Long-time IAEE President Steven Hacker Will Leave Next September

September 14, 2011

Steven Hacker, president of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events, will leave his long-time post when his contract ends Sept. 30, 2012.

"Having served IAEE since 1992 has been a remarkably rewarding experience,” Hacker said. “IAEE's leadership will now turn its attention to the very important task of finding a staff leader for the next phase of IAEEs' future.”

He added, “Allowing a full year for the process assures members that a very deliberative process will take place, that there will be no disruption to operations and that an appropriate turnover of responsibilities will take place.”

Hacker began his association management career in 1970 and is an active member of the American Society of Association Executives and serves as a director of the Travel Industry Association.

He also serves on the Board of Distinguished Judges & Advisors for the Media Section of the American Business Awards.

As president of IAEE, formerly the International Association for Exhibition Management, Hacker helped to build membership from less than 2,600 to more than 9,000.

“We all think highly of Steven and the way he has represented IAEE for the past two decades,” said Chairman of the IAEE Board of Directors Vinnie Polito. “Giving us a year in which to properly plan for this important transition is an incredibly valuable opportunity that many other organizations do not enjoy.”

He added, “We will now turn our attention to carefully analyzing what kind of staff leadership the association may require in the years ahead. IAEE has an outstanding headquarters staff that we value highly. Making the right CEO selection is critical both for them and for us as members.”

Polito said IAEE will issue periodic updates about the CEO transition plan but, for now, it is premature for anyone to send in letters and/or resumes.

“There are many milestones of which I am very proud, but none more important that knowing that I will leave IAEE with the finest staff we have ever had and arguably the best association staff in the nation,” Hacker 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.