Posted on March 15, 2025
The events industry has long been driven by creative thinkers, innovative leaders, and individuals who are passionate about bringing people together. Throughout history, women have played pivotal roles in shaping the landscape of events—ranging from grand conferences and exhibitions to intimate gatherings and experiential marketing campaigns.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s only fitting to shine a light on the incredible women who have excelled in the events industry and broken barriers, created opportunities, and paved the way for future generations of women leaders.
In this blog post, we’ll highlight 50 Influential Women in the Events Industry—trailblazers who have made an indelible impact through their leadership, vision, and dedication. These women represent the diversity, innovation, and resilience that make the events industry thrive.
In this list, we have women from across the board; event planners, marketers, CEOs and even thought leaders, their contributions are felt across every facet of the industry.
At InEvent, we’re proud to be a part of this vibrant community, supporting diversity and helping amplify women’s voices making a difference. So we’ll explore how the events industry continues to evolve with these women at the forefront, pushing boundaries, and setting new standards of excellence.
In honor of Women’s History Month and in no particular order, here are our top picks of female event influencers and professionals we think are worth following:
1. Janice Cardinale – Founder, Cardinale Creative
If there’s one thing that stands out about Janice Cardinale, it’s how she makes you feel. Not just in the rooms where she speaks or the projects she leads, but in every conversation, every connection she makes. Janice embodies what it means to lead with heart—an entrepreneur, advocate, and mentor who has made it her life’s work to push for a better, more inclusive events industry.
As the founder of Cardinale Creative, Janice took a leap of faith to launch her own business and founded Event Minds Matter. This initiative provides a platform for mental health awareness, particularly for those in the events, meetings, and hospitality sectors. Janice’s work has earned her recognition as one of Forbes’ Top 100 Most Influential People in Events (2023/24) and a Smart Meetings Hall of Fame Entrepreneur.
As a seasoned businesswoman who’s successfully founded and sold two businesses—Only Accessories and The Idea Hunter—she brings a refreshing perspective to leadership that blends creativity with empathy. Janice proves leadership in the events industry is all about creating a culture of trust, safety, and compassion.
2. Joanna Lean – Founder, Joana Lean Events
As the founder of Joana Lean Events, she’s spent over 15 years building experiences that revolve around understanding the human experience—the emotions, the connections, and the impact, with her expertise in positive psychology and mindfulness to every event she creates. She knows that when people feel seen, valued, and engaged, that’s when magic happens.
Her work speaks for itself. Joanna’s influence stretches across the events industry as one of the Top 100 Most Influential Event Professionals Globally and Top 20 in Canada. But titles don’t define her. What drives Joanna is the belief that events should leave people feeling inspired, celebrated, and empowered. Through practices like numerology and mindfulness, Joanna helps individuals tap into their authenticity, offering space for personal growth and emotional transformation.
3. Julia O’Grady – Founder & Event Strategist, ITM Events
When you think of a genuinely transformative figure in the events industry, Julia O’Grady is that rare mix of grit, vision, and heart. With over a decade of experience, Julia has mastered the fine art of turning complex, high-pressure events into memorable experiences as the founder of ITM Events.
Her track record speaks for itself: award-winning projects, a Top 100 Most Influential People in Events distinction, and a portfolio that proves her mastery of balance. A mother, a wife, real estate investor, and entrepreneur, she wears many hats, leads by example, and somehow finds the time to squeeze in leadership. She’s a true visionary who sees beyond the logistics and into the heart of every gathering. When you work with her, be rest assured that you’re partnering with someone genuinely invested in making that event a defining moment in your business’s journey.
4. Debbie García – Founder, Virsitour
After leaving a tech startup during the pandemic, she recognized an unmet need in the event planning world—a more efficient, virtual way to scout venues. With that spark, she launched Virsitour, a platform that empowers planners to book venues without ever having to leave their desk. Her diverse background—from TV production to destination management—equipped her to tackle this challenge head-on, making her one of the most innovative leaders in the event tech space.
Through Virsitour, Debbie continues to help planners save time and resources, all while providing venues the opportunity to connect globally. And so what started as a response to crisis is now a thriving solution, and Debbie’s unwavering determination continues to drive the industry’s future forward.
