President & CEO
International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE)
Marsha Flanagan, MEd, CEM, is President and CEO of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE). Marsha leads the association’s team, business planning, budgeting, governance support, business development and industry advocacy. She also represents IAEE through industry coalitions, partnerships and strategic alliances.
Before joining IAEE, Marsha was Director of Content Strategy and Development at Promotional Products Association International. She led the strategy, development and delivery of the association’s professional development and editorial content.
Marsha previously spent six years in the medical industry, working across operations, purchasing, revenue cycle management, marketing and business development.
She began her career with Meeting Professionals International, where she held several roles during 12 years with the organization. As Executive Vice President of Professional Development, she oversaw strategic partnerships, professional development and meetings management.
Marsha was named one of the 25 Most Influential People in the Meetings Industry by Successful Meetings in 2017. She was included in the BizBash Top 500 in 2018 and 2019 and was named a Meetings Today Trendsetter in 2021.
Marsha holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University and a master’s degree in education from the University of Arkansas.
Date

Workforce and talent development are two critical issues our industry faces. During Global Meetings Industry Day, the Events Industry Council hosted a live session highlighting the latest release of the Economic Significance Study. This panel builds on those findings, spotlighting critical data points, collaborative advocacy efforts, and workforce and talent development insights across regions and sectors. Gain practical guidance on how to use the research to inform decision‑making and strengthen advocacy efforts within your organization and beyond.
Learning outcomes:
Illustrate the key insights and what they signal for the industry
Explore how the research conclusions impact different sectors and regions
Find the tools and resources available through the EIC Advocacy Toolkit