonson, CEM

Vice President, Exhibitions
AMT – The Association for Manufacturing Technology

Michelle Edmonson, CEM is the Vice President of Exhibitions for AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology and leads the IMTS brand – which includes the Trade Show (International Manufacturing Technology Show) and its digital component (IMTS+). With over 30 years of experience in managing and overseeing large-scale events, Michelle has been instrumental in driving the success and growth of her organization. Her leadership and strategic vision have significantly enhanced AMT’s and IMTS’ reputation and expanded their reach in the industry. Michelle’s ability to foster strong relationships and work effectively with diverse teams has been a key factor in her success.

Michelle proudly serves on the Boards of Directors for IAEE (International Association of Expositions & Events), and she is an active member of the CABs for Choose Chicago, Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority, and Maritz.

When not working, she enjoys reading, baking and spending time with her family and friends.

Secretary/Treasurer

Emile K. Davis, CEM

Managing Director, Business Development
The American Institute of Architects (AIA)

Emile K. Davis is the Managing Director of Business Development at the American Institute of Architects (AIA). AIA is the largest design organization in the world and represents the interest of over 100,000 architects, designers, and the built environment, dedicated to designing and constructing an innovative, safe, and sustainable world.

In his role, Emile oversees all sales initiatives and relationship management with exhibitors, sponsors, advertisers, and corporate partners. Prior to joining AIA in 2023, he spent 26 years at the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), where he served as the Director of Exhibits & Sponsorships, leading sales, client experience, and operations for all SHRM events.

With over 25 years of experience, Emile excels in relationship management, strategic sales, competitive positioning, and organizing large events and tradeshows. He is a graduate of George Mason University with a degree in Marketing, holds a CEM from the International Association of Exhibitions & Events (IAEE), and chaired the IAEE Expo! Expo! Advisory Committee in 2023 and 2022. Emile received the Trade Show Manager of the Year (SMOTY) Award in 2019 and was featured in the 2016 Connect 40 Under 40 Next List.

Beyond his professional achievements, Emile, together with his wife Mattu, celebrates 20+ years of marriage and are proud parents to three lovely children. During his leisure time, he indulges in airplanes, reading, soccer, travel, and cherishing moments with his family.

Member at Large Director

Elaine Williams, CMP, CEM-AP

Chief Commerical Officer
New Orleans Ernest N Morial Convention Center

Elaine Williams serves as the Senior Director of Sales and Event Services at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. She began her journey at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center with ARAMARK in 1996, serving as a sales manager.

In 2005, she earned the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation from the Convention Industry Council. In 2015, she achieved her Certification in Exhibition Management (CEM), and in 2021, she completed her CEM-AP (Advanced Professional) from IAEE.

In 2018, Williams expanded her reach as a contributing author for Professional Sales and Selling, a Guide for the Hospitality Industry. She actively engages with the professional community, serving on the Board of Governors for the International Association of Venue Managers’ (IAVM) Senior Executive Symposium and on the board of directors for the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE). She was nominated for a Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Supplier of the Year award in 2022.

Director

Eric Blanc Sr, CMP, CEM

Deputy Director
Orange County Convention Center

Eric Blanc, Sr., CEM, CMP is the Orange County Convention Center’s (OCCC) Deputy Director of Sales, Marketing, Event Management and Exhibitor Services. With more than 33 years of experience in event management and convention center sales. Blanc oversees strategic planning, sales, and event operations of the OCCC.

Blanc previously served as the Director of Sales, Marketing, and Convention Services at the Tampa Convention Center. During his 15 years of his service, he also served as a Sales Manager, Event Services Supervisor and Senior Events Coordinator.

Blanc’s background also spans across various top organizations in the industry including The Freeman Companies and GES Expositions, where he was a National Sales Manager for both companies. Blanc graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business – Marketing and holds certificates from the IAVM Public Assembly Facility Management School, as well as the CEM (Certified Exhibitions Manager) and CMP (Certified Meeting Planner) certifications.

