Jun 20, 2012
The Face2Face Series is sponsored by MarketArt.
Talk to most trade show managers and executives and you might notice a common theme: they seem to have no idea what they’d be doing if they weren’t working in the trade show industry.
The same rings true for 23-year industry veteran Alan Sims, who like many trade show lifers, began working in and around events right out of school, realized it was a good fit and never looked back.
“Relationships are important to me and face-to-face interaction is important, so (the industry) suits my skill set well,” Sims said.
He… more
Apr 16, 2012
The Face2Face Series is sponsored by MarketArt.
While some people might anticipate big challenges with a sense of trepidation, David Audrain thinks they’re what keep life interesting. But then, this 19-year trade show veteran, who recently became president and CEO of Clarion Events North America, has never been one to shy away from daunting propositions. Like the time he had to learn everything he needed to know about being a show manager – in nine weeks.
“When I moved to the U.S., I ended up working for the Texas Restaurant Association, managing part of their membership… more
Mar 12, 2012
For nearly 20 years, Dorothy Belshaw has worked for George Little Management, most recently as vice president and show director of the New York International Gift Fair, but now she’s taken a new position as president of the International Market Centers’ Gift Division.
"I am very pleased to have a true industry leader and professional join our executive team. Dorothy brings the leadership and experience to accelerate the growth of our Gift+Home show in Las Vegas,” said Robert Maricich, CEO of International Market Centers.
He added, “As a recognized and proven… more
Feb 27, 2012
This year has been a busy one so far for association staffing and executive-level changes, with several appointments being announced.
National Association of Convenience Stores appointed Molly Hoyt its meetings coordinator. Prior to joining NACS, Hoyt worked at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City, where she served as a meetings concierge and eventually assistant banquet manager, supervising all banquet functions at the hotel.
Destination Marketing Association International has named Cindy Kong, CMP, as its director of meetings effective Feb. 22. Kong has more than 20 years of… more
Jan 04, 2012
1105 Media hired Daniel McKinnon as vice president of government events, which includes the annual flagship government technology FOSE show, which is on tap April 3-5 at the Walter E. Washington (D.C.) Convention Center.
“We are delighted to welcome Daniel,” said Neal Vitale, president and CEO of 1105 Media. “After an outstanding career with Messe Frankfurt, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our team.”
He added, “We look forward to his contributions as we expand our array of government-focused trade shows and conferences.”… more
Jan 04, 2012
Alan Liebensohn was promoted last month to executive director of the New York International Automobile Show from his position of business manager, a post that he held for seven years.
Prior to joining the auto show, Liebensohn was a consultant in the trade show and exposition industry for companies such as George Little Management, Biz Bash Media, COSEP and Curves for Women.
In addition, Liebensohn previously was the director of conferences and trade shows for the gaming industry’s premier international trade show & conference, the World Gaming Congress & Expo.… more
Jan 04, 2012
Matthew Rotchford, long-time sales and events manager for the Portland Expo Center, has been named facility director after a national industry search, according to Metro Visitor Venues, which oversees the center.
He replaces former Director Chris Bailey, who retired in September, after 17 years managing the regional venue.
Metro general manager of visitor venues Teri Dresler said the decision best supports the facility’s expansion into new markets.
“By far, Matthew demonstrated the perfect combination of drive, innovation, flexibility and financial stewardship for this… more
Partner Voices
Dallas already boasts 35,000 hotel rooms, award-winning global cuisine, and a walkable downtown. But we are just getting started.
Visit Dallas is thrilled to announce that the city of Dallas is doubling down with a massive new convention center and entertainment district. Featuring 800,000 square feet of exhibit area, 260,000 square feet of meeting rooms, and 170,000 square feet of ballroom. The center will connect business travelers with dining and shopping options in the popular Cedars District means more places to get down to business, and even more ways to unwind.
“Dallas is already a great meetings and conventions destination, with the accessibility of two major airports, affordable labor, and an outstanding hotel product,” said D. Bradley Kent, Visit Dallas senior vice president and chief sales officer. “The new center and Convention Center District will enhance Dallas’ competitive position and are exactly what our customers’ need and have been asking for."
What’s New – AT&T Discovery District
Located in the heart of Downtown Dallas, this new district on the AT&T corporate campus is tailor-made for groups of all sizes. It boasts a multi-sensory experience, including outdoor event space, the AT&T Theater, and multiple dining outlets including JAXON Beer Garden and The Exchange, a bustling food hall.
Hotels Coming Soon
Names like the JW Marriott (Downtown), lnterContinental Dallas (Uptown), and Hotel Swexan (Uptown) are adding luxury amenities and bountiful event spaces. The projects will debut in 2023 and beyond.
JW Marriott
This new, 15-story, 283-room hotel will open in the heart of the city’s downtown Arts District this year. The property features a 25,000-square-foot grand ballroom, as well as a spa, restaurant, lobby bar, fitness center, and a rooftop pool deck and bar.
InterContinental Dallas
Located in Cityplace Tower in Uptown, InterContinental Dallas will feature sweeping panoramic views of the Dallas skyline. Guests will enjoy spacious, high-end rooms and amenities, including more than 21,000 square feet of event space.
Hotel Swexan
Hotel Swexan, a new, 22-story luxury property, is rising in Uptown’s Harwood District and will make its mark on the Dallas skyline. Opening this year, it is a sculptural building with cantilevered upper floors, as well as a 75-foot rooftop infinity-edge swimming pool and a hidden underground lounge.