Claire Kilcoyne

About Claire Kilcoyne

For nearly 30 years, I\'ve had the pleasure of producing METALCON, an international tradeshow and conference produced by PSMJ Resources. What I enjoy most about my work is the people. Building long-lasting relationships is the foundation of my approach to business and maintaining those relationships-be it speakers, exhibitors, contractors, media or event staff-is what makes our show the most successful and largest international event in the metal construction industry. I began my career with PSMJ in tradeshow sales. After four years, I had the opportunity to devote all of my energy to one show. As VP of Tradeshows, I launched METALCON in 1991 and despite tough economic times, it was a huge success because of the demand in the metal construction industry for a new and innovative event. This was the beginning of developing those partnerships and relationships that have carried us through the years. Today, more than 50 associations, 25 media outlets and 500 manufacturers support the event. In addition, nearly metal construction professionals attend METALCON each year. The most exciting part for me personally, was the addition of METALCON\'s \'giving back program\' launched in 1994. With each show, we give back to the local community by demonstrating the use of metal products, typically in the form of a metal housing structure to benefit a local charity, i.e. Habitat for Humanity. Not only does it provide us the opportunity to thank the community hosting our show, we are able to help those in need-again, building relationships. I\'m always working on new ideas for innovative, live and interactive additions to the show each year. I coordinate a tight-knit team of top-notch people to handle event logistics from start to finish. My motto is work hard and play hard. With that, we get the job done and have fun doing it. Additionally, working with an entrepreneurial CEO like Frank Stasiowski, the possibilities for creativity and growth are limitless.

Experience

1. Vice President Tradeshows

   Metalcon

   Nov 1985 — Present · Newton, MA, US

   As the VP of Tradeshows, I am responsible for the organizational leadership of a top-notch team in the planning and execution of the largest, international event in the metal construction industry.I establish the annual budget and forecasts; create and maintain integrated timelines to coordinate pre-event logistics, show design/set-up, transportation, security, and allocation of services; and create strategic plans to achieve revenue goals by generating new ideas/formats.Having extensive experience in vendor relations and business partnership development to gain involvement, I maintain strong relationships with associations, exhibitors, and speakers while serving as the primary point person for our partnering association. I manage and approve negotiating contract agreements with facilities, hotels, vendors, etc.In addition, I oversee the management of floor plans, layout changes, related booth regulations, vendor issues and overall communication regarding operations with clients. I work with the general contractor to create show decor, signage and all on-site show elements. Together with my team, I create and implement sales and marketing strategies, including the design and production of marketing collateral and advertising campaigns. I manage media relations and leverage sponsorship opportunities to increase METALCON\'s public profile and generate revenue. Most importantly, I maintain effective communication with people at all levels of business and management, ensuring communication is clear, concise and consistent with show guidelines.

Education

• Clinton High School

  College-bound course work

• Assumption University

  Bachelor of Arts (BA), Major in French with a Minor in Fine Arts

  1975 — 1979

• Boston College

  Masters, French

  1979 — 1981

Skills

• Public Relations
• Direct Marketing
• Integrated Marketing
• Event Management
• New Business Development
• Marketing Communications
• Marketing Strategy
• Graphic Design
• Email Marketing
• Marketing
• Corporate Events
• Sales
• Sponsorship Sales
• Event Planning
• Trade Shows