AVIXA, the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association, has announced the appointment of Chris Lavelle to the role of Senior Director of Development Europe.
Lavelle takes over from Pam Taggart who will be moving into a global position with AVIXA as Senior Director of Strategic Relationships, based in the U.S. The changes will be effective from June 1st.
Previously Regional Director for UK and Ireland, Lavelle will be responsible for the team based in Munich and the UK. According to AVIXA, he will spend ‘significant time’ visiting members and allied associations throughout Europe and the Middle East.
His remit is to oversee continued market growth in the region and pursue AVIXA’s ongoing mission to serve as an industry hub.
“It’s a real pleasure to be given this exciting opportunity, and I look forward to getting started in my new role,” commented Lavelle. “There has been some fantastic work done by our team in Europe, and there is a strong desire and commitment from AVIXA to do even more to deliver our message, liaise closely with our existing members and further drive membership growth.
“I look forward to working with our talented team and using our shared experiences and knowledge to offer the AV community the best level of service we can, whether that be providing education, working with partners, increasing awareness or helping to raise industry standards,” he added.
Team changes a response to European growth
The move is part of a wave of team changes at the association, triggered by a rise in new membership across Europe.
In Munich, Jennifer Leutgeb replaces AVIXA Education Program Manager, Ally Fowler, who takes on the role of Director of International Education following the retirement of Bill Thomas. The company has also appointed a European Marketing Manager, news of which will be announced in the coming weeks.
Other changes include the promotion of Ben Barnard to Regional Manager, UK and Ireland. Sarah Carless will also move into a new role as Member Relations Manager, with a new Program Coordinator to be appointed in her stead. Additionally, Valeria Rapa has been made Program Coordinator in Italy on a permanent basis.
AVIXA is the producer of InfoComm trade shows around the world, co-owner of Integrated Systems Europe, and the international trade association representing the audiovisual industry. Its 5,400 members encompass manufacturers, systems integrators, dealers and distributors, consultants, programmers, live events companies, technology managers, content producers, and multimedia professionals from more than 80 countries.