5. Wendy Porter – Founder & Chief Events Officer, Wendy Porter Events, LLC
As the Founder and Chief Events Officer at Wendy Porter Events, LLC, she’s proven that the secret to a successful event is more than just managing logistics. You can find her orchestrating a national sales conference, overseeing an activation at a high-profile music festival, or curating an award gala.
Her proven methodology, the WPE Planning Process, combines meeting design, event technology, experiential marketing, and logistics management to deliver results that align perfectly with brand goals. Her approach is client-centric, collaborative, and driven by a passion to produce results that matter for the event and the brand’s long-term growth.
Wendy’s recent achievements—including being awarded the ‘24 Smart Women in Meetings, Visionary Award and named one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in the Event Industry—speak to her undeniable impact. Still, those are just the icing on the cake.
6. Stacy Wyatt – Event Professional, Marketing Strategist, Community Builder
As a senior event professional, marketer, and community leader, Stacy’s name is synonymous with creating memorable experiences that drive engagement, foster connections, and deliver results that exceed the usual metrics.
Her leadership has shaped the future of Canada’s event industry, most notably through her pivotal role with Canadian Special Events—a platform she transformed from a modest blog into one of the most respected voices in the industry, and with global clients like RBC, Sony, Scotiabank, and Honda. As the Producer of CSE Live and Chair of the Canadian Event Awards, Stacy has raised the bar for event production in Canada.
Stacy’s recognition is well-earned. She’s been honored as one of Canada’s Top 20 Event Influencers (EventEx), named one of Canada’s Top 250 Event Professionals (BizBash), and celebrated as one of Canada’s Top 10 Female Leaders in Events (Event Combo).
7. Milena Santoro – CEO, MS Productions
Milena Santoro is a name synonymous with excellence, integrity, and innovative leadership in the events and education sectors. Her extensive career is rooted in a deep commitment to education and professional development. As an educator, she’s shaped the future of the events industry by designing cutting-edge curricula and certification programs at top Canadian educational institutions like NAIT, MRU, and VCC.
But Milena’s reach goes beyond education and consulting—she is also a published author and a featured speaker. She’s contributed to publications like “DEFYENEURS Season 2: Inspired Freedom”, where she shared insights on achieving personal freedom and living an extraordinary life. Her thought leadership has earned her a spot on various influential platforms, including Oxygen Network’s “Making It Big: Wedding Planning” series, where she proved her ability to thrive in high-pressure environments.
8. Beth Lawrence – Chief Experience Officer, Beth Lawrence Meetings & Events
Beth’s expertise in event planning, meeting management, and corporate events positions her as one of the industry’s top strategists, regularly sought after by prestigious clients such as Independence Blue Cross, the New Jersey Historical Commission, and the Public Interest Law Center.
Recognized for her leadership and expertise, Beth was awarded the Best Independent Meeting Planner accolade in 2018 and named among the Top 50 Voices in Events to Pay Attention To in 2024. She is also a podcast host of the Type A+ Podcast, where she offers bite-sized tips to help entrepreneurs and event professionals balance their personal and professional lives, even in the busiest of times.
She stands as a role model for aspiring leaders and event professionals, committed to raising the bar on every project she touches and nurturing an environment of inclusive collaboration.
9. Liz Caruso – CEO & Event Strategist, Liz King Events
What began as a simple Twitter handle in 2009, @LizKingEvents, evolved into a business that’s been driving change in event strategy ever since. With over a decade of experience in virtual and hybrid events, Liz has become an industry leader by embracing technology early on, blending it with the human touch that makes events memorable.
Her impressive work with clients like Microsoft and SeatGeek has earned Liz a spot among the Top 25 Most Influential People in the Meetings Industry. At her core, Liz is a family-first entrepreneur who believes in flexibility—in both business and life. She balances her career with homeschooling, making her story resonate with others who dream of having more control over their time.
10. Melissa Brannon – Founder & CEO, Uncommon Events
Melissa Brannon isn’t your typical event planner—she genuinely thrives at the intersection of creativity and precision. As the CEO behind Uncommon Events, Melissa has built a career around designing events that don’t just impress visually, but also deliver an unforgettable atmosphere explicitly tailored to each client’s personality.
