Flanagan begins her new role on 1 December 2023. Photo Credit: IAEE
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) has
appointed Marsha Flanagan as its new president and CEO. Flanagan will
lead IAEE into its next phase of service to the global exhibitions and
events industry while supporting the association’s underpinnings of
advocacy, sustainability, and DE&I initiatives. She begins her new
role on 1 December 2023.
Dennis Smith, 2023 chairperson of the IAEE Board of Directors. "Her
vision and strategic approach will ensure that IAEE remains a trusted
partner for our members by engaging in industry collaborations, and
delivering valuable resources, advocacy, and learning opportunities to
drive success in the exhibitions and events ecosystem."
Prior to joining the association, Flanagan served in key leadership
roles at prominent organisations in the industry, where she demonstrated
exceptional leadership and a track record of driving success. Marsha's
appointment follows an extensive search process.
“During this period of transition, it has been business as usual with
everyone on staff continuing to demonstrate a passion for the industry,
delivering exceptional programming and networking opportunities,” said
IAEE Interim CEO Cathy Breden.
Flanagan previously served as the senior VP of Events and Learning
Experiences at IAEE, where she was responsible for all events and
learning initiatives including the Certified in Exhibition Management
(CEM), Certified in Exhibition Management – Advanced Professional
(CEM-AP), and CEM Fellow (CEM-Fellow) designations.
Prior to joining IAEE, Flanagan was the director of Content Strategy
and Development at the Promotional Products Association International
(PPAI), where she was responsible for steering strategy and the
development and delivery of all PPAI professional development and
editorial offerings. She spent six years in the medical industry serving
in various roles overseeing operations, purchasing, revenue cycle
management, marketing and business development.
Flanagan began her career with Meeting Professionals International
(MPI) and spent 12 years in various roles including executive VP of
Professional Development where she oversaw operations, including all
strategic partnerships, the design and delivery of all professional
development offerings and meetings management. IAEE was formed in 1928
and has more than 20,000 members globally.