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Press Release

Smithbucklin Announces Leadership Changes in Event and Education Services Units

June 20, 2024

Chicago — Smithbucklin, a professional services company that works with non-profits and industry associations, announced leadership changes in its Event Services and Education and Learning Services practices. These changes, designed to spur growth and innovation, will take effect on July 1, 2024.

Jeff Calore will be promoted to vice president and will lead Smithbucklin's Event Services business. His experience in event design, strategy, and business management, and his in-depth understanding of association operations creates impact, growth, and value for our clients. He is a trusted collaborator and a respected partner in the events industry and association community. Prior to joining Smithbucklin, Jeff served as senior vice president of the National Restaurant Association and National Restaurant Association Show, leading the association's supplier partnerships and non-dues revenue teams. 

Julie Ferry will be promoted to senior director and will continue her role as portfolio director in Event Services. Julie has been with Smithbucklin for 25 years, working in various capacities including membership, operations, and education. She offers strategic guidance to associations to help them grow their events. Julie also holds a Digital Events Strategist (DES) designation, which highlights her expertise in managing live stream, virtual, digital, and hybrid events to attract and engage audiences and enhance event profitability.

Jerry Murphy will be promoted to senior director while continuing his role as portfolio director in Event Services. Jerry leads a team responsible for the strategy, development, delivery, and impact of client events, meetings, and tradeshows. He brings experience in event execution, particularly in the scientific and healthcare sectors. He counsels clients on event profitability leveraging his background in customer experience and business operations and focuses on improving event delivery and client satisfaction. 

Peter Finn will expand his role to become the head of Education and Learning Services. Currently the executive director of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), Peter’s background in professional association education, including prior roles at the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), gives him unique perspective on adult learning for association members. Peter focuses on driving growth, innovation, and impact by focusing on the opportunities, solutions, and trends that are unique to professional associations. 

"We are thrilled about the changes to our leadership team and confident in the team’s ability to drive change and enable growth for our clients," said Smithbucklin President & CEO Matt Sanderson. "Their collective skills and commitment set us up for ongoing success in creating outstanding events and educational experiences."

About Smithbucklin

Smithbucklin is a leading professional services company serving non-profits and industry associations. Through full-service management, meetings, sales, and strategic marketing solutions, we unlock the power of human networks that move every industry, field and profession forward. Learn more.

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