Skift Take
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events has its first permanent woman president and CEO in its 95-year history.
Marsha Flanagan is the new president and CEO of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) as of December 1, 2023. She replaces Cathy Breden, IAEE’s executive vice president and COO, serving as interim CEO.
Breden filled the role while searching for a permanent replacement for president and CEO David DuBois, who left on October 1 to become CEO and president at Exhibitor Group. Breden will return to her current role with the organization until her retirement in June 2024.
Flanagan previously served as the senior vice president 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.
Before 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 developing and delivering all PPAI professional development and editorial offerings.
Flanagan also 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 vice president of professional development, where she oversaw operations, including all strategic partnerships, the design and delivery of all professional development offerings, and meetings management.