Her strength lies in balancing ambitious ideas with real-world execution, ensuring luxury feels authentic rather than forced. After more than two decades orchestrating multi-day events around the globe, Melissa still approaches every project with genuine curiosity, fresh ideas, and a no-nonsense practicality that clients deeply appreciate.
11. Michelle Nicole McNabb – External Director of Events | Emenee Marketing ‘n’ Events
Michelle Nicole McNabb is the creative force and owner of Emenee Marketing ‘n’ Events, a firm dedicated to elevating B2B event management to new heights. McNabb has redefined event efficiency and impact by specializing in justifying and maximizing event investments for businesses investing $50K-$1M annually into their events.
By focusing on the 7 C’s of Event ROI, including Customer Experience, Credibility, Cash Flow, and more, she ensures each event is a strategic tool for business scaling, community building, and brand elevation. Her approach is systematic, sustainable, and designed to demystify event planning for non-professionals, ensuring every dollar spent is an investment in future growth.
12. Karen Hartline – Executive Producer, Live Content – Zillow
Karen Hartline has redefined excellence in the corporate event planning arena with over 18 years of groundbreaking work. She passionately merges vision with execution, ensuring each event achieves its goals and leaves a lasting impression on attendees.
Hartline’s strategic approach to budget management and event production has elevated the experiences of companies like Zillow, VentureBeat, and GitLab, where she successfully managed multi-million dollar budgets and led teams to execute large-scale, impactful events.
Her ability to innovate within the industry, from spearheading complex projects with tight deadlines to implementing sustainable and inclusive event practices, marks her as a trailblazer. Hartline’s profound impact and dedication make her an inspirational corporate event strategy figure worthy of recognition and admiration.
13. Carrie Freeman Parsons – Chair of the Board at Freeman Company
Carrie Freeman Parsons leads the Freeman Company with a vision that melds tradition with innovation, transforming it into a global authority on brand experiences. Her leadership emphasizes collaboration, integrity, and customer engagement, propelling Freeman to industry acclaim.
Focusing on impactful, immersive events, Freeman Parsons guides over 7,000 employee-owners across 90+ locations, championing excellence and innovation. Her stewardship marks a new era for Freeman, highlighting the transformative power of meaningful connections in the business world.
14. Annette Naif – Event Producer, Naif Productions
Annette Naif stands at the forefront of luxury event planning with over 25 years of experience. As the founder of Naif Productions, she specializes in creating unforgettable experiences for corporate, non-profit, and wedding events. Leveraging her film, television, and event production background, Naif delivers events that spark conversations and build brand loyalty.
Her services range from concept development to crisis management, all tailored to produce seamless and upscale events globally. Renowned for her strategic insights and exceptional customer service, Naif exceeds client expectations and mentors aspiring event planners toward success. Annette Naif is a proven leader in the event planning industry with a track record of working with top-tier clients and companies.
15. Carina Bauer – CEO of IMEX Group
Carina Bauer leads the IMEX Group as CEO, driving the success of IMEX America, the premier trade show for the global meetings and events industry in Las Vegas. With over 20 years of expertise, she has transformed IMEX into a pivotal platform for business, learning, and networking.
Under her guidance, IMEX America champions “Impact” as its focal theme for 2024/25, emphasizing the event industry’s role in addressing global challenges. Recognized for her contributions with an induction into the Hall of Leaders, Bauer exemplifies commitment to industry innovation and societal betterment.
16. Dahlia El Gazzar – Tech Evangelist + Idea Igniteur
Dahlia El Gazzar is a force to be reckoned with in the event industry. Nicknamed the “coffee-fueled go-to source” for event tech, Dahlia brings over a decade of experience. As the founder of DAHLIA+Agency, Dahlia’s influence extends far beyond her agency.
She’s a passionate advocate for the industry, a Women in Event Tech movement leader, and a sought-after speaker who ignites ideas with her infectious enthusiasm. Whether you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve with event tech trends or crave inspiration, Dahlia El Gazzar is someone to follow.
17. Liz Lathan – Co-founder, Club Ichi & The Community Factory
Known as “The What If Girl,” Liz challenges event marketers to think differently about audience engagement through her daily LinkedIn posts and her newsletter, The Engaged Attendee. She is the Co-Founder and Chief Community Officer at Club Ichi, a membership community designed to help B2B event marketers grow their networks, share knowledge, and move up the ladder.
