Scott Schulman, CEO of UBM Americas talks about his career in international exhibitions.
How did you get into the events industry?
I’ve spent the past 25 years working in the B2B information and media industries. The businesses I worked in and led were multi- platform and included digital, print, live events and other formats. The common thread was helping business people connect, learn and do business. Working with business marketers over many years, I have always been appreciative of the powerful role that events play in reaching customers and prospects.
Favourite thing about events?
They bring communities to life. There’s also a great serendipity with events. Sometimes you find surprising things that you didn’t expect to find.
What do you think you can bring to the new role?
I can bring some new perspectives and ideas to the strong brands and people we have at UBM. We have a clear strategy and great foundation, and I’d like to help the business grow in new ways and directions.
What have you done in the first month in the job?
I’m attending our events, chatting with our team, meeting customers and learning a lot.
What’s on your desk?
My MacBook Air, my cup of coffee, a banana, and a sloppy bunch of papers.
Who is the individual you most admire?
Coach K. OK, I’m a Duke alum and a huge Duke basketball fan. Coach Krzyzewski has been an amazing leader and he does it by building relationships and setting a clear vision, but he doesn’t over-manage either.
What was the last album you listened to?
A Retrospective by Son Volt. If you don’t know it, check out the song Picking up the Signal and take it from there.
The last film you watched?
Steve Jobs. I really liked it, but it’s probably not for everyone.
At EN HQ, we take our coffee very seriously - how do you take your coffee?
Very seriously too. I grind coffee beans every morning (my favourite beans come from Aldo’s in Greenport, Long Island). Then some milk and my special blend of ’little bit of sugar and little bit of Stevia’.
