DALLAS, 1 July 2024 – The International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) announced today changes to its staff that include the promotion of Lisa Buchanan to Senior Vice President of Operations to the executive leadership team and the addition of Stephanie Phillips as Director of Digital Engagement and Member Experiences.

“IAEE is undergoing exciting changes as we expand our membership and digital strategies,” noted IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM. “The knowledge and experience that Lisa and Stephanie bring to these initiatives will allow us to deliver the high quality and value that our members have come to expect and that we are continually committed to growing and improving.”

Buchanan joined IAEE in 2014 as Director of Membership and Chapter Engagement and was promoted to Vice President of Engagement and Digital Strategy in 2022. Prior to joining IAEE, she 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 exhibitions and events career with Meeting Professionals International (MPI), serving for eight years in various roles including Director of Global Chapter Relations and Member Services where she oversaw all membership and chapter functions for more than 50 chapters worldwide.

In her role as Senior Vice President of Operations, Buchanan will direct the general management of IAEE staff to ensure effective and timely accomplishment of all tasks and initiatives. She will also assume the helm of various departments including membership, chapter relations, digital strategy, public relations, marketing and communications, leading efforts towards growing IAEE membership and exploring new revenue streams.

“I am thrilled to embrace the challenges and opportunities of my new role, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by such a knowledgeable and supportive team,” said Buchanan. “Together, I am confident that we will achieve remarkable things and set new standards of excellence.”

With a strong background in association management, Phillips brings valuable experience from her previous position as the Manager of Marketing and Membership at the Disability Management Employer Coalition (DMEC). Phillips has more than 14 years of experience managing membership, marketing, volunteers, events, and programs for various associations. She has a passion for working with members and optimizing digital platforms. Phillips holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mass Communications and minored in History from Virginia Commonwealth University.

In her role as Director of Digital Engagement and Member Experiences, Phillips is responsible for the association’s digital and data tech stack and driving membership growth and retention strategies that align with the association’s strategic objectives. She is also responsible for the day-to-day management of member and customer engagement journeys.

“I’m excited to assume the role of Director of Digital Engagement and Member Experience, focusing on driving growth and enriching member journeys that align with our strategic objectives,” said Phillips. “I’m ready to embrace the opportunity to help shape IAEE’s future through innovative digital strategies and meaningful member connections.”

Learn more about IAEE’s leadership team here.