After a months-long search, the High Point Market Authority (HPMA) board of directors has appointed trade show executive Tom Conley to the post of president and CEO. He replaces Brian Casey, who left the Market Authority in the spring.
“We are very pleased to have someone of Tom’s caliber join the Market Authority, particularly with his extensive background in trade show management,” says HPMA chairman Kevin O’Connor of Samson Marketing. “As we move forward, the objective for the Market Authority under Tom will be to develop strategies that will make the High Point Market even better, and to expand its role as the world’s premier home furnishings market. Tom has strong experience in building trade show attendance and working with multiple constituencies to ensure success, and I know under his leadership the Market will continue to grow.”
Tom is currently the owner of TPC & Associates in Chicago, a convention and trade show services business, which he launched in 2009. Before forming his own company, Conley was president of the Toy Industry Association in New York City and headed the annual International Toy Fair trade show.
He has also held the post of president for the Steel Service Center Institute, The International Travel Management Partners, and the National Housewares Manufacturers Association, where he successfully designed and implemented new processes to improve and redefine the annual Housewares show.
