Phil Soar, chairman of Waypoint Exhibitions was elected as Chairman of the Association of Event Organisers (AEO), succeeding Brenda Daly who stepped down when she left dmg world media in July.

Soar takes AEO hot seat

"I am honoured to take over the chairmanship of the AEO at a time of transition as the association focuses down on the issues that really matter to members. In the next 12 months the AEO will make promoting the industry its priority, driving activity through EIA that influences the people who spend money on events," said Soar. "We have more networking opportunities coming up and will continue to make AEO the hub for the industry to meet, establish best practice, share ideas and do business. We will continue to work on services that deliver value to our members. And we will look to grow membership to expand our community.'

Chris Hughes, director of Brand Events who took up the AEO chairmanship on an interim basis until a new chairman was elected, resumes his position as Vice Chairman of the association.