Director

Mark Bogdansky

Mark Bogdansky

Vice President, Tradeshows and Community Engagement
Auto Care Association

Mark Bogdansky is the Vice President, Tradeshows and Community Engagement for the Auto Care Association. Bogdansky oversees all tradeshows for the Auto Care Association, its segments, committees and managed associations, including the AAPEX and HDAW shows. His responsibilities include strategic planning, tradeshow management, partner and vender relationships, contract negotiation and on-site logistics.

Prior to joining the Auto Care Association in November 2016, Bogdansky worked on the conventions for the National Retail Federation and Heart Rhythm Society. Prior to that, Mark was a high school teacher and college basketball coach.

He is an active member of the International Association of Exhibition and Events, and currently serves as the Immediate Past Chair of the MATSO Council. He has also served on multiple industry advisory boards and committees and spoken at several industry events.

Raised in Boston, Bogdansky graduated from Yeshiva University in New York, with a bachelor of arts in mathematics and a minor in business. He lives with his son in Maryland.

Director

Mike Carlucci

Mike Carlucci

Chief Operating Officer
Clarion Events, North America

Since joining Clarion Events in 2014, Mike Carlucci has transformed North America’s sales, operations, and service functions as an instrumental leader in driving revenue for Clarion by focusing on sales enablement, building teams, and developing a distinctive and inclusive culture.

Carlucci serves as Chief Operating Officer, leading North America’s sales, operations, and service arm and driving the commercial vision for customer success, partnership, and scaling the sales functions for growth and profitability. In 2023, his role expanded to manage the key attendee team, focused on further developing insight and value driven programs. In addition, he plays a critical role in building quality industry partnerships by aligning stakeholders, needs, and expectations to drive revenue operations and service to deliver experiences seamlessly and consistently.

Through his unwavering dedication to enhancing the customer experience and innate ability to address customer needs, he fosters strong relationships within the business and across the industry to develop and deliver customer-centric strategies and processes that improve customer satisfaction, loyalty, and retention.

Prior to joining Clarion, Mike spent 13 years at Reed Exhibitions, advancing to Group Portfolio Director during his tenure, where he oversaw sales on a large portfolio of events, including Global Gaming Expo and The Vision Expos.

Mike attended Bentley University. He is married with two daughters and lives in Connecticut.

Director

Sonia Fong, MBA

Sonia Fong, MBA, CDME

Vice President of Sales & Marketing
MDM Hotel Group/MDM USA

Strategic sales & marketing leader with extensive experience in the hospitality industry.  Ms. Fong leads the sales and marketing efforts across all of MDM’s properties, which include the JW Marriott Marquis Miami, Hotel Beaux Arts an Autograph Collection, JW Marriott Miami, Miami Marriott Dadeland and the Courtyard Miami Dadeland Hotel.

Ms. Fong’s responsibilities include developing and implementing the sales and marketing plan, outlining specific sales goals & marketing objectives and priorities, overseeing the sales and marketing teams to achieve annual revenue goals and sales optimization. 

Prior to joining the MDM Hotel Group, she was Senior Vice President of Convention Development for Louisville Tourism and worked for the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) for 21 years serving in various sales positions including Vice President of Convention Sales & Services. 

Fong has her Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management and her MBA from Florida International University. She’s fluent in Spanish and conversational in Mandarin and Cantonese.

Director

Nicole Hallada

Senior Vice President, Exhibitions & Marketing
Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM)

Senior Vice President of Exhibitions & Marketing Nicole Hallada joined Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) predecessor CIMA (the Construction Industry Manufacturers Association) in 1997 as a Marketing Coordinator, rising to her current role in 2020. In between, Hallada served in numerous marketing and leadership roles within AEM, including twice as Show Manager of The Utility Expo (formerly ICUEE). Before joining AEM, Hallada served in communications and marketing roles at Aurora Health Care and Metropolitan Marketing Group.

As Senior Vice President of Exhibitions & Marketing, Hallada leads exhibition management, digital services, operations, strategy planning, tradeshow education and marketing, for all exhibitions.

Hallada has also lent her talents to several associations and organizations throughout her career, including the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) and Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) and is a past board member of Career Skills Expo and CEIR Industry Research Committee. She has also been a part of TEMPO Milwaukee, Destination Imagination, Project Lead the Way, NASA’s Space Race Competition, and the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), while occasionally coaching her daughters’ sports teams for Big Bend/Vernon (WI) Recreation.

