After a months-long search, the High Point Market Authority board of directors has appointed trade show executive Tom Conley to the post of president and chief executive officer, effective Aug. 15. He replaces Brian Casey, who left the Market Authority in the spring.
“We are very pleased to have someone of Tom’s caliber join the Market Authority, particularly with his extensive background in trade show management,” says HPMA Chairman Kevin O’Connor of Samson Marketing. “As we move forward, the objective for the Market Authority under Tom will be to develop strategies that will make the High Point Market even better, and to expand its role as the world’s premier home furnishings market. Tom has strong experience in building trade show attendance and working with multiple constituencies to ensure success, and I know under his leadership the Market will continue to grow.”
Conley currently is the owner of TPC & Associates in Chicago, a convention and trade show services business, which he launched in 2009. Before forming his own company, Conley was president of the Toy Industry Association in New York and headed the annual International Toy Fair, a 100-year-old trade show.
Conley also has held the post of president for the Steel Service Center Institute, The International Travel Management Partners, and the National Housewares Manufacturers Association, where he successfully designed and implemented new processes to improve and redefine the annual Housewares show.
“Tom is a good fit for us,” O’Connor says. “One of his strengths is his experience in helping organizations focus on making their customers their first priority. He will guide us through the process of continuing to improve the business experience in High Point for Market attendees.”
About the High Point Market Authority: The High Point Market Authority, www.highpointmarket.org, is the official sponsor of the High Point Market in High Point, N.C. Featuring an extensive selection of exhibitors spanning every category, style and price point and attracting thousands of visitors from more than 106 countries twice each year, the High Point Market is the driving force of the home furnishings industry.