David Levin Will Step Down from CEO Post at UBM in 2014

September 15, 2013

David Levin informed the board of UBM that he will be leaving his CEO post by July 31.

The board will begin the search process for his successor, led by UBM’s chairperson, Helen Alexander. Levin will stay in his CEO post until a successor is found.

"David has led the remarkable transformation of UBM into a focused, international events-led marketing communications business during a time of huge change in the media industry. He has successfully laid the foundations for UBM's next phase of development,” Alexander said.

She added, “David remains in charge, and we are working closely together to ensure a good handover when the time comes."

Levin started with UBM in 2005 and has been involved in the information, technology and media sectors since 1994, holding senior positions at the international business publishing group Euromoney Institutional Investor PLC, as Group COO, Group CFO, and as president of Institutional Investor magazine group in New York.


Between February 1999 to April 2002, he was CEO of Psion plc, the handheld computing company, and between April 2002 and April 2005, he was CEO of Symbian, a mobile phone software licensing company.



Prior to that, Levin also worked for the private equity group Apax Partners, based in the U.K., as Managing director of a number of engineering companies, and with the consultancy firm Bain and Company, mostly in Asia and the USA.



"I have really enjoyed leading the transformation of UBM's business over the past eight years, together with a great group of colleagues,” Levin said.



He added, “During this time, UBM has completed more than 100 acquisitions and more than a dozen disposals, and we have returned more than £900 million ($1.4 billion) of cash to shareholders. UBM's two main businesses, Events and PR Newswire, offer significant opportunities for growth, both organic and by acquisition.”



Levin also oversaw the growth of the company into emerging markets, such as China, India, Brazil, Turkey and the ASEAN region, and further expansion into the U.S.



“I feel that it is the right time to look for my next challenge. I look forward to the future and, in the meantime, it is business as usual,” Levin said.

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.