The International Association of Exhibitions and Events announced that Marsha Flanagan, CEM, will take over as president and CEO, effective Dec. 1.
Flanagan, who has been with the organization for 11 years, replaces Cathy Breden, CMP-F, CAE, CEM, who stepped in as interim CEO in October after IAEE's longtime leader, David DuBois, left for a new position as president and CEO of the Exhibitor Group.
"Under Marsha's leadership, IAEE will continue to serve as the leading trade association for the global exhibitions and events industry," said Dennis Smith, vice president of business development for the Asian American Hotel Owners Association and 2023 Chairperson of the IAEE Board of Directors. "Her vision and strategic approach will ensure that IAEE remains a trusted partner for our members by engaging in industry collaborations, and delivering valuable resources, advocacy and learning opportunities to drive success in the exhibitions and events ecosystem."
In her new role, Flanagan is tasked with leading IAEE into its next phase of growth, while maintaining focus on the association's advocacy, sustainability and DE&I initiatives. Her most recent role as senior vice president of events and learning experience involved overseeing all of the association's event and learning initiatives, including the Certified in Exhibition Management, Certified in Exhibition Management–Advanced Professional and CEM Fellow designations.
Flanagan's experience also includes serving as VP of professional development for Meeting Professionals International, and director of content strategy and development for the Promotional Products Association International.
"IAEE plays a vital role in advancing the global exhibitions and events industry, and I am honored to take on the position of president and CEO," said Flanagan. "I am excited to work closely with the IAEE board of directors, staff, our members and other stakeholders to drive community engagement and growth for the organization."