Hallada holds a Bachelor’s Degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, a certificate in the Neuroscience of Exhibitions and Events from Madison College, and enjoys boating with her family on the “Floating Halladay.”

Director

Kapil Kher, CEM

Chief Information Officer (CIO)
U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)

Kapil Kher is the Chief Information Officer at the U.S. Green Building Council, where he leads technological innovations to promote sustainability and empower the global green building community. With over 20 years of Technology leadership experience, Kapil excels in aligning digital strategies with organizational goals, driving transformation, and fostering growth.

A visionary leader, Kapil made significant contributions to AVIXA, the producer of InfoComm, as Senior Vice President of Information Technology. During his tenure, he revolutionized event technology and enhanced digital experiences through strategic initiatives that fueled innovation, revenue growth, and inclusivity. His efforts in integrating AI into event planning and managing global events like Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) underscore his strategic acumen, commitment to excellence, and advocacy for diverse perspectives.

Prior to AVIXA, Kapil held numerous director-level roles in IT, consistently delivering operational efficiencies and spearheading global projects. His innovative solutions in database and web development have left a lasting impact across various organizations.

Kapil holds a Master of Science in Computer Engineering from the University of Maryland and is Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) and as a Project Management Professional (PMP).

For the past three years, Kapil has served as the Chair of the Technology Committee for the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE), reflecting his dedication to innovation, diversity, and professional growth within the industry. His passion for leveraging technology, AI, and generative AI positions him as a transformative figure, shaping the future of sustainable development and event technology on a global scale.

Director

Anytra Lowe, CEM

Anytra Lowe, CEM

EVP, Client Solutions
Freeman

Anytra D. Lowe began her career in the events industry in 1996.  Anytra joined Freeman in 2004 and has held several positions such as Senior National Account Manager, Assistant Director of Sales of Las Vegas, and Director, National Account Management.  Anytra was also responsible for overseeing many Association, Corporate, and Technology customer events while Vice President, Expositions of California.  Her concentrated experience in both sales and account management has consistently helped customers elevate the show planning experience.

Currently, as Executive Vice President, Client Solutions, Anytra strategizes with internal teams and customers on high-level logistics, creating and implementing project plans focused on retention, account management, a superior service.   She often takes a “no excuses” approach to account service and continuously develops our internal teams to align with customer and industry expectations.

Anytra joined the IAEE Board of Directors beginning in January 2022 and has extensively participated IAEE Chapter events as well as the Krakoff Leadership Institute and several task forces.  Anytra is based in Las Vegas, has two children, three dogs, a turtle, and is an avid supporter of the National Brain Tumor Society.

Director

Stacy McManus, CEM

Director, Corporate Relations
Society of Interventional Radiology

Stacy is the Director of Corporate Relations for the Society of Interventional Radiology. Stacy’s responsibilities include fostering and expanding corporate partnerships, oversight of exhibition and sponsorship programs, corporate fundraising for the SIR Foundation, and corporate sales strategy.

Director

Justin Moore, MBA, CEM

Director of Meetings & Events
BPAA

Justin Moore, CEM, is the Director of Meetings and Events at the Bowling Proprietors’ Association of America BPAA in Arlington, TX, where he leads a team responsible for managing a variety of events for BPAA, USBC, IBC Youth, Strike Ten Entertainment, and PWBA. With almost two decades of experience in event management, Justin has been with BPAA since 2015. Before joining BPAA, he spent 8+ year in live events working with local sports organizations.

 Justin holds an MBA from the University of Dallas, specializing in Marketing Management and Sports & Entertainment Management. He also earned his bachelor’s degree from Northwood University. In 2016, Justin became Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM).

 Outside of work, Justin enjoys spending with his wife, Lauren (who’s also in the industry), and their three daughters. He’s also passionate about coaching and playing soccer and loves listening to Texas Country music.

