4 DAYS AGO

Navigating New Zealand's B2B & B2C Events Industry with XPO Exhibitions Managing Director Brent Spillane

In episode 74 of Trade Show Talk, Host Danica Tormohlen explores the New Zealand exhibition industry with Brent Spillane, Managing Director of XPO Exhibitions, the country's largest trade and consumer show organizer. Spillane is a true visionary in the exhibitions industry, with more than 15 years of experience at the helm of XPO, where he has been instrumental in shaping how industries connect, trade, and thrive through live experiences across the Asia-Pacific region. After a successful corporate career at Allianz Australia, where he rose to General Manager of Allianz Finance, Spillane and his family acquired six trade shows in 2010 when dmg World Media exited New Zealand. Since then, he has carefully navigated XPO through challenges, including the pandemic, and even led a landmark High Court battle to preserve New Zealand's largest exhibition venue, Auckland Showgrounds, from being converted into a film studio. Under Spillane's leadership, XPO Exhibitions has grown into a highly diversified business, delivering 19 of New Zealand's largest B2B and B2C events across industries like construction, architecture, manufacturing, food production, workplace safety, marine, hospitality, and more. Most recently, XPO announced a joint venture with Hannover Fairs Australia to launch Logistics Automation New Zealand, powered by CeMAT, in November. In this month's advocacy segment, Tommy Goodwin, President and CEO of the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance provides an in-depth overview of what attendees can expect at this year's Legislative Action Day. Get prepared for a day of industry lobbying on Capitol Hill on May 28, 2026 in Washington, DC. Register for Legislative Action Day for free here. Get tips, insights and first-hand accounts from 10 key participants at last year's Legislative Action Day. Listen to Trade Show Talk Episode 62 On Air at Legislative Action Day 2025. Key Topics in this episode: Brent Spillane's career transition from finance to exhibitions and the impact of New Zealand's unique market The strategic growth of XPO Exhibitions through acquisitions, joint ventures, and diversification The importance of in-house event technology stacks and data control for ROI and efficiency How his personal legal battle preserved one of New Zealand's key trade fair grounds Innovative uses of AI and automation to boost visitor engagement and operational efficiency Synergies between B2B and B2C events and the ecosystem approach Insights into cross-sector growth, especially in food manufacturing, logistics, and marine Strategic partnership with Hannover Fairs Australia and implications for global-local collaborations Brent's leadership inspiration, personal interests, and the future outlook of the industry Lessons learned from industry advocacy and the upcoming U.S. Capitol Hill lobbying efforts Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome and episode overview: Brent Spillane's role in transforming NZ exhibitions 00:47 - Introduction of XPO's growth, industries served, and recent initiatives 01:46 - Brent's journey from corporate finance to leading NZ's largest exhibition company 07:15 - Growth models: acquisitions, organic expansion, and joint ventures 08:18 - Celebrating one show's 70th anniversary and its significance to NZ's marine sector 10:11 - Local market overview and cross-sector opportunities in New Zealand 12:10 - The legal battle to save Auckland's major venue and its industry impact 17:34 - Timeline and lessons from the court case safeguarding NZ's largest venue 20:17 - The integration of B2B and B2C events and ecosystem benefits 22:05 - Synergies in the food industry: from manufacturing to retail and hospitality 25:53 - Building and leveraging the in-house event tech stack for ROI and data ownership 31:07 - Embracing artificial intelligence: AI-driven visitor engagement and outreach 34:29 - The use of outbound AI calls and automation for lead generation and database enrichment 37:33 - Results and lessons from AI application in event promotion 39:56 - The recent joint venture with Hanover Fairs Australia and international collaboration 45:23 - Brent's most memorable recent event and the story behind NZ's Food Show 48:20 - Influencers and mentors: industry leaders who inspire Brent 50:48 - Personal hobbies: sailing, fishing, outdoor sports, and family life 51:30 - Personal attributes: Brent's drive and leadership style 52:27 - Team size and office culture at Expo 53:05 - The importance of face-to-face interaction and office environment 55:06 - Travel tips: hydration and electrolytes for long journeys 66:12 - Preparing for Legislative Action Day: advocacy strategies and webinars 66:43 - Capitol Hill experience: events, meetings, and the importance of advocacy 69:01 - Invitation to join the upcoming Legislative Action Day in Washington, DC 69:34 - Closing remarks and upcoming episodes

1hr 10min

1 APR

The Rebranding Journey: From GDC to GDC Festival of Gaming with Informa's Will Wise