Her leadership style is marked by inclusivity, a passion for learning, and a commitment to innovation, helping others cultivate their careers and embrace new possibilities in the events space.
Above all, Liz embodies the spirit of International Women’s History Month, demonstrating how curiosity, collaboration, and bold thinking can unite people in transformative ways.
18. Huong Nguyen – CEO of Shiloh Events
Event mastermind & CEO at Shiloh Events, Huong crafts captivating experiences that propel brands forward. Huong’s passion for events is palpable. She sees them as transformative tools, and Shiloh Events has become an industry leader under her direction.
They consistently exceed client goals, leaving audiences not just entertained but inspired. Huong’s dedication has garnered her recognition within the industry, but her greatest reward is undoubtedly witnessing the impact of the unforgettable events she brings to life.
19. Mahoganey Jones – Founder of Events Specialist Inc & EventPreneur Success Club
Mahoganey Jones, an acclaimed event professional, has etched her name in the annals of event management history with an illustrious career spanning over 17 years. As the first Canadian Event Professional to achieve the Certified Digital Event Strategist certification, Jones has been at the forefront of the evolution of virtual and hybrid events since 2008, marking her as a trailblazer in the field.
With a foundation built on full-service event management and production principles, Jones has masterfully managed various corporate events, from award ceremonies to CEO updates, for prestigious organizations such as the Canadian Special Operations Force and RSA Insurance Group.
20. Christy Lamagna – Founder, Strategic Meetings & Events
As the author of the best-selling “The Strategic Planning Guide for Event Professionals,” Christy has become a beacon of knowledge and inspiration in the industry. She is the brain behind Strategic Meetings & Events, an organization dedicated to producing corporate events that are not only memorable but also integrate the company’s sales and marketing message seamlessly into every aspect of the program. Christy founded Life Lived Strategically, offering strategic planning, coaching, and consulting services that apply the principles of event success to personal and organizational growth.
21. Helen Moon – CEO at EventWell
Recognizing the need for mental well-being and neurodiversity in events, Helen founded EventWell. EventWell is a leading social enterprise that creates safe and inclusive event spaces. From supervised quiet rooms to resilience hubs, they provide the support event professionals and attendees need.
Their mission? To ensure everyone feels valued and supported throughout the event experience. She’s also a champion for collaboration, having founded the EWL Club, a vibrant network fostering connections between event professionals.
22. Keneisha Williams – Founder of Black in Events Network
Stacey Spencer’s global Black In Events Network is a beacon for Black event professionals. This platform fosters a safe space for connection, support, and career advancement, ensuring Black talent thrives in this dynamic field.
She actively works to dismantle systemic racism in the industry through her involvement with the Events Industry Council Equity Task Force. Recognized as a MeetingsNet 2022 Changemaker and one of Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch, Stacey is a true industry leader.
23. Jeannie Power – Co-Founder of Power Event Group
Co-founder of Power Event Group, Jeanie helps meeting and event planners leverage the latest technology to create powerful experiences. Staying ahead of the curve in event technology is Jeanie’s specialty.
She understands that planners are already stretched thin, and her company takes the burden of navigating complex tech off their shoulders. From strategic implementation to ongoing support, Power Event Group ensures events leverage technology to their full potential.
24. Jenn Glynn – Managing Partner at Meeting Encore
Recognized as a MeetingsNet Changemaker, a Top 100 Most Influential Person in the Event Industry, and even the 2020 SITE Global President, Jenn’s expertise is undeniable. As the mastermind behind Meeting Encore, Jenn leverages her 31 years of experience to negotiate win-win contracts, find dream venues, and ensure your meetings, conferences, and incentive travel programs run flawlessly. The results speak for themselves.
With a proven track record of over 10,000 successful events, Meeting Encore boasts a deep network of hotel and venue partners eager to offer favorable terms. Jenn’s commitment to client satisfaction is evident in the glowing testimonials from industry leaders.
25. Sasha Frieze – Managing Director at The Business Narrative
Sasha Frieze is a narrative architect. For over 30 years, she’s crafted over 1,000 transformational events that resonate with audiences and deliver tangible business results. She believes events are powerful storytelling tools, and her signature Event Narrative Framework helps clients achieve crystal-clear communication of their event’s purpose.
A Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and the Chartered Institute of Marketing, she’s dedicated to giving back to the industry. She mentors aspiring event leaders, serves on the board of the Event Apprenticeships Programme, and even lectures at Westminster University.
26. Samme Allen – CEO at ATEX (The Attendee Experience Company)
Samme Allen, leading The Attendee Experience Company and founder of conferenceemcees.com, has transformed the world of events by prioritizing sustainability, diversity, and unforgettable experiences, leveraging her extensive two-decade career to craft immersive and impactful gatherings. Her approach combines high-energy engagement with innovative technology, ensuring every event—from virtual to in-person—leaves a significant, lasting impression.
27. Aryn Chapman – CEO at Ax3 Studios
Aryn, a force to be reckoned with in the event production industry for over 15 years, is the CEO and Senior Event Producer of Ax3 Studios. Aryn is a collaborative and strategic partner who builds strong relationships with clients across various industries and sectors, such as Microsoft, Mastercard, UN Global Compact, and Columbia Neurosurgery.
Aryn is also passionate about philanthropy and social responsibility, supporting causes such as SmileTrain and NAWBO NYC. Aryn’s mission is to set new industry standards and leave a lasting impact on her events.
28. Sarah Martins – Founder of Experience Epic Events
A force to be reckoned with in the event world, Sarah Martin is the CEO of Experience Epic Events – she’s also a 25-year veteran who’s reshaped the industry with her innovative spirit. Experience Epic Events, under her leadership, has become a powerhouse, orchestrating unforgettable experiences for the likes of the Super Bowl and Presidential Debates.
Not only that, Sarah secures major sponsorships (think $17 million) and attracts A-list celebrities, all while fostering a culture of empowerment through her co-founded Palm Beach Woman Magazine. Her dedication to sustainability and inclusivity ensures her events leave a lasting positive mark, making her a true industry leader.
29. Tess Vismale – CEO at iSocialExecution
Tess Vismale, the CEO of iSocialExecution, Inc., is celebrated as the superhero of event rescue, transforming potential event crises into seamless, engaging experiences. Tess’s work extends beyond the immediacy of event troubleshooting;
she is a venerated speaker, instructor, and co-host of the ‘Event Tech Pull Up’ podcast, where she shares her insights and champions diversity and inclusion within the event space. Tess Vismale’s blend of warmth, innovation, and expertise not only rescues events but also sets new standards for what it means to create truly memorable and impactful experiences.
30. Julia Hartz – Co-founder at EventBrite
Julia Hartz, co-founder and CEO of Eventbrite, has made an indelible mark on the global event technology landscape. Julia’s visionary approach to democratizing event creation has fostered a culture of innovation and connection within Eventbrite, earning her accolades for being named among Fortune’s 40 Under 40 and Most Powerful Women Entrepreneurs and an Inc. 35 Under 35 honoree. With her leadership, Eventbrite emerged as a pioneering self-service ticketing platform, empowering nearly one million event creators worldwide to transform their passions into successful businesses.
31. Connie Cay-Santos – Leadership Selection Committee, MPI Toronto Chapter
Connie Cay-Santos celebrated as a Senior Director of Growth & Engagement at Quest AV with over 14 years of experience, has masterfully combined her expertise in corporate management and entrepreneurial spirit to elevate audience engagement and foster strategic partnerships, earning her recognition as a Future Leader of the Year by MPI Toronto Chapter. Connie’s dedication to enhancing the attendee experience through creative audiovisual solutions and her commitment to sustainability, diversity, and mentorship have not only secured her a spot on the 2023 #WomentoWatch list but have also made her a respected thought leader and mentor in her field, inspiring others with her human-centric approach to business and events.
32. Sasha Souza – Director of Events at Sasha Souza Events
One of Sasha’s most significant achievements is building a million-dollar private experiences channel in less than a year. Her creativity and strategic thinking ensure exceptional experiences for every guest, as evidenced by her awards and recognition from industry leaders like Conde Nast and Catersource. She’s a passionate educator, sharing her expertise through online courses and business consultations. She’s also a dedicated philanthropist, having served on the boards of several non-profit organizations. Her dedication to her craft, her commitment to giving back, and her infectious enthusiasm make her a true inspiration.