Director

Julia Slocombe, CTA

Senior Vice President
Smart City Networks

Julia Slocombe serves as the Senior Vice President of Operations & Industry Relations for Smart City Networks, where she oversees operations at convention centers across the western United States. With more than two decades at Smart City, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership in technology and telecommunications operations, aligning client and industry relationships, identifying future sales opportunities, and driving impactful Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Ms. Slocombe has played a pivotal role in securing major contract renewals at prominent convention centers, including agreements for Distributed Antennae Systems (DAS) that have advanced connectivity and communications capabilities throughout the venues she supports.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Ms. Slocombe is deeply engaged in community and industry leadership. She serves on the Board of Trustees for United States International University–Africa and previously served on the Neighborhood House Association San Diego Board of Directors. Her active industry affiliations include IAEE, IAVM, and PCMA, where she has held leadership positions such as chair of IAEE’s Women’s Leadership Forum and IAVM’s Diversity and Inclusive Leadership Committee, as well as serving on the Events Industry Council’s Equity Task Force. Ms. Slocombe earned a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Nutrition and Business Management–Economics from the State University of New York, Oneonta, and a Certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from the University of South Florida’s Muma College of Business. She resides in California, where she enjoys gardening and spending time outdoors.

Director

Jess Tyler, CEM

Vice President and Market Leader
Questex

A proven leader in events and publishing, Tyler heads the strategic direction and execution behind Questex’s wellness events and publications, including the new Be+Well | Beauty and Wellness Shows, the fusion of two iconic industry brands – The International Beauty Show (IBS) and International Esthetics, Cosmetics & Spa Conference (IECSC). The portfolio also features 1:1 meetings events, Sibec and Spatec, as well as renowned publications American Spa and American Salon and industry leading organization, the Spa Industry Association (SIA).

Prior to joining Questex, Tyler led MJBiz’s conferences and tradeshows, including oversight of sales, conference content, show registration marketing, event operations, and customer service. MJBiz was acquired by Emerald X, LLC in January 2022.

Under her leadership, MJBizCon joined Trade Show Executive’s Gold 100 list at number #72 in 2019, winning Grand Awards for both The Fastest-Growing Gold 100 Show in Net Square Feet (By Percentage of Growth) and The Fastest-Growing Gold 100 Show (by Blended Growth), before rising to #24 in 2021.

Prior to joining MJBiz in 2018, Jess was Vice President at Access Intelligence LLC (AI) where she led teams in events and publishing in both the healthcare and media divisions. In her tenure at AI, she held various other roles including group show director, publisher, director of event operations and conference content manager where she played key roles in the success of the largest events in the portfolio, including the SATELLITE show, as well as various launch events and media/event acquisitions. While she was show director of the OR Manager Conference, the event received numerous Trade Show Executive Fastest 50 awards from 2014-2018. She came to Access Intelligence from the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) where she was meeting coordinator.

Tyler began her career in the events space working for Experient as a registration specialist where she contributed to some of the most influential tradeshows in the industry, including the Consumer Electronics Show (CES).

She is a proud member of the International Association of Exhibition & Events (IAEE) holding her Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) designation since 2013. Within the association she has served on the Major American Trade Show Organizers (MATSO) Council, representing tradeshows over 200,000 nsf, and the IAEE Awards Committee recognizing top professionals and achievements in the industry. She currently serves on the IAEE Board of Directors.

Additionally, Tyler is a member of the Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO) where she served as Leadership Conference Program Co-Chair (2022) and participated in the Marketing Special Interest Group. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and French from the University of Tennessee – Knoxville and currently resides in Denver, Colorado.

Director

Necoya Tyson CEM-AP, CCEP, CGMP, CWP

Owner & CEO
Lightsey Event Solutions (LES), Convention and Tradeshow Management

Necoya Tyson, CEM-AP, CCEP, CGMP, CWP is the visionary entrepreneur and driving force behind Lightsey Event Solutions (LES), a leading conference and tradeshow 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 tradeshow logistics, strategic planning, and client relationship management. With a career spanning almost 20 years in the tradeshow 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 tradeshow 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 exhibition manager-advanced professional (CEM-AP) and certified government meetings professional (CGMP).