In episode 73 of Trade Show Talk, host Danica Tormohlen explores the transformative GDC Festival of Gaming 2026, highlighting innovative event strategies, sponsorship activations, and industry insights with Will Wise, Vice President of Sales/Partnerships for the Gaming Vertical at Informa Festivals. Discover how the rebranding, global community, and creative activations are shaping the future of gaming events. In this month's advocacy segment, Tommy Goodwin, President and CEO of the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance provides an in-depth update on industry advocacy, government shutdown impacts, and upcoming legislative initiatives affecting trade shows and events. Register for Legislative Action Day for free here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Trade Show Talk Podcast 02:10 Overview of GDC Festival of Gaming 2026 04:35 Rebranding GDC: A New Era Begins 09:20 Building a Global Community in Gaming 10:16 Media and Digital Platforms Supporting Engagement 12:04 The Importance of a Strong Brand 14:19 Innovative Sponsorships and Activations 19:06 Utilizing Multiple Venues for a Festival Experience 22:44 Sponsored Sessions: A Key Component of GDC 24:50 Creating Memorable Experiences: Concerts and Awards 27:59 Expanding Audience Ecosystem for Success 29:26 Shifting from Exhibitors to Partners 30:49 Evolving Partnerships in the Event Industry 31:43 The Role of Customer Success Teams 32:35 Measuring Sponsorship Success 34:20 International Participation and Feedback 36:40 Innovating for Future Events 38:40 Success Stories from the Event 39:59 Lessons Learned for Future Events 42:17 Year-Round Engagement Strategies 43:49 Personal Insights and Hobbies 46:54 Looking Ahead to Future Events 47:18 Advocacy Update with Tommy Goodwin 50:00 Government Shutdown Impacts on the Industry 52:17 Legislative Action and Industry Advocacy 55:32 Preparing for Legislative Action Day Context This March, the GDC Festival of Gaming took over San Francisco, bringing together attendees from over 85 countries, featuring more than 20,000 attendees, 1100 speakers, 700+ cross-disciplinary sessions, and over 300 brand partners. The event wasn't just a conference—it was a celebration of creativity, technology, and connection. From vibrant activations in the Festival Hall to city-wide celebrations like the Opening Night at Oracle Park and the Developer's Concert, this year's GDC truly redefined what a gaming event could be. One of the standout moments was GDC Diamond Partner AWS' activation at CityView at Metreon, which buzzed with agentic AI demos, game streaming showcases, and the inspiring AWS Women in Games event, where industry leaders shared their perspectives on innovation and inclusion. The Festival also introduced new networking opportunities like GamePlan and GDC Encounters, fostering thousands of meaningful connections between attendees and sponsors. And let's not forget the major announcements that made headlines—Microsoft's Project Helix, Google DeepMind's Genie 3, and Valve's Steam Machine Verified program, all of which positioned GDC as a platform for breaking industry news. Key Takeaways The rebranding of GDC to the GDC Festival of Gaming reflects industry growth and a focus on community. Will Wise's consultative approach has transformed partnerships into collaborative experiences. Innovative sponsorship activations have enriched attendee engagement and showcased the latest in gaming technology. Resources Informa Festivals Division GDC Festival of Gaming 2026 GameDeveloper.com GDC Vault Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance Trade Show News Network Connect with our guests on LinkedIn Will Wise Tommy Goodwin Danica Tormohlen Guest Bio: Will Wise Will Wise is the head of event & media partnerships, business development, growth strategies, sponsorships & activations, content marketing programs, customer success, revenue operations, and delegate relations teams for Informa Festivals' GDC Festival of Gaming, Game Developer (media) and GDC Vault (digital content library). Previously Will was Group VP for the Security, Gaming & Transportation events portfolio at RX Global, Managing Director of the IoT Group at Penton Media, and Senior VP of Sales at UBM Tech for Enterprise IT, Cloud Computing, and Engineering events. Guest Bio: Tommy Goodwin Tommy Goodwin is President & CEO for the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA), the advocacy association for the business events industry. In this role, he leads ECA's work on behalf of the interconnected ecosystem of exhibitors, event and meeting organizers, suppliers, venues, and destinations that comprise the global business events landscape. Prior to joining ECA, Tommy spent more than 20 years working for several globally recognized associations and corporations, including Oracle, AARP, and the Project Management Institute. Podcast Host: Danica Tormohlen An award-winning journalist who has covered the trade show industry since 1994, Danica Tormohlen is VP of Group Content, Meetings, Sports, Travel for Informa Connect. In her role, she oversees content for Trade Show News Network, BizBash and Connect's portfolio of in-person events. These leading media brands publish websites, newsletters, social media channels, video, podcasts and online and in-person programming for the trade show, corporate event, association meeting, experiential marketing and exhibition industries. Tormohlen currently serves as immediate past president of the Women in Exhibitions Network North America chapter. She has been a speaker and moderator at major industry events, including the TSNN Awards, IMEX, IAEE, SISO, UFI, ESCA, DI and Large Show Roundtable — to name a few.

