Signature Boston
May 6, 2024
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) announced today that Elaine Williams, CMP, CEM-AP, Senior Director of Sales and Event Services for the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center has joined its Board of Directors. Williams’s career in the convention and hospitality industries spans over 25 years, providing her with a solid operational foundation and extensive sales experience.
“Elaine’s industry experience and knowledge is highly valued by the IAEE Board,” said IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM. “Her longstanding commitment to enhancing our industry is admirable and we look forward to the contributions she will make as IAEE embraces the new technologies and practices currently transforming our industry.”
“As I humbly step into this new position, I look forward to embracing the opportunity to help shape experiences, ignite connections, drive positive change, and inspire innovation on a grand stage,” added Williams. “It is an honor to be part of something with such accomplished leaders and for a vital organization that is leading the way in shaping this industry.”
Williams began her journey at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center with ARAMARK in 1996, serving as a sales manager. Her talent and dedication propelled her through a series of progressively responsible roles, including director of sales, director of operations, and interim general manager.
Since joining the convention center’s sales team in 2007 as a national sales manager, Williams has consistently demonstrated her expertise in both sales and operations, quickly ascending to director of sales in 2013. In her current position, she leads a team dedicated to driving business growth and revenue generation and ensuring successful event planning and execution. Her role encompasses overseeing the entire spectrum of sales and event services, from initial planning to seamless execution.
To further solidify her industry knowledge, Williams has pursued continuous professional development. In 2005, she earned the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation from the Events Industry Council, signifying her expertise in the field. A decade later, she achieved her Certification in Exhibition Management® (CEM), a globally recognized credential for excellence in exhibition and event management. Demonstrating her commitment to industry leadership, Williams completed her CEM-AP (Advanced Professional) in May 2021.
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, also serving on the Board of Governors for the International Association of Venue Managers’ (IAVM) Senior Executive Symposium. She was nominated for the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Supplier of the Year award in 2022. Williams’s extensive experience, educational achievements, and commitment to industry service make her a respected leader in the field of convention and event management.
About IAEE
Trusted since 1928, IAEE provides quality and value to its members through leadership, service, education and strong relationships. IAEE is the largest association of the exhibitions and events industry in the world, with a membership of show organizers, exhibitors and exhibition suppliers. Organizers of more than 20,000 exhibitions and buyer-seller events around the world are members of IAEE, and the organization advocates and promotes the awareness of face-to-face exhibitions and events as the primary medium for business development and growth. IAEE provides relevant, timely and innovative education to its members and the industry. IAEE recognizes its strategic partners: 4imprint, Convention News Television (CNTV), eShow, Freeman, GES | onPeak, Grit Productions and Expositions, IMEX, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and Risk Strategies Company | Buttine Insurance. Visit www.iaee.com for more information.
Media Inquiries:
Mary Tucker
Sr. Communications & Content Manager
+1(972) 687-9226
mtucker@iaee.com
