Sally Shankland Steps Down as CEO of UBM Americas

May 22, 2015

Nine months after being appointed CEO of UBM Americas, Sally Shankland will be stepping down at the end of June to pursue an opportunity in a different industry.

“Sally’s commitment to UBM has been significant. She has seen the Group transformed from a print-heavy conglomerate into an Events-focused media and communications business,” said Tim Cobbold, CEO of UBM.

He added, “Her role within this transformation has been noteworthy, particularly her long tenure as leader of our U.S. medical media assets. I thank her warmly for her contribution and wish her every success in her new role.”

Shankland joined UBM in 1988 and held successive positions in marketing, sales and management. Shankland led UBM Medica U.S.'s transition from a print-based publishing business to its position as one of the leading digital marketing services businesses serving the U.S. healthcare market.

“The decision to leave UBM was far from easy to make as I feel passionately about the organization and the people that work here,” Shankland said.

She added, “However, after 28 years, I feel I am ready for a new challenge – at a new company and in a new industry. I will look forward to watching as UBM realizes its ambition of becoming the world’s leading B2B Events organizer.”

UBM officials said they expect to find a replacement before Shankland leaves at the end of June. Until then, she will continue to fulfill her duties, including her position on the Executive Committee and the Advanstar Integration Committee.

One month after Shankland was appointed CEO of UBM Americas, UBM agreed to buy Advanstar Communications for $972 Million from hedge fund Anchorage Capital Group LLC and private equity companies Veronis Suhler Stevenson and Ares Management.

Among other shows, Advansta runs MAGIC Market Week twice a year in Las Vegas that draws 80,000 attendees. 

Shankland is a graduate of UBM's Business Leaders Programme (2001 and 2011) and has completed executive development courses with Harvard Business School and Cornell University. 

She graduated from San Francisco State University with a B.A. (Summa Cum Laude, Honors) in Social Science following being educated in Italy and Germany. 

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.