People News: Moves at Reed Exhibitions, ASM Global, KBIS and More
November 18, 2020
From presidents and board of directors to fine-cuisine-minded appointments in the Midwest, here’s the latest news about professionals in the trade show industry that you need to know.
Fernando Fischer was named president of Reed Exhibitions Americas on Nov. 11. Previously CEO of Reed Exhibitions Brazil for three years, he had joined Reed Exhibitions as U.S. president in January this year. In his new role, Fernando continues to directly lead the company's operation in the United States and adds Latin America under his regional management, where he has Claudio Della Nina, managing director of LATAM, in the local management of Brazil and Mexico operations.
On Nov. 4, ASM Global announced Bob Newman would assume the new role of chairman of ASM, transitioning from his current role as president and CEO. Newman, who was previously president of AEG Facilities, will continue to serve as CEO while a search is conducted for a successor CEO.
As of Nov. 16, Emerald has appointed Jason C. McGraw as vice president, responsible for oversight of Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) and CEDIA Expo. Additionally, Amy Hornby has been appointed to a newly created position of director of key accounts for the same two shows.
Last month, Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority’s board of directors selected Charles Harris to be the organization’s next president and CEO. Through direction of the board, Harris will be responsible for planning, coordinating and directing all activities associated with the operation of the RSCVA and its facilities. He began his new role Nov. 16, and most recently was chief marketing officer and executive vice president of public affairs for Visit Anaheim.
SEARCH Foundation, a 501(c)3 dedicated to assisting hospitality and event professionals in crisis, last month announced its new incoming board of directors, which includes:
- Chairwoman Kate Patay
- Vice Chairman Patrick McMichael
- Treasurer Larry Green
- Secretary David Lombardo
- Immediate Past Chairman Rick Turner
- Executive Advisor Joann Roth-Oseary
- Directors: Nick Borelli, Judy Brillhart, Evan Carbotti, Mark Catuogno, Thuy Diep, Bobby Dutton, Jerry Hellman, Stephanie Jayko, Frank Puleo, Michele Polci, India Rhodes, Thomas Whelan Jr. and JC York
Interprefy, a Zurich-based provider of cloud-based interpretation services for meetings and events, has appointed Annett Polaszewski-Plath as its new CEO. She will take over from founder Kim Ludvigsen, who will transition out of the role and continue to serve as vice chairman of the board. Polaszewski-Plath most recently served as managing director at Eventbrite DACH.
The Wisconsin Center — a quasi-governmental body that operates Wisconsin Center, UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena and Miller High Life Theatre in downtown Milwaukee — has new leadership in the kitchen. Newly appointed General Manager Julio Henriquez and Executive Chef Christopher Pulling, both of Levy Restaurants, demonstrated the venue’s five-star hospitality through a private, socially distanced Oktoberfest-themed tasting event at Wisconsin Center on Oct. 27.
Have more people news to share? Send announcements to lpsavas@tsnn.com.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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