Karen Gonzales Named IAEE’s Director, Partnership Relations
November 26, 2017
Karen Gonzales, CMP has joined the staff of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events as director, Partnership Relations.
In this role, she will assist with selling exhibit space for Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition and manage the sponsorship and advertising programs for IAEE, as well as fundraising for Exhibitions Mean Business. Gonzales will also engage in outreach and attendee acquisition for the Center for Exhibition Industry Research Foundation’s initiatives.
“I am honored to join the IAEE Team! This role allows me to engage and expand global opportunities for the exhibitions and events industry,” Gonzales said.
She added, “This position fits right in with my experience and expertise and will allow me to foster new and existing relationships while supporting the overall mission of IAEE and CEIR.”
Gonzales’ previous experience includes serving as vice president – Business Development for the Association Forum in Chicago, where she was responsible for all business development that included partnerships, sponsorships, advertising sales and revenue generation.
She also was involved in the strategic development and direction for the organization, along with creating plans to support successful outcomes.
In addition, Gonzales served as executive vice president – Sales & Business Development for Destinations International (formerly Destination Marketing Association International), where she was responsible for membership growth and retention; business and global development; sponsorships; and administrative and financial reports. Her duties included setting strategies, goals and objectives for the department; create and implement member value and benefits; and ensure business processes and procedures, as well as evaluate industry trends.
Prior to Destinations International, Gonzales was managing director, Multicultural Program/Initiatives for Meeting Professionals International (MPI).
Gonzales is an active member of various industry associations including the Meetings Industry Fund, American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) and Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA). She also is past-chair of the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) governance council.
"Karen's vast resumé of experience is a welcome addition to the IAEE staff," said IAEE President and CEO David DuBois, CMP, CAE, FASAE, CTA. “Her impressive results in revenue generation, along with her profound understanding of the inner workings of trade associations, will serve as an incredible asset to IAEE and our ability to offer the best amenities to our members.
Partner Voices
Overview:
The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality.
In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way.
“We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.”
Amenities:
The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.
The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience
The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need.
Gold Key Members
The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events.
OCCC Events:
This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.
The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:
AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023
200,000 Attendees
$257 Million in Economic Impact
MEGACON 2023
160,000 Attendees
$205 Million in Economic Impact
Open Championship Series 2023
69,500 Attendees
$89 Million in Economic Impact
Sunshine Classic 2023
42,000 Attendees
$54 Million in Economic Impact
Premiere Orlando 2023
42,000 Attendees
$108 Million in Economic Impact
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