The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (NOENMCC) is proud to announce its Senior Director of Sales and Event Services, Elaine Williams, CMP, CEM-AP, will serve on the Board of Directors for the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE). IAEE is the largest association in the exhibitions and events industry, with its membership organizing and hosting more than 20,000 exhibitions worldwide.
Williams joins 16 other board members and nine ex-officio members comprised of international business executives, entrepreneurs, top event directors and the leaders of multiple associations.
Williams’ 25 years of experience at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center leads to governance role at International Association of Exhibitions and Events.
“Elaine’s appointment to the IAEE Board of Directors puts her talents right where they belong – alongside international events innovators and business leaders,” said Michael J. Sawaya, Convention Center President and CEO. “This group defines the future of our industry and delivers thoughtful guidance to usher its members forward. Elaine’s experience of over 25 years in the Convention Center industry has prepared her to represent this international organization with the distinct leadership, operational and sales insight, and events expertise this post demands.”
“Elaine’s industry experience and knowledge is highly valued by the IAEE Board,” said IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM. “Her longstanding commitment to enhancing our industry is admirable and we look forward to the contributions she will make as IAEE embraces the new technologies and practices currently transforming our industry.”
Williams began her career at the NOENMCC in 1996 as a sales manager for ARAMARK and joined the Convention Center’s sales team in 2007 as a national sales manager. Promoted to her current role as director of sales in 2013, Williams drives business growth, oversees revenue generation and ensures successful event experiences through every stage, from planning to execution.
Williams continuously seeks out opportunities to explore new aspects of the industry and advance her professional development, becoming a well-known and respected industry leader. She was awarded the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation from the Events Industry Council in 2005, earned a Certification in Exhibition Management (CEM) in 2015, completed her CEM-AP (Advanced Professional) in 2021, and was nominated for the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Supplier of the Year award in 2022. With her impressive background, Williams was asked to contribute to the 2018 book “Professional Sales and Selling, a Guide for the Hospitality Industry.”
As a member of IAEE’s Board of Directors, Williams will use her vast experience to help the association evaluate new technologies and practices that will guide positive change in the global meetings and events industry.
“As I humbly step into this new position, I look forward to embracing the opportunity to help shape experiences, ignite connections, drive positive change, and inspire innovation on a grand stage,” added Williams. “It is an honor to be part of something with such accomplished leaders and for a vital organization that is leading the way in shaping this industry.”
In addition to her newly elected position on IAEE’s Board of Directors, Williams also serves on the Board of Governors for the International Association of Venue Managers’ (IAVM) Senior Executive Symposium.
Elaine Williams Appointed to IAEE Board
