The Board of Directors is tasked with implementing decisions taken by the General Assembly, developing UFI policy and preparing all proposals related to matters affecting international trade fairs. After thorough preparation, these proposals are submitted for vote to UFI members at the annual General Assembly.
KUALA LUMPUR – The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre’s General Manager, John Burke, has been elected to the prestigious UFI Board of Directors for a three-year term. UFI is the global trade association of the world’s tradeshow organisers and exhibition centre operators which represents, promotes, and supports the interests of its members and the exhibition industry.
Commenting on his new role at UFI, John said, “I am very honoured to have the privilege of serving on UFI’s Board for the next three years and would like to thank everyone who voted me into that position. I am looking forward to working with the President, CEO, and other Directors to drive the exhibition industry to new heights and deliver even more value for UFI members.
“The exhibition industry is a key growth area for Business Events in Malaysia, and particularly Kuala Lumpur, with several organisers expanding their show portfolios. The significance of exhibitions as a driver of economic and cultural enrichment at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, as many other centres in Malaysia, has been underscored by its aggressive bounce back. According to UFI Barometer July 2023 Report, 90% of Malaysian respondents have voted their certainty in the quick recovery of exhibitions and the significance of face-to-face format, a 10% increase from the 29 th edition in 2022, marking the highest vote of confidence, in comparison to other Asia Pacific and global markets. I believe that through continued collaboration and innovation, we can further elevate the role of exhibitions, fostering economic growth, knowledge exchange, and cultural connections across our industry,” John concluded.
The UFI Board of Directors is comprised of a maximum of 60 members, and elections take place every three years. During this process, the members elect a truly global body with representatives from UFI chapters around the world.
“I am very pleased to thank all newly elected and re-elected Board members to the UFI Board. I am constantly proud that we have so many enthusiastic members who wish to contribute to our industry. It’s such an exciting time to be making such a contribution as we regrow and restart our shows around the world. I wish to say a big, personal THANK YOU!” says Michael Duck, UFI President and Informa Markets, EVP Commercial Development.
Chairman and CEO of ASM Global (APAC), Harvey Lister AM said he is delighted that the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre General Manager, John Burke is to play an active role in UFI over the next few years. “John has played a key role in the ongoing success of the Centre, which is acknowledged as the premier events destination in Malaysia. His energy and commitment in driving a variety of initiatives, and his particular focus on the importance of sustainability, will stand him in good stead in making a valuable contribution to the entire exhibitions industry in the years to come.”
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