The Events Industry Alliance (EIA) – the collective associations of AEO, AEV and ESSA has named Dino Gazzi as its new finance director.
Gazzi, a chartered accountant, has over 20 years’ experience as a finance director, financial controller and head of financial reporting across sectors including retail, sport, leisure, property and media.
Gazzi combines a strong technical background in financial control and reporting with strategic management. He joins EIA following eight years as group finance director with Apxpress Ltd and 14 years at the Football Association.
On his appointment, Gazzi commented: “I am really excited with the opportunity to join this unique organisation. I have been made to feel very welcome by the whole EIA team and look forward to meeting the wider EIA network.”
Rachel Swann, chief operating officer – energy division, dmg events, steps up as EIA chair for AEO’s term as lead, with Alison Willis, CEO, EasyFairs UK & Global, as vice-chair, while Anna Golden joins the board in her new role as CEO, AEO.
Marija Erzen, co-owner, Solutions2, steps down as EIA chair but remains on the board, and Alexandra Bailey, managing director, Creative8 Ltd, joins for the first time as ESSA vice-chair.
Kerry Villa, COO, ACC Liverpool and AEV vice-chair, joined the board in autumn, while thanks go to Martin Cairns, managing director, Beechwood Events, who leaves after eight years representing ESSA.
Additionally, Gazzi replaces Margery Youngs following her twenty-year career with EIA.
Jeremy Rees, CEO, Excel London and EIA Treasurer, said “We are delighted to welcome Dino to the EIA team. Thanks go to Margery for her contribution over the years and we wish her well in her new pursuits. The new EIA board will continue its work to increase the visibility of the events industry, which drives £61.6bn of trade into UK businesses, to ensure the events industry is counted.”