Legal Counsel

Paula Cozzi Goedert

Paula Cozzi Goedert

Attorney
Barnes & Thornberg LLC

Chair of the firm’s Associations and Foundations group, Paula Goedert represents nonprofit organizations, including professional societies, trade associations, public charities and private foundations. Paula offers a depth of experience in guiding nonprofits through the challenges they face, and appreciates the opportunity to help make a difference.

Ex-Officio Members

Representing Chapters Leaders Council

Russell J. Callahan, CEM

President of National Operations
Quest Events

I am a senior-level operations executive with proven experience taking companies to the next level and creating company cultures that allow for scalable growth and success across all organization levels. I have expertise in managing large, diverse groups of talented creatives and operations professionals, creating standard operating procedures, and balancing the need for consistency across an organization with the entrepreneurial spirit that drives a fast-growing company. I have a track record in organizational planning to improve quality while challenging the organization’s successful departments. I have a deeply held belief that training and communication are the foundation of a company, and well-communicated expectations and accountability are the driving factors for continued success. I take joy in mentorship and motivate individuals to take the next step in their careers by helping them make a difference in the bottom line through sales, operations, and service.

Representing IAEE China Council

Daben Mao

Daben Mao

Deputy General Manager
China Merchants Exhibition Management Co., Ltd
Executive Deputy General Manager
Shenzhen Zhaohua Int’l Exhibition Operation Co., Ltd

Graduated from California State University, East Bay with an MBA degree, Mr. Mao Daben worked at many of the world leading organizations in exhibition industry such as the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, China International Exhibition Center Group, Jingmu International Exhibition Co, Ltd., Messe Muenchen (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. and VNU Exhibitions Asia Ltd., and managed many influential exhibition projects during his more than 30 years of working experience. He has unique insights and rich experience in project planning, operation and management. He initiated or introduced well-known exhibition training programs CEM and EMD into China and also serves as visiting professor at College of International Business, Shanghai International Studies University, and School of Tourism Management, Sun Yat-Sen University, contributing a lot to China’s exhibition talent training and exhibition education. Mr. Mao joined Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center (ShenzhenWorld) since Jan. 2017 as Executive Deputy General Manager and has been playing an indispensable and critical role in making the venue one of the best exhibition complex in China.

Representing the IAEE MATSO Council

Lisa Malikow

Senior Vice President, Restaurant Show
Informa Connect

Lisa Malikow is the Senior Vice President, Restaurant Show, Informa Connect and has over 23 years in exhibitions management experience.

In this role she is responsible for the strategic and operational management of The National Restaurant Association Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show® is the largest annual gathering of restaurants, foodservice, and lodging professionals in the world, from all 50 states and 110+ countries each May to Chicago, Illinois. Lisa joined the Show in October 2008 as Show Manager of the International Wine, Spirits and Beer Event focused on the adult beverage segment in foodservice. Currently, Lisa oversees a variety of critical areas for the Show, including event operations, special events, education programming, year-round digital strategies, and budget management.

Prior to the Restaurant Show, Lisa began her career at SmithBucklin Corporation, primarily focused on tradeshows in the technology and business-trade sectors.

Lisa is a former Chairperson of the Midwestern Chapter of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events and is currently chairperson for the Major American Trade Show Organizers (MATSO) council.

Lisa is a graduate of DePauw University with a B.A. in Communications Arts & Sciences.

Representing the Past Chairpersons’ Advisory Group

Carrie Ferenac

Co-Founder & President
CNTV

Carrie Ferenac co-founded Convention News Television (CNTV) in 2007 with her business partner, Marcelo Zolessi, after identifying a growing need for high-quality digital storytelling and live production in the exhibitions and events industry. Today, CNTV is widely regarded as the gold standard for event videos. The company produces onsite studios, remote content, daily coverage, and brand storytelling for associations and for-profit organizers around the country.  The video content engages audiences while generating new revenue streams through advertisements and sponsorships.

CNTV partners with the industry’s most influential organizations—including IAEE, PCMA, SISO, TSNN, ASAE, ECA, ECEF, and Trade Show Executive—to deliver live coverage and video content throughout the year. CNTV’s Capitol Hill Highlights has also become a trusted format for organizations looking to elevate their advocacy efforts.