1hr 1min

2 MAR

At the Helm: dmg events growth playbook with CEO Geoff Dickinson

Episode 72: At the Helm: dmg events growth playbook with CEO Geoff Dickinson In this episode of Trade Show Talk, host Danica Tormohlen engages in a comprehensive conversation with Geoff Dickinson, CEO of dmg events. They discuss Jeff's unique journey into the events industry, the impressive growth of dmg events post-COVID, and the importance of investing in the local markets where the company produces exhibitions. Geoff shares insights on creating content-rich events that engage diverse audiences, the significance of partnerships in the industry, and his leadership approach in managing a global team. The conversation also touches on future predictions for the events industry and Geoff's personal hobbies that help him recharge. In this month's advocacy segment, Tommy Goodwin, Executive Vice President of the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance shares updates on tariffs and regulatory clarity, an early preview of the Legislative Action Day (register for free here), and reflections on the recent announcements that Gary Shapiro and Rip Rippetoe will be retiring in 2026. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction: Overview of the episode and guest introductions 02:15 – Geoff Dickinson on Revenue and Growth: Insights into DMG Events' post-COVID recovery 05:07 - Career Journey: Geoff's path from law to leading a global events company 09:16 - Content and Audience Strategy: How DMG doubled revenue through innovation 18:35 - Market Specialization: Deep understanding and sector focus 22:45 - International Expansion: Launching new markets and partnerships 30:15 - Leadership Philosophy: Trust and team management in a global portfolio 46:11 - Transition to Tommy Goodwin: Advocacy and policy updates 49:20 - Legislative Action Day: High participation and impact on Capitol Hill 53:42 - Industry Leadership: Reflections on legacy and collaboration 58:00 - Closing Thoughts: Future outlook and upcoming industry events Key Takeaways Geoff Dickinson's journey into the events industry was unconventional, starting from a law degree to becoming a CEO. DMG Events achieved significant growth post-COVID, focusing on quality over quantity. Content-rich events are essential for engaging diverse audiences and ensuring their return on investment. Partnerships with other organizations enhance the reach and impact of events. Leadership in a global context requires trust in a competent team. Investing in local markets is crucial for successful event execution. The importance of understanding audience segmentation for event planning. Running serves as a mental and physical recharge for Geoff Dickinson. Collaboration among industry leaders has increased post-COVID, fostering a supportive environment. Key Topics: Jeff Dickinson's strategic vision for DMG Events and post-COVID growth Tommy Goodwin's advocacy efforts and policy updates impacting the industry The importance of content richness and market specialization Building trusted teams and leadership through collaboration Industry partnerships and international expansion strategies Legislative Action Day and the role of industry advocacy Connect with Our Guests: Jeff Dickinson on LinkedIn Tommy Goodwin on LinkedIn

