Who is incoming UFI CEO Chris Skeith?
UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, has announced Chris Skeith as its next CEO.
Chris takes on the post from January after incumbent Kai Hattendorf revealed he would be stepping down.
Throughout his career, Chris has been actively involved with UFI, chairing the Associations Committee and serving on UFI’s Executive Committee.
He said: “I look forward to continuing to serve our great industry, now on a global level at UFI.
“I am joining a UFI team that is already setting the global standard on research, advocacy, collaboration and community excellence and I will do my very best to build on the great work that has been done in the last decade.”
UFI president Geoff Dickinson added: “We interviewed several excellent candidates both from within and outside of UFI, and with Chris, we are convinced that we have selected an excellent leader to continue the development and evolution of UFI as our industry’s globally leading trade body.”
A career rooted in events
Chris’ journey in the events sector began at the Audit Bureau of Circulations, where he honed his skills in media auditing and later spearheaded the development of auditing products.
He joined the Events Industry Alliance (EIA) in 2006, where he orchestrated the merger of AEC & BECA to form ESSA (Event Supplier & Services Association).
His role progressed when he became director of ESSA’s sister association, AEV (Association of Event Venues), in 2010.
Chris used his tenure to drive venue engagement through numerous special interest groups, showcasing his ability to foster collaboration and innovation within the industry.
He has been CEO of the Association of Event Organisers (AEO), the leading association for organisers of events in the UK and internationally, since 2014.
His tenure at AEO has been marked by significant growth and development, cementing his reputation as a visionary leader in the events sector.
He was formally recognized in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List 2021, where he was awarded an OBE for services to the events industry.
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