Event and exhibition organizer Clarion Events has promoted Kelly Comboni to CEO of Clarion Connect, a new division focused on connection-driven, one-to-one formats, digital platforms, and community-building event experiences that was launched in November 2024. Most recently, Comboni had served as president of LeftField Media, Quartz Network, and Consero Events. 

Operating globally, with business units and events spanning North America, Europe, and beyond, Clarion Connect brings together brands that facilitate more than 60,000 business connections annually via its portfolio of more than 80 summits, forums, and networks. 

Reporting directly to Clarion Events Global CEO Lisa Hannant and Clarion Events North America Chairman Greg Topalian, Comboni is responsible for overseeing the division’s key brands, which include Quartz Network, Consero Events, Connect Events, Eaton Hall, and consumer events arm LeftField Media, and working closely with their leadership teams. 

What they are saying 

“Connections are at the heart of what makes Clarion’s events transformative,” Hannant said. “Kelly’s promotion to CEO of Clarion Connect recognizes her exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and passion for fostering collaboration.” 

She continued, “Her ability to build high-performing teams and deliver exceptional value has already made an indelible impact across the brands she leads. I am confident Kelly will elevate Clarion Connect to even greater heights, ensuring we remain at the forefront of connection-driven businesses.” 

Backstory 

In her previous role, Comboni played a pivotal role in bringing the division’s brands together under a unified strategy. According to Clarion officials, her leadership has not only fostered strong revenue growth, market expansion, and operational innovation, but has also helped position the division as an industry leader. 

“I’m incredibly excited to step into this role as CEO of Clarion Connect,” Comboni said. “At its core, this division is about creating opportunities for people and businesses to come together in ways that drive real impact—whether it’s through sparking innovation, solving challenges, or forming partnerships that last. As we continue to expand our global footprint and refine the way we connect communities, I’m eager to build on our success and deliver even more value for our customers and teams.” 

She added, “Clarion Connect is unique in how it combines technology, relationships, and expertise to foster meaningful connections. I’m honored to lead such a talented team and look forward to shaping the future of connection-driven business together.” 

Comboni joined Clarion Events in 2017, following its acquisition of LeftField Media, where she was a co-founder and served as general manager and CMO for more than three years.  

Looking ahead 

According to Clarion officials, her leadership will ensure Clarion Connect remains the global leader in one-to-one events and meaningful business connections. 

“Kelly has an extraordinary ability to identify opportunities and inspire teams to deliver beyond expectations,” Hannant said. “She embodies the vision and ambition required to lead Clarion Connect into the future. I’m excited to see her continue transforming how businesses connect and grow.” 

Clarion Events boasts a portfolio of 125 global events and media brands across a range of vertical markets. The company operates in more than 50 countries, including the U.S., the UK, Germany, and several others across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. 

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