56 min

1 FEB

Ep. 71: SXSW Unplugged with Chief Commercial Officer Peter Lewis

58 min

5 JAN

Sustainability in Trade Shows with Informa's Head of Sustainability Ben Wielgus

In Episode 70 of Trade Show Talk, Host Danica Tormohlen speaks with Ben Welgus, Head of Sustainability at Informa, about the evolving landscape of sustainability in the trade show industry. They discuss the successes and challenges faced in 2025, the launch of the Better Stands initiative, and the goals for 2026, including the importance of achieving net zero emissions. The conversation highlights the significance of sustainability in enhancing business value and the need for industry-wide collaboration to create a positive impact. In our monthly advocacy update, we talk with Tommy Goodwin, Executive VP for the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance. They discuss ECA's policy agenda for 2026, including an update on tariffs, international travel and the new Global Policy Forum planned for May in Washington, D.C. Key Takeaways The Faster Forward program aims for zero carbon and zero waste. Better Stands initiative promotes reusable exhibition stands. Exhibitors, particularly those outside of the U.S.. are motivated by recognition in sustainability efforts. More than 1,000 exhibitors in Europe have been recognized by the Better Stands initiative. Net zero goals require significant carbon emission reductions. Sustainability is becoming embedded in business practices. Informa has reduced carbon emission by 80% in the last decade. Natural Products Expo West, winner of the TSNN Sustainability Award in December 2025, exemplifies comprehensive sustainability efforts. Investing in renewable energy is crucial for sustainability. Tariffs and international travel remain key policy issues for ECA in 2026. New Global Policy Forum launches May 29, 2026, in Washington, D.C. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sustainability in Trade Shows 04:06 Reflecting on 2025: Wins and Challenges 05:55 Unpacking the Faster Forward Program 08:00 Looking Ahead: Sustainability Goals for 2026 09:51 The Game-Changer: Better Stands Initiative 15:29 Net Zero Goals: Current Status and Challenges 25:44 Sustainability in Business: Reality vs. Perception 30:48 Celebrating Success: Natural Products Expo West 33:20 Getting to Know Ben Welgus 36:27 Future Trends in Sustainability for 2026 40:26 Tommy Goodwin's Policy Agenda for 2026 45:00 Global Policy Forum and Future Trends Guest bios Ben Wielgus, Head of Sustainability, Informa plc A 25 year veteran of sustainability in large corporates, Ben Wielgus joined Informa in spring 2016 in the newly created Head of Sustainability role. His briefing: to create a competitive advantage from sustainability, building stronger relationships with customers, colleagues and other stakeholders. In 2023, he was short-listed as Sustainability Leader of the Year in the EDIE awards. Over the last 10 years, FTSE100 member Informa has repeatedly been recognised as one of the most improved businesses in sustainability and is currently listed in the top 1% of sustainable media business according to Dow Jones and MSCI. In 2020, Informa launched its FasterForward sustainability programme setting out an ambitious set of goals to become a zero carbon, zero waste business where sustainability is embedded within each of its products. Informa's multi award-winning Sustainable Event Fundamentals are now being used across more than 500 events globally. Before joining Informa, Ben spent nearly 15 years working as part of KPMG's Sustainability Advisory Group. He was responsible for leading dozens of engagements working with senior audiences in large, global organisations helping them understand how sustainability can be an asset that returns on the investment in it rather than acts as a cost. Ben specialises in helping organisations understand how the risks and opportunities from sustainability can affect an organisation's overall strategy. He works with them to build suitable governance and embed responses to the challenges. About Informa: Informa is a leading business intelligence, academic publishing, knowledge and events business, operating in the Knowledge and Information Economy. It is listed on the London Stock Exchange and is a member of the FTSE 100. Tommy Goodwin, Executive Vice President for the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance Tommy Goodwin is Executive Vice President for the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA), the advocacy association for the business events industry. In this role, he leads ECA's work on behalf of the interconnected ecosystem of exhibitors, event and meeting organizers, suppliers, venues, and destinations that comprise the global business events landscape. Prior to joining ECA, Tommy spent more than 20 years working for several globally recognized associations and corporations, including Oracle, AARP, and the Project Management Institute. Recognized by The Hill in its list of association "Top Lobbyists" every year since 2020, Tommy has also received several industry awards including: CEO Update/Association Trends: Leading Association Lobbyist (2023) American Society of Association Executives (ASAE): ASAE Fellow (2022) DCA Live: Association Innovation Leader (2022) Trade Show news Network: Industry Support Award (2022) MeetingsNet: Changemaker (2022) Podcast Host Bio: Danica Tormohlen An award-winning journalist who has covered the trade show industry since 1994, Danica Tormohlen is VP of Group Content, Meetings, Sports, Travel for Informa Connect. In her role, she oversees content for Trade Show News Network, Corporate Event News, BizBash and Connect's portfolio of in-person events. These leading media brands publish websites, newsletters, social media channels, video, podcasts and online and in-person programming for the trade show, corporate event, association meeting, experiential marketing and exhibition industries. Tormohlen currently serves as immediate past president of the Women in Exhibitions Network North America chapter. She has been a speaker and moderator at major industry events, including the TSNN Awards, IMEX, IAEE, SISO, UFI, ESCA, DI and Large Show Roundtable — to name a few.

