Two meetings and incentive firms — Maritz and MGME — have added veteran industry executives to their teams.
Jim Russell has been named global head, business events solutions, at Maritz. Russell formerly held leadership positions with Freeman and Encore, and currently serves as chair of Meetings Professionals International’s board of directors.
"Jim is an exceptional leader whose innovative mindset and global perspective align perfectly with the culture and capabilities at Maritz," said David Peckinpaugh, the company's president and CEO. "This exciting addition to our team enables me to focus more fully on my CEO responsibilities as part of long-term succession planning, and I could not be more confident in his ability to help chart the next chapter of Business Events Solutions at Maritz. His leadership philosophy mirrors our commitment to developing talent, fostering collaboration and supporting the success of our people. Most importantly, Jim’s vision and experience will bring even more creative, high-impact solutions to our clients."
About his new role, Russell said, "Maritz has a unique ability to combine behavioral science, creativity and data to drive meaningful business outcomes. I’m excited to join a team that is not only shaping the future of business events but redefining the role those experiences play in helping organizations connect, perform and grow."
Joining MGME
Cindy D’Aoust, who becomes MGME's vice president of business strategy, will be responsible for guiding the company’s long-term direction and help identify market trends, expansion opportunities and operational improvements.
D’Aoust formerly served as president and CEO of the Cruise Lines International Association, and was COO at Meeting Professionals International.
"Having Cindy on the team was an obvious choice for us as we look to amplify our impact in the expanding global event market," said Carvie Gilikin, CEO of MGME. "We are confident that Cindy's appointment as our new vice president of business strategy will help to improve our present operations and bring additional value to our clients and, ultimately, their attendees.”