Before launching CNTV, Carrie spent eleven years at WESH-TV, the NBC affiliate in Orlando, building a deep foundation in broadcast journalism, storytelling, and newsroom management. She brings this approach to the meetings industry, helping event leaders communicate with clarity, impact, and authenticity.

Carrie is not only a respected business owner but also a dedicated industry leader and passionate advocate. She recently served as Chair of both the IAEE and CEIR Boards of Directors, helping shepherd IAEE through its CEO search and supporting research initiatives that shape the future of exhibitions. She has been a driving force behind advocacy efforts such as Exhibitions Day and the Exhibitions Mean Business campaign and remains a prominent voice for workforce development, innovation, and the continued importance of face-to-face events—even as AI transforms the business events landscape.

A sought-after speaker and longtime host of major industry broadcasts, Carrie combines her broadcast expertise with her commitment to lifting the industry through storytelling. She has been a finalist for PCMA’s Supplier of the Year (2017, 2019 & 2025), a mentor to rising leaders, and a champion for collaboration and community across the business events ecosystem.

IAEE Executive Leadership Team

Marsha Flanagan, M. Ed., CEM

President & CEO
IAEE

Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM is the President and CEO of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE). As IAEE’s president, Flanagan is responsible for the management of IAEE’s full-time professional staff, producing the annual business operating plan and budget, overseeing the support of all meetings of governance units, leading business development, directing fund raising efforts, advocating for the industry and the organization’s members, providing organizational leadership and strategic counsel to the board. Also, she serves as the association’s representative with industry coalitions, partner organizations and strategic alliances.

Prior to joining PPAI, Flanagan was the Director of Content Strategy and Development at the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI), where she was responsible for steering strategy and the development and delivery of all PPAI professional development and editorial offerings.

Flanagan spent 6 years in the medical industry serving in various roles overseeing operations, purchasing, revenue cycle management, marketing and business development.

Flanagan began her career with Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and spent 12 years in various roles including Executive Vice President of Professional Development where she oversaw operations, including all strategic partnerships, the design and delivery of all professional development offerings and meetings management.

She was named one of the 25 Most Influential People in the Meetings Industry by Successful Meetings in 2017 and named to BizBash’s Inaugural Top 500 in the Events Industry in 2018 and 2019. In 2021, she was listed in Meetings Today as a 2021 Trendsetter. In 2021, she obtained her GBAC Trained Technician Certificate of Completion from the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), a division of ISSA.

Flanagan received her bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University and her master’s in education from the University of Arkansas specializing in Meeting, Tourism and Recreation Management. She obtained her Certified in Exhibition Management designation in 2021.

Flanagan is a 5th generation Texan, loves sports and the outdoors and spending time with family.

Lisa Buchanan, CEM

Senior Vice President of Operations
IAEE

Lisa Buchanan is IAEE’s Senior Vice President of Operations where she directs the general management of IAEE staff and is responsible for the association’s various departments including membership, chapter relations, digital strategy, marketing and communications, public relations, leading efforts towards growing IAEE membership and exploring new revenue streams. Previously she held the role of Vice President, Engagement and Digital Strategy and was formerly the Director of Membership and Chapter Engagement at the International Association for Exhibitions and Events (IAEE), where she was responsible for all membership and chapter initiatives across the globe. She works with the various chapter boards and committees to identify member needs and membership products and services.

Prior to joining IAEE, Buchanan spent 10 years in the medical and dental industry serving in various roles overseeing operations, purchasing, revenue cycle management, marketing, and business development. 

Buchanan began her career with Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and spent 8 years in various roles including Director of Global Chapter Relations and Member Services where she oversaw all membership and chapter functions for over 50 chapters worldwide.

 

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. Mr. Stanton also serves as Chief Financial Officer of the Center for Exhibition Industry Research.

He received Bachelors of Business Administration degrees in both Accounting and Finance from Texas A&M University and an MBA in Management from Amberton University. Mr. Stanton earned IAEE’s Certified in Exhibition Management designation in 2013, and the Certified Association Executive in 2017. He is very active in his community, serving as a Boy Scout leader for 10 years. He enjoys scuba diving, woodworking and is a novice bagpiper.