48 min

01/12/2025

Countdown to CES 2026: A Preview with CTA President Kinsey Fabrizio

In the 69th episode of the Trade Show Talk podcast, host Danica Tormohlen interviewed Kinsey Fabrizio, president of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) and producer of the Consumer Electronic Show (CES). They discuss what's new for CES 2026, which is expected to welcome more than 140,000 attendees from 150+ countries to Las Vegas in January. The 2026 tech extravaganza will debut the CES Foundry focused on AI and quantum technologies, a show sector that will be held at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Fabrizio shared insights from her recent trip to the UFI Global Congress in Hong Kong and outlined how CTA is leveraging AI to enhance attendee experiences through the event's mobile app. Additionally, there's an advocacy update from Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance EVP Tommy Goodwin on the latest government and tariff developments affecting the trade show industry. This episode is brought to my Trade Show News Network and is sponsored by Marriott. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Trade Show Talk 01:26 Meet Kinsey Fabrizio: Background and Achievements 02:47 Insights from the UFI Global Congress 05:06 Preview of CES 2026 06:25 Exciting New Features at CES 2026 08:18 The Role of Robotics and Health Tech at CES 12:42 Kinsey's Fabrizio's Journey and Leadership at CTA 22:54 Advocacy and AI in the Tech Industry 30:14 Personal Interests and Hobbies 31:10 Favorite Gadgets and Wishlist 35:27 Travel Tips and Hacks 39:06 Advocacy Update with Tommy Goodwin 39:33 Government Reopening and Tariff Discussions 46:05 Visa Fee and Industry Impact 50:17 Conclusion and Farewell Guest bio: Kinsey Fabrizio Kinsey Fabrizio is president of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, which represents more than 1,200 consumer technology companies and owns and produces CES® - the most influential tech event in the world. In this role, Fabrizio serves on CTA's Executive board and directs strategy and operations across all business units. Since joining CTA in 2008, Fabrizio has driven transformation at both CTA and CES. As senior vice president, she oversaw CES conferences and show operations, led an expansion of CES products, and spearheaded a modernization of CTA's membership infrastructure and categories. Earlier in her career, she drove strategic growth in emerging tech categories. A pioneer in the digital health space, Fabrizio created CTA's Health Division, launched a healthcare provider program for doctors at CES 2015, and debuted CES's first Continuing Medical Education (CME)-accredited conference in 2019. She also spearheaded the Video Division Board's 4K and 8K TV initiatives, founded the Content and Entertainment Council, and launched CTA's Disruptive Innovation Council in 2016 to engage companies with breakthrough technologies and services. Fabrizio's leadership earned her recognition as one of Washingtonian's Most Powerful Women in 2025 and a Washingtonian Tech Titan in 2024 and 2025. She also received the 2023 Women in CT Legacy Award for her contributions to the consumer technology industry. Fabrizio is a member of the George Mason University Costello College of Business Dean's Advisory Council and the Washington Economic Club. She holds a BA from George Mason University and an MBA from the University of Maryland Global Campus. She lives in Arlington, VA, with her husband and two children. Guest bio: Tommy Goodwin Tommy Goodwin is Executive Vice President for the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA), the advocacy association for the business events industry. In this role, he leads ECA's work on behalf of the interconnected ecosystem of exhibitors, event and meeting organizers, suppliers, venues, and destinations that comprise the global business events landscape. Prior to joining ECA, Tommy spent more than 20 years working for several globally recognized associations and corporations, including Oracle, AARP, and the Project Management Institute. Recognized by The Hill in its list of association "Top Lobbyists" every year since 2020, Tommy has also received several industry awards including: CEO Update/Association Trends: Leading Association Lobbyist (2023) American Society of Association Executives (ASAE): ASAE Fellow (2022) DCA Live: Association Innovation Leader (2022) Trade Show news Network: Industry Support Award (2022) MeetingsNet: Changemaker (2022) Host bio: Danica Tormohlen An award-winning journalist who has covered the trade show industry since 1994, Danica Tormohlen is VP of Group Content, Meetings, Sports, Travel for Informa Connect. In her role, she oversees content for Trade Show News Network, Corporate Event News, BizBash and Connect's portfolio of in-person events. These leading media brands publish websites, newsletters, social media channels, video, podcasts and online and in-person programming for the trade show, corporate event, association meeting, experiential marketing and exhibition industries. Tormohlen currently serves as president of the Women in Exhibitions Network North America chapter. She has been a speaker and moderator at major industry events, including the TSNN Awards, IMEX, IAEE, SISO, UFI, ESCA, DI and Large Show Roundtable — to name a few. Keywords: CES, Kinsey Fabrizio, Consumer Technology Association, AI, trade shows, event industry, technology trends, advocacy, digital health, robotics

