Brian Casey Named President, CEO of Center for Exhibition Industry Research

October 2, 2013

Thirty-year trade show industry veteran Brian Casey has been chosen by the Center for Exhibition Industry Research’s board of directors as the new president and CEO for the organization.

Casey was identified as the best candidate after an extensive search process that was initiated after long-time head of CEIR, Doug Ducate, announced he was stepping down from the role.

Casey’s new position will begin Dec. 1.

"I am very honored and excited to have been selected to lead CEIR moving forward,” Casey said.

He added, “Having been in the industry for more than 30 years, I have seen CEIR grow and become the essential source for providing thousands of professionals with the data and research that fuels our industry.”

Casey currently is vice president and general manager for the Cleveland Global Center for Health Innovation & Convention Center, which is set to open Oct. 8.

Casey also has served as president and CEO of the High Point Authority (producer of High Point Markets), owner of Next Generation Events Group, executive vice president at SmithBucklin and managing director of trade shows for the International Housewares Exposition.

The CEIR board and selection committee retained the services of Minnesota-based SearchWide, an executive recruiting company, to handle the search.

"The selection of Brian was a unanimous decision by the CEIR Search Committee and similarly endorsed by the CEIR Board,” said Greg Ortale, CEIR’s board chairman. “We have the utmost confidence and admiration in him based on his background which will uniquely benefit CEIR, and we look forward to working closely together on the strategic initiatives and research projects that have made CEIR the well-respected organization that it has become today.”

He added, “I am pleased to know that CEIR will be led by a professional with an exemplary background and credentials who understands the exhibition industry, and is committed to its future."

Besides his extensive work history, Casey has been involved on several industry boards, including CEIR’s and the International Association of Exhibitions and Events.

Casey is a past chairman of Major American Trade Show Organizers (MATSO) and past chairman of the IAEE Midwest Chapter.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.