Dan Darby, Cem Email & Phone Number

Atlanta, Ga, Us

Atlanta, Georgia

Led LightFair by supervising a four-member executive team (VP Conference, EVP Operations, Executive Director Client Relations, Marketing Director) and driving strategic planning and execution. Ensured a successful and seamless show experience by overseeing end-to-end show management, from venue selection to exhibitor and attendee marketing. Streamlined exhibitor experience and enhanced interactions through digital upgrades like online space selection and a modern exhibitor directory.Highlights of accomplishments in this role include:- Retained 40% exhibitor loyalty during the pandemic by executing LightFair 2021, which included launching a Loyalty Rate program for exhibitors from 2022 to 2024 and adding virtual conference options.- Built a high-performance, collaborative culture by transitioning a team of 12 from micromanagement to autonomy, retaining adaptable, high-performing staff.- Reinforced LightFair’s role as an educational leader by coordinating the annual conference, which attracted over 2K participants and offered 160 CEU credits.- Received the 2022 Lighting Industry Person of the Year award from the Edison Report for contributions to industry resilience and operational continuity; earned the 2022 TSE Fastest 50 Award for rapid growth in net square footage.

Dallas/Fort Worth Area

Led a team of three Directors and provided specialized digital support for show-specific marketing teams by overseeing digital marketing for 12 trade shows from the Dallas office, establishing an in-house digital agency model. Delivered faster project completion, cost savings, and consistent on-budget results by directing an in-house creative services team and job trafficking.Highlights of accomplishments in this role include:- Attained a 3% Click-to-Open Rate (CTOR) boost by building and supervising the Digital Marketing department, utilizing optimized social media, retargeting, and geo-targeting to enhance buying efficiency and engagement.- Drove a 5.5% increase in conversion rates per show by creating a Strategic Marketing Campaign template for the ICRE portfolio, and standardizing attendee acquisition strategies.- Strengthened campaign execution capabilities through transitioning to Adobe Eloqua and Adobe Experience Manager (AEM), facilitated with a comprehensive training and data program.

Atlanta, Georgia

Greater Atlanta Area

Greater Atlanta Area

Ensured cohesive event execution across all roles by leading a six-person team, including VP Finance, Show Manager, Director of Marketing, Sales Director, Office Manager, and Registration Manager. Elevated exhibitor satisfaction by refining booth change request processes with a priority point system, offering a clear and efficient procedure. Improved strategy for consumer-focused shows, managing all show operations from venue contracting and budget oversight to space sales, marketing, and media partnerships.Highlights of accomplishments in this role include:- Expanded the team and optimized operations for nine annual shows, including a high-demand January lineup in Miami, NYC, and the nation’s largest indoor antique show.- Improved 62% portfolio profitability and product quality by integrating newly acquired shows into the U.S. Antique Shows lineup, aligning with consumer standards.- Saved $110K annually by reducing outsourcing expenses, bringing marketing functions in-house, and reorganizing staff, augmenting overall budget efficiency.- Increased revenue by $225K and NSF gain by 18% by restructuring the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show floorplan.

Bachelor Of Journalism Arts, Public Relations, Advertising, And Marketing Communication

Activities and Societies: Chi Psi

Certified In Exhibition Management, Exhibition Management