52 min

02/11/2025

Ep. 68: Taking Calculated Risks with RX CEO Hugh Jones

"At RX, we celebrate failure, which is kind of a strange thing to say," said RX CEO Hugh Jones on the November 2025 edition of Trade Show Talk. Why? "Failure is actually a part of the executive process and making great choices," he said In this episode, Host Danica Tormohlen delves into this topic and more with Jones, who shares the company's recent growth and strategic bets in the trade show industry. Jones discusses a broad range of topics, including RX's expansion into Saudi Arabia, digital product development, and the importance of celebrating failures to drive innovation and leadership. For context: RX, a division of public company RELX and ranked No. 2 on the Stax Top 20 Exhibition Organizers List (by revenues), produced 282 face-to-face events in 25 countries in 2024, and these events served 41 industry sectors and attracted more than 6 million participants, according to its 2024 Annual Report. Some of RX's flagship events include New York ComicCon, JCK, ISC West, and FIBO Global Fitness. In its most recent earnings report in August, RX saw 8% growth year over year for the first half of 2025. The episode also features interviews with Legends Global GM Rodney Falk on the Cincinnati convention center's reopening in January 2026 and Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance Executive VP Tommy Goodwin on the U.S. government shutdown's impact on the industry. 00:00 Introduction to Trade Show Talk 00:34 Meet Hugh Jones, CEO of RX 01:22 Sponsorship Message from Legends Global 02:08 Hugh Jones' Background and Philosophy 04:17 Interview with Hugh Jones Begins 04:24 The Importance of Taking Risks 07:16 RX's Expansion and Acquisitions 08:36 Digital Transformation at RX 11:39 Innovative Approaches in Trade Shows 15:16 Navigating the Pandemic and Strategic Changes 20:25 Value-Based Selling and Customer Focus 29:08 Advocacy, Sustainability, and Talent in the Trade Show Industry 37:40 The Importance of Standardization in Events 40:30 Digital Innovation and Future Trends 44:42 Real-Time Matchmaking and Industry Trends 46:08 AI in Trade Shows: Strategy and Implementation 49:41 Personal Insights: Monday Morning Routine 52:24 Upcoming Events and Travel Plans 54:35 Hobbies and Family Life 55:55 Worst Business Advice Ever Received 58:25 Cincinnati Convention Center Update 01:14:27 Advocacy Update with Tommy Goodwin 01:22:03 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes This episode is brought to you by Legends Global. Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands. Legends Global delivers a fully integrated suite of premium services—from feasibility and consulting to venue management, sales, merchandise, hospitality, partnerships, content and booking. The company's white-label approach keeps partners front and center while leveraging the power of their global network with more than 450 venues, 20,000 events, and 165 million guests annually. Learn more at LegendsGlobal.com.  Guest bio: Hugh Jones Chief Executive Officer Every executive has to place bets in order for the value propositions to remain relevant to the customers, but not every bet has to work. Hugh believes that executives learn by both our successes and our failures. That philosophy has served Hugh well over the years since joining RELX in 2011, following the purchase of Accuity where he was Chief Executive Officer. In addition to leading Accuity to become one of the world's largest and most significant companies in the payment routing and Anti Money Laundering sectors, Hugh has also led Fircosoft, NRS, I.C.I.S, Estates Gazette (EG) and Cirium; and before joining RX he was Global Managing Director within the Risk and Business Analytics Division. Hugh's philosophy has seen him lead large scale acquisitions and subsequent integrations of many companies that now reside and prosper within the RELX portfolio. Hugh joined RX as CEO at the start of 2020, bringing with him plenty of experience in public company protocol and all facets of business management including P&L oversight, talent development, forecasting, sales execution, technology innovation and product discovery, launch and growth. Hugh's experience has been invaluable in navigating RX's response to challenges and his strategic understanding of technological innovation has accelerated the use of digital and data products and services across RX events, as an ongoing core component of RX face to face events. Passionate about building a culture of collaboration, exploring, risk taking, accountability and courage, Hugh champions the creation of a psychologically safe and inclusive