The Society of Independent Show Organisers (SISO) has named Vinnie Polito (pictured) as its next CEO. His firm, VP International, will also take over as the management company for the organisation.
Polito will succeed David Audrain, CEO of Exposition Development Company (ExpoDevCo), who has managed the organisation for seven years.
The SISO Executive Committee recommended Polito for the position, which undertook a selection process. From there, SISO's Board unanimously agreed with the recommendation at its 11 August meeting in Oklahoma City, held in conjunction with the organisation's Summer Conference.
Cassandra Farrington, SISO chair, said: "Following a thorough process to identify preferred attributes for the next leader, solicit proposals and applications based on those criteria, and then identify the best candidate, we are confident that Vinnie is the right individual to take over leadership of SISO,"
"His industry experience and connections, combined with his history in the lobbying activities that have become so critical to our industry in recent years, make him ideally suited to the challenges and opportunities that define the organisation's next chapter."
Polito currently is managing director of trade show marketing firm mdg, and previously worked with Reed Exhibitions, Ziff Davis and COMDEX.
The role’s transition period, including a confirmation and new management contract, will begin following the approval.
Sharing of information and resources will happen during December, with VP International and Polito formally taking over management of SISO on 1 January 2023.