33. Irina Graf – Founder of The MICE Blog/Event Planners Talk
Irina Graf is a multilingual event management professional with a knack for digital storytelling. Irina has become a go-to resource for event planners worldwide through her MICE Blog. In 2014, she founded the #EventProfTalk Twitter chat, fostering a vibrant online community for event professionals to connect and share knowledge. But Irina isn’t just about online engagement. She offers various services to DMOs and CVBs (Convention and Visitors Bureaus), including social media campaigns, live event coverage, and content creation.
34. Nicola Kastner – Founder of The Event Strategist
Nicola’s expertise is built on a deep understanding of brand and agency perspectives. Her strategic thinking and data-driven approach ensure that every event aligns with a brand’s objectives. Through her consultancy, The Event Strategist, Nicola helps global brands design and optimize event experiences that capture new audiences and generate measurable ROI.
35. Sarah Sebastian – Owner & Founder of Rose Gold Collective/National Rum Day Fest
Through her experiential marketing agency, Rose Gold Collective, Sarah curates unforgettable events that bring brands to life. But Sarah’s impact goes beyond brand building. She’s a champion for women-owned businesses and a Rolling Stone’s Culture Council member. Her passion for empowering others and meticulous attention to detail shines through in every event she orchestrates.
36. Catherine Rainey – Event and Travel Consultant at Eventuelle Ltd
With over 20 years of experience, Cat has orchestrated large-scale events like the London 2012 Olympics and the FIFA World Cup 2014. Her impressive career includes leadership roles at Cube Management UK, where she tackled projects like the LIV Golf events and the Rugby World Cup. But Cat’s influence goes beyond professional success. She’s a passionate mentor who champions a positive and supportive work environment. She’s also the founder of The Professional Retreat, an initiative that speaks to her dedication to well-being in the workplace.
37. Chardia Christophe – Garcia – Global Head of Audience Strategy | TIME Events
Chardia’s career trajectory is impressive. She’s held leadership positions at NewBay Media and American Express Publishing, consistently demonstrating her ability to manage diverse marketing initiatives and build successful teams. Chardia Christophe Garcia is a seasoned marketing and events professional passionate about building communities. She’s the Global Head of Audience Strategy for TIME Events, leveraging her expertise to cultivate engaged audiences for their events. With a strong work ethic and a dedication to excellence, Chardia is a role model for aspiring event and marketing professionals.
38. Rachel Russell – Assistant Director at EY
Rachel Russell’s creativity and drive have led her to create and execute unforgettable experiences for attendees across various industries. Currently, Rachel leads the Entrepreneur Of The Year® program for Greater Los Angeles, a prestigious initiative that recognizes high-growth business leaders. She’s a strategic thinker who understands leveraging events to build brand eminence and generate leads. Her work at the NAB Show directly resulted in a $1 million RFP win for her client. Her passion for the industry is undeniable. Rachel is a sought-after speaker and has been recognized with numerous awards, including Marketer of the Year by the American Business Awards and a Top Event Marketer in North America by Eventible. She’s also a champion for the future, serving on the Board of Directors for Arts Bridging the Gap, a non-profit organization.
39. Thuy Diep – Senior Meetings and Events Planner, CWT Meetings & Events
Thuy Diep has a natural flair for crafting meaningful experiences, driven by her belief that great events change how people feel, think, and connect. With certifications spanning event management, hospitality, and design, she has learned how to shape moments that genuinely stick with attendees long after they’ve left the venue.
Her contributions extend well beyond her impressive résumé. Thuy passionately mentors rising event professionals and gives back tirelessly through her work with the SEARCH Foundation, supporting industry peers during their most challenging times. Whether leading candid conversations on Event Brew or volunteering countless hours to industry associations, Thuy’s impact resonates deeply—she embodies what it truly means to lift as she climbs.
40. Francesca Gangitano – Senior Director Strategy & Planning, Impact XM
Francesca Gangitano is the kind of strategist who sees the potential in experiences before anyone else even recognizes there’s an opportunity. For over two decades, she’s been the creative powerhouse shaping how brands—from iconic giants like Nike and Coca-Cola to trailblazers like Beats by Dre—show up in the world, transforming events from fleeting moments into resonant memories. Named one of the “50 Most Influential People in the Events Industry,” Francesca creates strategies and experiences that captivate, inspire action, and leave lasting impacts long after the lights fade.
