Australian Business Events Association Board Director elected to UFI Board

Matt Pearce, Australian Business Events Association Board Director and Chief Executive of Talk2 Media & Events has been elected to serve on the Board of Directors at UFI - The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry.

Pearce's three-year term will commence following UFI’s forthcoming annual General Assembly, set to take place ahead of their Global Congress on 1st November 2023, in Las Vegas, USA.

UFI is recognised as the global trade association for leaders of tradeshow and exhibition centre operations, as well as prominent national and international exhibition associations and industry partners. It stands as a driving force in the global exhibition industry, safeguarding the business interests of its members and the entire exhibition sector.

The appointment of Pearce to the UFI Board of Directors ensures the Australian Business Events industry is represented on a global stage, and that ABEA itself is privy to shaping the course of the global exhibition industry.

Melissa Brown, Chief Executive of ABEA noted “Matt’s contributions to our industry and the formation of ABEA are well documented. He is a terrific choice to represent Australia on the global stage. His insights will be important as we continue to make strides for our community in Australia.”

Michael Duck, UFI President and Informa Markets, EVP Commercial Development welcomed the newly elected and re-elected Board members to the UFI Board in a statement.

“I am constantly proud that we have so many enthusiastic members who wish to contribute to our industry. It's such an exciting time to be making such a contribution as we regrow and restart our shows around the world. I wish to say a big, personal THANK YOU!” said Duck.

UFI directly represents the interests of over 50,000 professionals within the global exhibition industry, with a network spanning more than 820 member organisations in 85+ countries, and close collaborations with its 60 national and regional association members. Over 1,000 international trade fairs proudly bear the UFI-approved label, symbolising a hallmark of quality for visitors and exhibitors alike.

The UFI Board of Directors is comprised of a maximum of 60 members and elections take place every 3 years. During this process, members unite in selecting a truly global body with representation from UFI chapters situated around the world. The Board of Directors is tasked with implementing decisions taken by the General Assembly, developing UFI policy and preparing all proposals related to matters affecting international trade fairs. These proposals are then submitted for vote to UFI members at the annual General Assembly.

The Australian Business Events Association Ltd (ABEA) is the leading industry body responsible for representing and supporting the prosperity of the organisations and people that work in, or benefit from the Australian Business Events Sector.  

ABEA represents the unified ambitions of the Australian business events industry and its people. We will drive real impact regarding sector growth and development through advocacy, members support and innovation.  

For membership enquiries and general association information, please contact Domenic Genua via join@abea.org.au or 0412 642 357.