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The IMEX Group, a leader in the global trade show industry, has announced the appointment of Gary Coombs as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). This newly created role is designed to bolster the strategic and operational frameworks necessary to support the company’s ambitious goals and vision. Gary Coombs, who joined IMEX as Chief Information Officer (CIO) in 2021, brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record in transforming businesses through technology and efficient management practices.
A New Leadership Role
In his role as COO, Gary Coombs will be instrumental in coordinating teams across various departments within IMEX. His responsibilities will include overseeing the Operations department, Marcomms, and IT & Transformation, ensuring these areas are aligned with the company’s strategic direction. As a key member of IMEX’s senior management team and a Board member, Gary will play a pivotal role in driving the company’s future growth and success.
Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group, emphasized the importance of this role: “The beating heart of our company are our two shows – IMEX Frankfurt and IMEX America – and ensuring they continue to deliver business benefit, inspiration and connections to the global meetings and events community is our core goal. In his new role, Gary will ensure our teams are best placed to achieve this. We’re delighted to appoint him as COO and look forward to continuing to work with him to deliver the impactful, forward-thinking shows we’re renowned for.”
IMEX Group’s Evolution
Founded in 2001, IMEX Group has grown to become a significant player in the trade show industry. Its first event, IMEX Frankfurt, was held in Germany in 2003, followed by the launch of IMEX America in Las Vegas in 2011. These award-winning shows attract over 13,000 industry professionals from 100 countries, making them pivotal events in the global meetings and events sector.
The creation of the COO role follows an operational review aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of IMEX’s team structures and roles. With a workforce of over 80 staff, this review is part of IMEX’s broader strategy to align its operations with its long-term vision. This vision includes fostering a thriving global business events industry that focuses on positive change and upholds the company’s values: Put People First; Achieve Together; and Lead the Way.
Gary Coombs’ Vision and Background
Gary Coombs joined IMEX as CIO in 2021 and has since spearheaded several transformative projects. One of his notable achievements includes launching a new online platform powered by ExpoPlatform. This platform was designed to enhance the value of IMEX shows for attendees, featuring innovative tools like free business lead scanning for buyers and exhibitors.
Before his tenure at IMEX, Gary’s career was predominantly in the media and events sector. He held significant roles at The Economist, EMAP, and UBM, where he honed his skills in building high-performing teams and leveraging technology to drive business success. His ability to integrate technology with operational processes has been a hallmark of his career, making him well-suited to lead IMEX into its next phase of growth.
Reflecting on his new role, Gary said, “‘Achieve together’ is one of our company values and we simply wouldn’t be able to deliver our shows without the best in class structures, culture, and processes in place to support the hard work our team puts in every day. I’m excited to help our talented and passionate team continue to drive forward the business and lead the way.”
The Future of IMEX Under Gary Coombs
As COO, Gary Coombs will focus on implementing the processes and structures needed to support IMEX’s strategic initiatives. His role will be crucial in ensuring that the company’s operations are not only efficient but also aligned with its overarching vision of fostering a dynamic and impactful global business events industry.
Under Gary’s leadership, IMEX is set to continue its tradition of excellence, delivering high-value experiences through its flagship events, IMEX Frankfurt and IMEX America. These shows will remain central to IMEX’s mission of connecting the global meetings and events community, providing inspiration, and driving business benefits.
Personal Life and Interests
Outside the office, Gary enjoys an active lifestyle in Hove, where he takes advantage of the seaside for kayaking and paddleboarding. He is also a fitness enthusiast who frequents the gym and values spending quality time with his wife and children.
Gary Coombs’ appointment as COO marks a significant milestone for the IMEX Group. With his extensive experience in technology and event management, Gary is poised to lead IMEX into a future of continued growth and innovation. His focus on enhancing operational efficiency and fostering a positive company culture will be key in achieving IMEX’s ambitious goals and maintaining its reputation for excellence in the global trade show industry.
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