Her deep, almost intuitive understanding of human behavior sets Francesca apart, which she pairs effortlessly with her sharp strategic insight. Francesca’s visionary leadership at Impact XM consistently pushes brands to think bigger, innovate bolder, and engage more meaningfully, marking her more than just a trendsetter, but as someone reshaping the very future of experiential marketing.
41. Laura Tavernor – Marketing, Communications & Events Consultant
Laura Tavernor is someone you turn to when you want want results. She’s spent over 15 years mastering the tricky balance of crafting sophisticated marketing campaigns while keeping things refreshingly honest and relatable. Think about a massive exhibition, a targeted B2B roadshow, or even a vibrant networking reception—Laura’s probably handled it, nailed it, and made it look effortless.
It’s one thing to put together a visually stunning event, but quite another to design experiences that turn curious attendees into genuine business leads, and she seems to have perfected the art of doing just that.
She’s also deeply committed to supporting women in the events world—actively advocating for greater visibility, stronger voices, and meaningful career growth through her work with the Women in Exhibitions UK Chapter. Colleagues and peers appreciate her thoughtful leadership style, which mixes practical advice, good humor, and genuine empathy.
42. Tamar Beck – CEO, Gleanin
Tamar Beck is the kind of CEO who makes running a successful events business feel personal, approachable, and genuinely exciting. With over 15 years of experience spanning everything from intimate corporate gatherings to massive industry conferences, she knows exactly how to get people through the door—and talking about it long afterward. Her company, Gleanin, has become the go-to for event marketers looking to fill seats, and keep attendees returning year after year.
Friends and colleagues often highlight her warmth, creativity, and knack for solving challenging problems easily—traits that also shine through in her volunteer work, supporting elderly communities and advocating for women’s leadership in exhibitions.
43. Tanya Pinchunk – Co-founder and CEO, ExpoPlatform
When you first meet Tanya Pinchuk, you might not immediately guess she’s the mind behind some of the smartest tech quietly reshaping the events world. Why? Because Tanya doesn’t lead with jargon or hype—she leads with curiosity, connection, and an approachable warmth that instantly puts you at ease.
As the co-founder and CEO of ExpoPlatform, Tanya helps exhibitions go digital; she’s turning them into vibrant communities powered by AI that actually understands people. Whether she’s casually moderating a tech trends panel (with lots of babies in the audience, of course) or passionately advocating for the next generation of event professionals, she remains refreshingly real. Her quiet confidence, genuine kindness, and a relentless ability to simplify complex challenges into intuitive solutions have made her one of the most respected—and unexpectedly down-to-earth—leaders in event tech today.
44. Emma Barrett – Managing Director, Broadway Events
If you were looking for the traditional, polished business leader hiding behind a boardroom desk, you won’t find that in Emma Barrett. Instead, you’ll find someone who thrives on the energy of a buzzing expo hall, clipboard in hand, making sure every detail—from welcoming smiles at the entrance to the final keynote—is just right.
As Managing Director at Broadway Events, Emma she curates experiences that resonate deeply with attendees from healthcare and education sectors. Her passion for these industries shines through, and she genuinely cares about the communities she serves.
Emma also actively champions the role of women in the exhibitions world, spearheading initiatives that empower others to progress in their careers. It’s clear that for Emma, success isn’t about numbers—it’s in the relationships built and the real-world impact she creates along the way.
45. Danica Tormohlen – VP of Group Content, Informa Connect
Danica Tormohlen is a seasoned journalist who happens to know the trade show world inside and out. With an impressive resume spanning journalism, editorial leadership, and live-event storytelling, she blends the insight of an industry analyst with the approachable style of your favorite podcast host.
Currently steering content strategy at Informa Connect, she manages brands like Trade Show News Network, BizBash, and MeetingsNet and brings them to life. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed navigating the dizzying world of trade shows, she’s the person you’d hope to bump into by the coffee stand—someone who can give you clarity, share practical advice, and maybe even make you laugh about the chaos of it all.
46. Heidi Bianchi – CEO & Founder, The Bridge Events Agency
Heidi Bianchi is the kind of person you trust with your biggest moments—the ones you absolutely need to get right. For more than 20 years, she’s been quietly building her reputation as someone who excels at turning corporate gatherings into genuinely meaningful experiences.
