255 Leaders Share & Network at ECEF, May 28, Washington DC

ARLINGTON, VA—April 16, 2025—Understandably, many organizers are under pressure to not take a public position on the turmoil that is creating so much economic uncertainty. That’s where the Exhibition and Convention Executives Forum (ECEF) comes in. For 24 years, ECEF has been the only venue where executives at associations and independent organizers can network, speak frankly, and share opportunities. In 2025, ECEF will be indispensable for leaders who want to prepare for the worst and explore unforeseen opportunities.

The top-to-top networking is legendary at ECEF. “I curate the presentations to get conversations started,” said Sam Lippman, President, Lippman Connects, organizer of ECEF. Here are some preliminary highlights of ECEF 2025, to be held May 28 in Washington D.C.:

Welcome Reception — Equal parts fun and business, attending the ECEF Welcome Reception is the fastest way to amplify your executive network.

5 Key Data Points in 5 Minutes — Sam Lippman sets a fast pace for the day with his uncommon conclusions, based on just released data courtesy of Freeman Research.

Pivot or Die: How to Navigate in a Changing Environment — In this Keynote Address, Gary Shapiro, CEO of the Consumer Technology Association, will give you a perspective on business flexibility from multiple perspectives. First and foremost, as the visionary who has led the Consumer Electronic Show to continuous unparalleled growth. And, as a close observer of the technology CEOs who lead CTA and increasingly other sectors of society.

Will Rising Exhibitor Costs Backfire? — A major anchor exhibitor and a spokesperson for suppliers, explain how rising costs are affecting exhibitors and the future of your events. Jeannie Henson, Director, Exhibit Management, Siemens Healthineers and Julie Kagy, Executive Director, ESCA: Exhibition Services & Contractors Association, will break it down for the ECEF audience.

Return on Value: The Evolution of Value-Based Selling — Two years ago, President of RX Americas Fernando Fischer rocked the ECEF audience with his company’s audacious approach to consultative sales. As customer expectations evolve, delivering and communicating ROI is no longer the finish line; it’s now the baseline. Building on the success of their value-based selling journey, Indiya Okam, Group Vice President of Sales, RX, will be sharing how the company is evolving its focus. The emphasis is shifting from Return on Expectations to defining Return on Value, a more comprehensive approach for your sales teams to drive growth and deliver better outcomes.

Good News from Davos for Your Show — Every January, the World Economic Forum brings together political, business, and thought leaders. Better known as Davos, it is arguably the most exclusive annual event in the world. Although more than 3,000 leaders attend as well as more than 500 members of the press, Davos does not measure success by attendance or media coverage. In this thought provoking session, regular Davos attendee Dr. Charlotte M. Farmer, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, UL Research Institutes, will explain how Davos organizers evaluate its impact by the conversations sparked, partnerships formed, and progress achieved. Here is some of what you will take away:

• Purposeful Design Created Spaces for Impact — Dedicated spaces for multilateral discussions enabled diplomats, CEOs, and thought leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue. These hubs are designed to encourage openness, innovation, and partnership.
• Seamless Logistics Orchestrated a Flawless Experience — Davos achieved easy access and mobility while providing enhanced security for thousands of world-famous VIPs.
• Designed for Exclusivity and Engagement — Explore first-hand examples of how Davos created moments that feel both intimate and exclusive, while also fostering a sense of community.

Headwinds — In this interactive session, Hervé Sedky, President and CEO, Emerald, will moderate a panel of experts, including Kevin Hinton, Managing Director, Group Travel, U.S. Travel Association; Isabelle Icso, Executive Director, International Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce; and Richard Scarfo, President, HLTH. Each speaker will explain how economic disruption in other sectors will ripple through our industry, sharing insider knowledge on how to mitigate and even avoid pitfalls. The emphasis will be on information sharing and preparing for unforeseen opportunities to leverage unexpected circumstances.

The Innovator’s Edge: The Difference Between Standard and Standout Events — What sets groundbreaking event organizers apart from those who simply maintain the status quo? First, Freeman Senior VP - Strategy Ken Holsinger and mdg President Kimberly Hardcastle will unveil key Freeman research findings on the fundamental differences between "Innovators" and "Conventionalists" in relation to event planning and execution. Next, two forward-thinking organizers — Tom Gattuso, Vice President, Events - Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and Nicole Hallada, Senior Vice President of Exhibitions & Marketing (AEM) — will share how they embraced the "Innovator" mindset to drive real change and meet the evolving needs of their audiences. You’ll leave with fresh perspectives and actionable insights to elevate your approach to managing teams, stakeholder expectations and the long-term success of your event.

Additional features include a networking breakfast and lunch, extended networking breaks, and the annual TechDemo, with event technology demonstrations geared to non-technology executives. For additional information and to register, click here.