Elaine Williams joins the IAEE Board of Directors, bringing over 25 years of experience in convention management to help steer the adoption of innovative practices in the industry.
DALLAS – The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) announced that Elaine Williams, CMP, CEM-AP, Senior Director of Sales and Event Services for the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center has joined its Board of Directors. Williams’s career in the convention and hospitality industries spans over 25 years, providing her with a solid operational foundation and extensive sales experience.
“Elaine’s industry experience and knowledge is highly valued by the IAEE Board,” said IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM. “Her longstanding commitment to enhancing our industry is admirable and we look forward to the contributions she will make as IAEE embraces the new technologies and practices currently transforming our industry.”
“As I humbly step into this new position, I look forward to embracing the opportunity to help shape experiences, ignite connections, drive positive change, and inspire innovation on a grand stage,” added Williams. “It is an honor to be part of something with such accomplished leaders and for a vital organization that is leading the way in shaping this industry.”
Williams began her journey at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center with ARAMARK in 1996, serving as a sales manager. Her talent and dedication propelled her through a series of progressively responsible roles, including director of sales, director of operations, and interim general manager.
Since joining the convention center’s sales team in 2007 as a national sales manager, Williams has consistently demonstrated her expertise in both sales and operations, quickly ascending to director of sales in 2013. In her current position, she leads a team dedicated to driving business growth and revenue generation and ensuring successful event planning and execution. Her role encompasses overseeing the entire spectrum of sales and event services, from initial planning to seamless execution.
To further solidify her industry knowledge, Williams has pursued continuous professional development. In 2005, she earned the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation from the Events Industry Council, signifying her expertise in the field. A decade later, she achieved her Certification in Exhibition Management® (CEM), a globally recognized credential for excellence in exhibition and event management. Demonstrating her commitment to industry leadership, Williams completed her CEM-AP (Advanced Professional) in May 2021.
In 2018, Williams expanded her reach as a contributing author for Professional Sales and Selling, a Guide for the Hospitality Industry. She actively engages with the professional community, also serving on the Board of Governors for the International Association of Venue Managers’ (IAVM) Senior Executive Symposium. She was nominated for the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Supplier of the Year award in 2022. Williams’s extensive experience, educational achievements, and commitment to industry service make her a respected leader in the field of convention and event management.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