workplace for all. versed in public company protocol and all facets of firm management including P&L oversight, talent development, forecasting, sales, technology and product innovation, discovery, launch and growth. A mélange of exceptional investment and overall management qualifications, combined with superior analytical leadership. Accustomed to and effective in high-profile executive roles, making high-stakes investment decisions with world-class clients and customers. Versed in leading investor forums at a publicly traded firm, commercializing data streams, contributing forward-thinking vision and overcoming complex business obstacles. More than two decades of experience building corporate value by creating rich data streams that provide new solutions to difficult corporate challenges. Successful at developing and coaching top executive teams, leading sales efforts, and negotiating complicated corporate and functional business deals with financial institutions, corporations and governmental agencies. • Member of the Young President's Organization (YPO) since 2009 • Served on numerous Boards for the benefit of Private Equity firms • Winner of the 2013 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in Financial Services for the Midwest Region • Holds a BA in economics from Yale University cum laude and an MBA from the University of Michigan Guest bio: Tommy Goodwin is Executive Vice President for the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA), the advocacy association for the business events industry. In this role, he leads ECA's work on behalf of the interconnected ecosystem of exhibitors, event and meeting organizers, suppliers, venues, and destinations that comprise the global business events landscape. Prior to joining ECA, Tommy spent more than 20 years leading social impact, member value, public affairs, and international engagement efforts for several globally recognized associations and corporations, including Oracle, AARP, and the Project Management Institute (PMI). Additionally, he was a research fellow at Harvard Business School focused on the international political and legal environment in which businesses and social enterprises operate. Tommy has a B.B.A. from The George Washington University, an M.B.A. from Auburn University, and a Postgraduate Diploma in European Union Law from King's College London. He also holds several certifications including a Project Management Professional from PMI, a Certified Meeting Planner from the Events Industry Council, and a Certified Association Executive from the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE). Recognized by The Hill in its list of association "Top Lobbyists" every year since 2020, Tommy was also named a "Leading Association Lobbyist" by CEO Update/Association TRENDS in 2023. He has also been elected as a Fellow by ASAE (2022), named an "Association Innovation Leader" by DCA Live (2022), received the "Industry Support Award" from Trade Show News Network (2022), and recognized as an events industry "Changemaker" by MeetingsNet (2022). Tommy currently serves on the advisory boards of Factum Global and The Iceberg. He is also a past president of the National Institute of Lobbying & Ethics and a past chair of ASAE's Executive Management Professionals Advisory Council and Advocacy Council. Host bio: Danica Tormohlen Meet Danica Tormohlen, a dynamic force in the trade world who's been telling compelling stories for more than 30 years. As VP of Group Content at Informa, she's the mastermind behind Trade Show News Network, bringing the pulse of the industry to life. When she's not crafting engaging content, you'll find her behind the microphone hosting the Trade Show Talk podcast, where she chats with industry movers and shakers. A proud Mizzou Journalism School grad (go Tigers!), Danica has left her mark across the events industry landscape, from SISO to Trade Show Executive. Her trophy shelf sparkles with journalism awards, but what really gets her excited is breaking new ground for women in the industry. As a founding member and current president of the Women in Exhibitions Network North America, she's passionate about lifting others up while climbing the ladder herself. When she's not reporting on trade shows and events, you'll spot Danica pounding the pavement as an enthusiastic runner or rolling up her sleeves with the National Charity League, proving that giving back is always in style. Her secret sauce? A perfect blend of journalistic integrity, industry insight, and boundless energy. Catch Danica's latest thoughts on LinkedIn and X, where she's always sharing industry insights with a personal twist.

