Speakers

SISO

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Rick McConnell

President, Informa Exhibition Construction & Real Estate, Inc.

Rick McConnell is President of Dallas-based Informa Exhibitions U.S. Construction & Real Estate, Inc., and President of Informa Canada. Informa is one of the world’s leading business intelligence, knowledge and events businesses with more than 6,000 employees in over 100 offices across 25 countries. A 27-year veteran in tradeshow management, McConnell began his career at Informa when it acquired Hanley Wood Exhibitions in December 2014. He was named President of Hanley Wood Exhibitions in July 2009, where he is responsible for managing and growing the company's exhibition activities. He began his career at Hanley Wood in 2001 as Show Director, after holding senior management positions with Miller Freeman/VNU, MAGIC International, and the Dallas Market Center. McConnell holds an MBA from the University of Arkansas and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Southwest Texas State University. He is a long-time active member of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events and the Society of Independent Show Organizers . He served as the SISO Chair from April 2014-205, and frequently speaks at industry events and seminars. McConnell and his wife, Kim, live in Coppell, a suburb of Dallas, and have three daughters, Holley, Heather and Hannah.

“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