Heidi’s strength is her ability to understand precisely what clients envision and then deliver it flawlessly. She’s not afraid to roll up her sleeves to tackle the details others might overlook, and clients love her approachable, collaborative style. She also spends much of her time mentoring the next generation of event professionals, sharing insights and practical wisdom with students eager to break into the events industry.
47. Jordan Lacey – Project Manager, Capital One
Jordan Lacey approaches event planning with an energy that’s part strategist, part caretaker. She’s led high-stakes programs for J.P. Morgan, Marriott, Schneider Electric, and Capital One, with an uncanny knack for making everyone—be it a CEO or an entry-level attendee—feel like they belong.
Beyond her corporate success, Jordan channels that same compassionate mindset into her nonprofit, Light The Candle, which provides birthday and holiday cards to foster children. It’s that blend of business acumen and heartfelt community work that shapes how Jordan leads, mentors, and inspires.
48. Kaylee Harris – Meeting Event Manager, Maritz
As a Meeting Event Manager at Maritz, she’s found her sweet spot in crafting experiences that cater to thousands of attendees without losing that personal touch. She’s deeply involved with PCMA, where she mentors rising talent and champions new ideas through student and next-gen engagement.
Beyond her busy role at Maritz, Kaylee’s commitment to professional growth and continuous learning shines—she’s already earned her CMP, and her dedication recently landed her a spot in PCMA’s “20 in Their Twenties” class for 2025. You’re likely to find her calmly directing a bustling trade show floor or sharing insights on how to foster intergenerational collaboration while building communities.
49. Bethany Coleman – Director, Events Management, The Institute of Internal Auditors Inc
For Bethany, events are living ecosystems waiting to be discovered. Over 15 years, she’s worked her magic on everything from intimate strategy sessions to colossal conferences with 200,000 attendees, always finding the pulse that turns a regular gathering into something people talk about long after it’s over.
Those who’ve seen her in action describe a professional who can fuse creative spark with laser-focused logistics, turning budget constraints and vendor contracts into opportunities for innovation. At Sensormatic, she led the pivot from live to virtual eventl just as the industry was on the brink of change during the COVID 19 pandemic—setting new standards in both technology adoption and ROI measurement.
Today, as Director of Event Management at The Institute of Internal Auditors, she continues to treat each event as a canvas for bold ideas, forging fresh connections that elevate both brand presence and audience experience. It’s no surprise that Teneo invited her onto its exclusive Client Advisory Board. After all, Bethany reshapes the possibilities of what events can be.
50. Leslie Berke – Events Marketing Consulting, Leslie Berke Consulting
Leslie (Krameisen) Berke has an uncanny ability to make every gathering—including C-level golf retreats to energetic trade show booths—feel like the perfect extension of a company’s story. After nearly two decades in events marketing, she’s learned one core truth: the biggest “wow” moments don’t come from giant budgets alone—they’re born of thoughtful strategy, genuine hospitality, and a deep respect for the brand’s voice.
Her earlier days as a meticulous copy editor taught her to spot the tiny details that matter—like ensuring a keynote speaker perfectly matches an event’s mission, or curating a post-conference follow-up plan that keeps attendees engaged long after they’ve left the venue.
Conclusion
The women on this list aren’t just names to admire from afar—they’re the ones setting the standard, pushing the industry forward, and making the kind of impact long after the lights go out and the last attendee heads home.
They’re the ones turning a blank venue into a space where ideas spark, deals get made, and communities take root. They’re the steady hands behind the scenes, making sure every detail lands just right. They’re the risk-takers, the mentors, the ones who see what’s possible before anyone else does—and then go out and make it happen.
Celebrating them is recognizing what they’ve already built and carrying that momentum forward. Supporting the next wave of women coming up in the industry. Making room at more tables. Handing out more invitations. Raising the volume of voices that need to be heard.
So, as we wrap this up, here’s a thought: who’s a woman in the events world that’s inspired you? Send them this post. Shoot them a message. Let them know their work matters. Because at the end of the day, the best way to honor the people shaping this industry is to make sure they know they’re seen.
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About the Author / Adedoyin
