Women in Exhibitions Network (WIEN) has appointed its first executive director. Founder Oana Cipca announced Sonia Thomas will be joining the organisation from 1 November.
Thomas (pictured left) has been deeply involved in the management of global associations for over 20 years, most recently as the COO of UFI.
According to WIEN, the new position will allow the association to expand and evolve, with sponsorship support from industry organisations such as MAD Event Management LLC, Messe Düsseldorf North America, and Visit Detroit.
Cipca said: “The next chapter of WIEN will be about building from our strengths and centring our voices to re-invent our impact in a changing industry. As WIEN faces the challenges and opportunities ahead, we are happy to have our new executive director Sonia Thomas officially represent this community.”
“I always admired Sonia for her collaborative leadership style, commitment to women in our industry, and her proven record. We are proud that she is taking this role and working with us on bringing WIEN forward.”
Thomas added: “I have deep admiration for Oana and the other women involved, and everything they have achieved so far. I aim to build on that strong foundation, and my priorities will be to grow and enhance the network.”
“I truly believe that the exhibition industry has a precious and sometimes untapped resource in the talented women that are part of it. Some progress has been made, but there is still work to be done. And of course, men have a role to play here, too in increasing female representation and in fostering diversity and inclusion”.
WIEN was officially launched in 2018 with the aim of supporting the continued professional development of women working in exhibitions and providing opportunities for them to meet and network. There are currently six international chapters operating, with new ones expected in 2023.
