Dave Heiges

About Dave Heiges

As the Exhibitor Account Services Director at the Texas Restaurant Association, I oversee sales and client services for The Texas Restaurant Show—the state’s largest and most influential foodservice trade event. I specialize in connecting industry-leading vendors with restaurant operators looking for cutting-edge solutions in equipment, technology, food & beverage, and marketing. The 2025 Texas Restaurant Show in Houston was a standout year:• Record-breaking attendance with over 6,400 industry professionals from across the Southwest• More than 465 dynamic exhibit booths• Expanded marketing and sponsorship packages, which delivered measurable ROI for exhibitors• Launched new specialty pavilions, added a fourth education stage which increased foot traffic and engagement across the floor These achievements were the result of proactive relationship management, strategic outreach, and a customer-first approach that puts exhibitor success at the heart of everything I do. My expertise spans the full sales cycle—from lead generation, cold calling, and qualifying prospects to closing deals and ensuring retention year over year. I take a consultative sales approach, grounded in integrity and a servant-leader mindset, with a commitment to delivering value in every conversation. With advanced knowledge of CRMs including Map Your Show, Cadmium, Builder Fusion, and iMIS, I help vendors navigate their trade show strategy with ease and clarity. Prior to joining TRA, I spent 13 years with the Texas Association of Builders (TAB) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), managing and selling national and regional events such as the International Builders’ Show and Sunbelt Builders Show™, reaching audiences of I believe great customer service starts with genuine care and personal touchpoints—handwritten notes, timely follow-ups, and transparent communication. My goal is to make every exhibitor feel like a valued partner from first call to final load-out. Let’s connect if you’re looking to elevate your brand and grow your footprint in the Texas restaurant and hospitality market.

Experience

1. Exhibitor Account Services Director

   Texas Restaurant Association

   Jan 2021 — Present · Austin, TX, US

Education

• Indiana University of Pennsylvania

  Bachelor of Arts, Government & Public Services, Political Science, Personnel Administration

  1987 — 1991

• Indiana University of Pennsylvania

  BA, Public Policy/Personnel Administration

  1987 — 1991

• Fairport High School

  High School Diploma

  1983 — 1987

Skills

• Purchasing
• Management
• Team Building
• Sales
• Builders
• Residential Homes
• Public Relations
• Training
• New Business Development
• Trade Shows
• Association Management
• Negotiation
• Strategic Planning
• Account Management
• Project Planning
• Leadership
• Contractors
• Contract Negotiation
• Selling
• Nonprofits
• Public Speaking
• Sales Management
• Construction
• Social Media
• Fundraising
• Marketing Strategy
• Marketing
• Project Management
• Marketing Communications
• Real Estate Development
• Contract Management
• Renovation
• Event Management
• Event Planning
• Meeting Planning
• Construction Management
• Green Building
• Homebuilding
• Budgets
• Customer Service