1hr 23min

01/10/2025

Episode 67: Obsessing About the Customer with Clarion Events North America CEO Liz Irving

"I spend a lot of time talking about customer obsession," Liz Irving, CEO of Clarion Events North America, said in this episode of Trade Show Talk with host Danica Tormohlen. They discuss Irvings's extensive career in the exhibition industry—from her beginnings helping her father to her current role leading the fourth largest independent trade show company. She shares insights on Clarion's approach to leadership, culture, digital transformation, and sustainability. She also highlights the importance of customer obsession, innovation, and meaningful experiences. Additionally, there's an update on the current state of the federal budget and tariffs from Tommy Goodwin of Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance. 00:00 Introduction to Trade Show Talk 00:28 Meet Liz Irving, CEO of Clarion Events North America 01:23 Liz Irving's Early Career and Inspirations 05:04 Liz Irving's Leadership Journey 08:17 Clarion's Culture and Development Programs 13:22 Strategic Acquisitions and Integrations 16:37 Digital Innovation and AI at Clarion 19:26 Industry Involvement and Leadership Insights 23:45 Cion Cares: Giving Back to Communities 24:39 Challenges in Sustainability 25:31 Emerging Trends in Trade Shows 27:25 Growth Strategies for North America 29:33 Innovative Event Experiences 30:30 Personal Insights and Fun Questions 35:00 Advocacy Update with Tommy Goodwin 42:40 Conclusion and Future Episodes This podcast is brought to you by Trade Show News Network and sponsored by Marriott Guest Bio: Liz Irving, CEO, Clarion Events North America Liz's endless curiosity, desire for learning, and passion for building relationships infuse her responsibilities as the Chief Executive Officer of Clarion Events North America. With over 25 years of experience in the events industry, she has transformed businesses through her strategic vision, customer-centric approach, and dedication to deliver measurable commercial outcomes. In her current role, Liz oversees the strategic direction for Clarion's North American business, focusing on customer and behavioral insights, commercial effectiveness, digital platform development, and innovation. She collaborates with portfolio directors to identify growth opportunities that enhance existing events and develop new digital offerings. Liz's forward-thinking mindset ensures that both face-to-face and digital experiences evolve to deliver ever-increasing value for customers and communities. At the heart of Liz's leadership is a commitment to fostering a culture of employee engagement, collaboration, and innovation. She has built an environment at Clarion that nurtures inclusivity, creativity, and continuous improvement, empowering teams to deliver exceptional outcomes for customers. Recognizing the importance of a thriving workplace culture, Liz prioritizes initiatives that inspire trust, encourage diverse perspectives, and drive shared success. Her efforts have made Clarion a destination for top talent and a hub for industry innovation. Liz's passion for events began early, helping her father set up his local food distributor events. This hands-on experience sparked a lifelong interest in the industry. She later worked in roles with the Convention & Visitors Bureau during college before joining the corporate events world. Prior to Clarion, Liz spent 14 years at Reed Exhibitions in various marketing leadership roles, including overseeing the leading jewelry media brand, JCK. Liz earned her bachelor's degree from Niagara University, a master's degree from the University of New Haven, and a digital marketing certificate from Cornell University. She remains deeply connected to the industry, serving as the Chair of SISO's Marketing Special Interest Group, a member of SISO's Board of Directors and UFI- The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry Board of Directors. Liz is an active participant in the Women In Exhibitions Network North American Chapter and several Event Technology Advisory Boards. Outside of work, Liz is dedicated to her family and community. She volunteers with her sons' sports teams, managing communications and events, and is proud to call Connecticut home, where she lives with her husband, two boys, two dogs, and a cat. Bio: Tommy Goodwin, Executive Vice President for the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance Tommy Goodwin is Executive Vice President for the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA), the advocacy association for the business events industry. In this role, he leads ECA's work on behalf of the interconnected ecosystem of exhibitors, event and meeting organizers, suppliers, venues, and destinations that comprise the global business events landscape. Prior to joining ECA, Tommy spent more than 20 years leading social impact, member value, public affairs, and international engagement efforts for several globally recognized associations and corporations, including Oracle, AARP, and the Project Management Institute (PMI). Additionally, he was a research fellow at Harvard Business School focused on the international political and legal environment in which businesses and social enterprises operate. Tommy has a B.B.A. from The George Washington University, an M.B.A. from Auburn University, and a Postgraduate Diploma in European Union Law from King's College London. He also holds several certifications including a Project Management Professional from PMI, a Certified Meeting Planner from the Events Industry Council, and a Certified Association Executive from the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE). Recognized by The Hill in its list of association "Top Lobbyists" every year since 2020, Tommy was also named a "Leading Association Lobbyist" by CEO Update/Association TRENDS in 2023. He has also been elected as a Fellow by ASAE (2022), named an "Association Innovation Leader" by DCA Live (2022), received the "Industry Support Award" from Trade Show News Network (2022), and recognized as an events industry "Changemaker" by MeetingsNet (2022). Tommy currently serves on the advisory boards of Factum Global and The Iceberg. He is also a past president of the National Institute of Lobbying & Ethics and a past chair of ASAE's Executive Management Professionals Advisory Council and Advocacy Council. Bio: Podcast Host: Danica Tormohlen An award-winning journalist who has covered the trade show industry since 1994, Danica Tormohlen is VP of Group Content, Meetings, Sports, Travel for Informa Connect. In her role, she oversees content for Trade Show News Network, Corporate Event News, BizBash and Connect's portfolio of in-person events. These leading media brands publish websites, newsletters, social media channels, video, podcasts and online and in-person programming for the trade show, corporate event, association meeting, experiential marketing and exhibition industries. Tormohlen currently serves as president of the Women in Exhibitions Network North America chapter. She has been a speaker and moderator at major industry events, including the TSNN Awards, IMEX, IAEE, SISO, UFI, ESCA, DI and Large Show Roundtable — to name a few.

44 min