Rodney Hart

Rodney Hart is the vice president of events at RainFocus, defining the company’s event portfolio while showcasing the power of the RainFocus event platform. He is focused on using event data to comprehensively measure event ROI across event types and specific event behaviors. Previously, Hart worked at Dell Technologies optimizing the onsite tech stack of in-person enterprise events of over 15,000 attendees and most recently pivoted to build large-scale digital and hybrid experiences.

Allison Snow

Allison Snow is a B2B marketing and customer insights expert, having served in leadership, sales enablement, and revenue marketing roles as a practitioner, industry analyst, and consultant. She has held senior positions with technology firms of various sizes, from a billion-dollar global IT consultancy to private-equity-backed software companies. She currently serves as the Vice President of Product Marketing at Bizzabo.

Trade Show Industry Leaders Share Trends and Predictions for 2023

In 2022, in-person U.S. trade shows enjoyed a steady comeback, attendees and exhibitors returned to showfloors to meet face-to-face again, event-related organizations went on hiring and promoting sprees, and industry professionals expressed a tone of optimism that hadn’t been heard since before the COVID-19 pandemic. However, with rumblings of a possible recession on the minds of many business event professionals this year, how are industry leaders feeling about the future in 2023? 

Kate Anastasi

Kate Anastasi is the director of sales and marketing at the award-winning Radisson Blu Mall of America. With more than 15 years of experience in events and hospitality, Anastasi and her team create one-of-a-kind experiences for clients and guests, always seeking to elevate their offerings and service. Named the 2021 Radisson Blu Manager of the Year, Anastasi has deep expertise in eventsfrom contract negotiation to execution and everything in between.

People News: Events DC, Messe Stuttgart, BlueHive and More Welcome New Talent, Elevate Team Members

While the job market may be cooling off in many markets across the nation, the trade show and events industry appears to be staying steady as show organizers, tourism agencies, event tech companies and more continue attracting new talent, promoting staff and expanding their executive teams. 

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.