The Events Industry Alliance has announced changes to its board structure following its autumn meeting at dmg events’ head office last week.
Ian Taylor assumes the role of EIA chair. Taylor is managing director of the NEC and chair of the Association of Event Venues. Kerry Villa, chief operating officer at ACC Liverpool, becomes AEV vice-chair.
Jeremy Rees continues as EIA treasurer. Rees is chief executive of Excel London. Dino Gazzi remains as finance director.
Rachel Swann steps down as EIA chair but remains on the board. Swann is chief operating officer of dmg events’ energy division. Alison Willis, chief executive of Easyfairs UK & Global, also stays on the board.
Andrew Williams joins the board as the final AEO representative. Williams is president of Maritime Group and executive vice-president at Informa Markets.
“Thank you to Rachel Swann for her efforts over the past year, I am looking forward to my term leading the EIA team as we continue advocating for the industry,” said Taylor.
Rob Brackstone, Alexandra Bailey and Marija Erzen all remain on the board. Brackstone is managing director of ESM and chair of the Event Supplier and Services Association. Bailey is managing director of Creative8 and ESSA vice-chair. Erzen is co-owner of Solutions2.
The three association chief executives complete the board: Rachel Parker from AEV, Anna Golden from AEO and Andrew Harrison from ESSA.
The board rotates between the three associations annually. AEV is now the lead association.
The EIA is currently calling for a Mutual Recognition Agreement with the EU. The alliance wants to ensure the UK remains competitive as a destination for business events.
