Personify Announces Rich Vallaster, CEM, as CEIR Research Council Chair for 2025

Industry Expert from A2Z Events set to Guide the Next Era of Exhibition Industry Intelligence

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Personify and A2Z Events are proud to announce the appointment of Rich Vallaster, CEM, DES, as the 2025 Chair of the Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) Research Council. Vallaster, Senior Director of Industry Relations and Community Engagement at Personify, is a highly respected leader in the exhibition and events industry, bringing extensive experience and deep industry insight to this influential role.

Shaping the Future of Exhibition Industry Research

With an impressive background in event management, marketing, and research, Vallaster has earned the prestigious Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) designation, underscoring his expertise and dedication to excellence in the field. As the newly appointed CEIR Research Council Chair, Vallaster will guide efforts to enhance research initiatives, foster collaboration among industry professionals, and emphasize the pivotal role exhibitions play in economic growth.

"We are incredibly proud of Rich's appointment as the CEIR Research Council Chair for 2025," said Scott Collison, President and CEO of Personify. "His leadership, strategic vision, and wealth of experience will undoubtedly elevate the Council's efforts and strengthen the future of exhibition industry research."

A Bold New Chapter for CEIR and IAEE

The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) continues to expand its research division, and Vallaster's leadership arrives at a critical time. Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM, President and CEO of IAEE, expressed enthusiasm for his appointment:

"We are thrilled to welcome Rich Vallaster as the 2025 CEIR Research Council Chairperson. Rich has been an exemplary volunteer leader, a sought-after speaker, and a dedicated CEM faculty member. His deep understanding of our industry will be invaluable as we transition CEIR into IAEE as a dedicated research division. CEIR has long been a leader in exhibitions and events data and analysis, and through this integration, we will expand our consulting services, deepen our industry insights, and enhance the resources available to our members globally."

Vallaster's Vision for CEIR's Future

Accepting the role, Vallaster shared his enthusiasm for the future of CEIR:

"I am honored to be named Chair of the CEIR Research Council. I look forward to collaborating with my industry peers to further CEIR's mission of providing valuable insights that will shape the future of exhibitions. The Council is composed of exceptionally talented professionals, and together, we will continue to elevate the importance and impact of research in our industry."

Vallaster succeeds Jennifer Hough of Taffy Event Strategies and Trifecta Events, who made significant contributions to CEIR during her tenure. Her leadership set a high standard for the role, and she will continue to support CEIR as a valued member of the council.

About Personify & A2Z Events

Personify partners with associations, chambers of commerce, nonprofits, event professionals, YMCAs, JCCs and other organizations to help them bring people and ideas together. Our technology platform, combined with our professional service and support, empowers organizations of all sizes at every step of their journey. Personify's integrated solutions enable clients to build reliable revenue streams and achieve greater success, and our partnership means they never do it alone.

Part of the Personify portfolio of brands, A2Z Events is a leading provider of event management solutions, dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences for clients and attendees. With a focus on innovation, efficiency, and excellence, A2Z Events continues to set the industry standard.

About CEIR

The Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) is a non-profit organization committed to providing high-quality, objective research on the exhibition industry. CEIR's insights help professionals make informed decisions, drive growth, and maximize the impact of exhibitions worldwide.

SOURCE Personify Corp