People News: Moves at Reed Exhibitions, ASM Global, KBIS and More 

November 18, 2020

From presidents and board of directors to fine-cuisine-minded appointments in the Midwest, here’s the latest news about professionals in the trade show industry that you need to know.

Fernando Fischer was named president of Reed Exhibitions Americas on Nov. 11. Previously CEO of Reed Exhibitions Brazil for three years, he had joined Reed Exhibitions as U.S. president in January this year. In his new role, Fernando continues to directly lead the company's operation in the United States and adds Latin America under his regional management, where he has Claudio Della Nina, managing director of LATAM, in the local management of Brazil and Mexico operations.

On Nov. 4, ASM Global announced Bob Newman would assume the new role of chairman of ASM, transitioning from his current role as president and CEO. Newman, who was previously president of AEG Facilities, will continue to serve as CEO while a search is conducted for a successor CEO.

As of Nov. 16, Emerald has appointed Jason C. McGraw as vice president, responsible for oversight of Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) and CEDIA Expo. Additionally, Amy Hornby has been appointed to a newly created position of director of key accounts for the same two shows.

Last month, Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority’s board of directors selected Charles Harris to be the organization’s next president and CEO. Through direction of the board, Harris will be responsible for planning, coordinating and directing all activities associated with the operation of the RSCVA and its facilities. He began his new role Nov. 16, and most recently was chief marketing officer and executive vice president of public affairs for Visit Anaheim.

SEARCH Foundation, a 501(c)3 dedicated to assisting hospitality and event professionals in crisis, last month announced its new incoming board of directors, which includes:

  • Chairwoman Kate Patay
  • Vice Chairman Patrick McMichael
  • Treasurer Larry Green
  • Secretary David Lombardo
  • Immediate Past Chairman Rick Turner
  • Executive Advisor Joann Roth-Oseary
  • Directors: Nick Borelli, Judy Brillhart, Evan Carbotti, Mark Catuogno, Thuy Diep, Bobby Dutton, Jerry Hellman, Stephanie Jayko, Frank Puleo, Michele Polci, India Rhodes, Thomas Whelan Jr. and JC York

Interprefy, a Zurich-based provider of cloud-based interpretation services for meetings and events, has appointed Annett Polaszewski-Plath as its new CEO. She will take over from founder Kim Ludvigsen, who will transition out of the role and continue to serve as vice chairman of the board. Polaszewski-Plath most recently served as managing director at Eventbrite DACH.

The Wisconsin Center — a quasi-governmental body that operates Wisconsin Center, UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena and Miller High Life Theatre in downtown Milwaukee — has new leadership in the kitchen. Newly appointed General Manager Julio Henriquez and Executive Chef Christopher Pulling, both of Levy Restaurants, demonstrated the venue’s five-star hospitality through a private, socially distanced Oktoberfest-themed tasting event at Wisconsin Center on Oct. 27. 

Have more people news to share? Send announcements to lpsavas@tsnn.com.

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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