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Mike Rusbridge

Mike Rusbridge

Krakoff Award Winner: 2010
Retired, Chairman and CEO, Reed Exhibtions

Mike Rusbridge is the retired Chairman and CEO of Reed Exhibitions, the world’s leading events organizer and a division of the Reed Elsevier Group plc, a world-leading publisher and information provider.

Mike has over 30 years experience in the exhibition industry, both at the sharp end, launching and running successful events, and in a strategic role, transforming a collection of local businesses into the world’s most global exhibition network.  He joined the industry in 1979 becoming Managing Director of Cahners Exhibitions Ltd (part of Reed Elsevier) in 1982, Chief Executive for Reed Exhibitions Europe in 1988, President for Reed Exhibitions Europe and Asia in 1994, and Chairman of Reed Exhibitions worldwide in 1996.

During his career with the company, Mike developed Reed Exhibitions’ global network into one of unrivaled brand strength, industry knowledge, and organizational expertise. In doing so, he has negotiated a series of successful partnerships and acquisitions with venues, organizers, trade associations and government bodies. In 2000 he oversaw the purchase of Miller Freeman Europe which added one million square meters of space to Reed Exhibitions’ already established portfolio, creating the world’s largest exhibition organizer.

Today the company employs over 2,600 event specialists in 39 offices worldwide and organizes over 500 events serving 47 industry sectors.

Testimonials

  • “Without a doubt the most valuable three days of the year for networking, learning, and meeting colleagues.”
    Tony Calanca, Calanca & Associates LLC
  • “Two of the best acquisitions Access Intelligence had executed came directly from contacts and discussions held at the SISO CEO Summit. Beyond that important networking for transactions, I learn best practices from the best in the industry. The ROI for membership is immeasurable.”
    Don Pazour, CEO, Access Intelligence
  • “The impact of SISO is so much bigger than its size. It feels more like a global council of important tribes than a traditional trade association.”
    David Adler, CEO & Founder, Bizbash Media
  • “Our industry thrives on the personal relationships that face-to-face builds, and the CEO Summit is the ultimate place to build YOUR network!”
    Tom Mitchell, President, Messe Dusseldorf North America
  • “As busy, independent, for-profit organizer, SISO keeps our company connected to all the key players working in this industry and allows great relationships and ongoing learning of best practices from the best in the business. All invaluable assets to help move our business forward."
    Howard Hauben, CEO, H2 Events
  • “The SISO membership represents the entire for-profit tradeshow community and the annual SISO conferences are must-attend events for their educational and networking value.”
    Joel A. Davis, Founder & CEO, JD Events
  • Being a member of SISO has allowed me to navigate the dynamic landscape of our industry in the most effective way possible. Personally, it’s been a journey of continuous learning, networking, and collaboration that fosters deep relationships with industry leaders. Professionally, the insights I’ve gained, the resources I have accessed, and the collaborative initiatives and advocacy work have helped to take my organization to new heights. SISO, to me, is an indispensable asset for my career and business.
    Liz Irving, President, Clarion Events