Karen Kotowski Steps Down From Events Industry Council
January 14, 2019
Karen Kotowski, who has led the Events Industry Council (EIC) for the past 10 years, has tendered her resignation as CEO.
With this change in leadership, EIC has initiated a search to identify a new CEO.
During her tenure, Karen Kotowski oversaw the growth of EIC’s Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) program and the completion of three studies on the Economic Significance of Meetings in the U.S.
In addition, she led the first-ever Global Economic Significance Study -- research that has provided indisputable proof of the economic impact of our industry and a platform for articulating the value of business events.
“Karen has dedicated herself to the events industry and provided ten years of leadership to our association through a rebranding, management transition and growth of our CMP programme,” said Tina Wehmeir, chair of the Events Industry Council board of directors.
She added, “During this time of transition, we plan to identify a new CEO who brings a global perspective and background to help in further broadening the reach of our organization and certification programme.”
This change in leadership comes at a time when the EIC is working on enhancing its value offerings, extending the CMP programme globally, expanding its educational programming and increasing its focus on enabling sustainable events.
Building on the recent momentum and rebranding, the board said it is focused on redefining EIC’s mission, vision and long-term strategic plan.
EIC will be seeking a leader who can inspire the council while implementing the organization’s vision -- a leader who brings a diverse global perspective and a proven track-record of business growth, collaboration and strategic vision.
To lead the search, the board has named a search committee consisting of an accomplished and diverse group of seven industry leaders chaired by Carina Bauer, CEO, IMEX Group.
In partnership with their management company, SmithBucklin, they have engaged Jim Zaniello of the search firm, Vetted Solutions, who will work collaboratively with Jonathan Morgan at London-based Saxton Bampfylde.
Partner Voices
Overview:
The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality.
In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way.
“We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.”
Amenities:
The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.
The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience
The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need.
Gold Key Members
The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events.
OCCC Events:
This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.
The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:
AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023
200,000 Attendees
$257 Million in Economic Impact
MEGACON 2023
160,000 Attendees
$205 Million in Economic Impact
Open Championship Series 2023
69,500 Attendees
$89 Million in Economic Impact
Sunshine Classic 2023
42,000 Attendees
$54 Million in Economic Impact
Premiere Orlando 2023
42,000 Attendees
$108 Million in Economic Impact
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