David DuBois to Retire From IAEE at the End of 2023

April 5, 2023

After 11 years as president and CEO of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE), David DuBois will retire effective Dec. 31, 2023.

DuBois will lead the association through its strategic growth initiatives in 2023 and continue to build on his legacy of advancing IAEE’s mission and member community.

“IAEE is a large and diverse global association that represents a vast ecosystem,” DuBois said. “I look forward to continuing to lead the exhibitions and events industry's trade association, and over the months ahead, my goal is for IAEE to continue delivering valuable programs to our members and stakeholders globally."

DuBois highlighted a few of his biggest accomplishments at IAEE during his tenure.

"I am most proud of having our industry and great staff be better and stronger than when I arrived eleven years ago, helping our association and industry make our way through the pandemic and helping us grow back to pre pandemic levels," he said.

He added, "I am very excited that our industry is gaining our great momentum again and will continue to be highly successfull for our entire ecosystem."

While he will be leaving his post at IAEE, DuBois said he looks forward to his next career opportunity in the industry.

The IAEE Board of Directors has retained SearchWide Global, a full-service executive search firm that specializes in C-level positions in the event, convention, travel, tourism, hospitality, trade association, venue management and experiential marketing industries. The search for IAEE’s new president and CEO will begin with a detailed needs assessment led by SearchWide Global and will aim to publish the official position overview in late June.

“We appreciate everything David has accomplished during his tenure at the association and are grateful for his leadership and service to IAEE members,” said IAEE Chairperson of the Board Dennis Smith, “The IAEE Board is following a well guided succession plan and committed to paving the direction forward with new leadership to position the association for future growth.”

DuBois, a longtime industry veteran, began his career with Sheraton Corporation in various sales positions and was most recently as president and CEO of the Fort Worth Convention and Visitors Bureau before joining IAEE.

Throughout his career, he has also served as president and CEO and senior vice president of the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA), COO of Meeting Professionals International (MPI), executive vice president of the MPI Foundation, board member of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), chairman of the board of directors for the Texas Society of Association Executives, board member and chairman of the Dallas-Fort Worth Tourism Council, board member of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce and chairman of the board of directors for the Events Industry Council (EIC). He also serves on the board of directors for the Meetings Mean Business Coalition and the U.S. Travel Association.

Don’t miss any event-related news: Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter HERE, listen to our latest podcast HERE and engage with us on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn!

Add new comment

Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.