Strategic appointments signal IABM’s drive to boost engagement & growth

IABM, the International Trade Association for Broadcast & Media industry, is highlighting its focus on engagement and community with three key appointments: Ana-Claire Bernardes is promoted to the newly created role of Global Head Member Engagement; Michelle Kelly joins as IABM Head of Member Engagement & Growth for North America; and, Sushant Rai takes the same role for the Asia-Pacific region.

Josh Arensberg, Chair of IABM Board, said, “In these rapidly changing times for our industry, we need all the support, information and understanding we can get. As an association, we are taking great steps to drive engagement, putting value creation for our members at the heart of everything we do. 

“Ana-Claire, Michelle and Sushant are very experienced leaders, and I am delighted they will be joining us to ensure every member — and potential member — gets the most out of our community.”

Michelle and Sushant will report to Ana-Claire Bernardes, who initially joined IABM as an analyst nearly three years ago, before moving to lead IABM’s Global Engaged Partner Programme (GEP).

Michelle Kelly joins IABM after a long career at NAB as SVP of NAB Show where she was responsible for marketing and insight around events. Deeply immersed in the media industry, she brings an intimate understanding of the challenges facing the industry today.

Sushant Rai, too, brings the experience and understanding drawn from a long career in media to his new appointment. In building strong teams across the region, and achieving significant sales success, he is a very well-known figure on both sides of the supply chain, with excellent contacts and market knowledge.

Saleha Williams, CEO, IABM, added, “I joined the association at the beginning of the year, under a mandate from the board and membership, to revitalise and modernise, to build connections, to share knowledge and above all to ensure that the voice of the members is clearly heard.

“Part of my strategy was to ensure that we have the best possible reach around the world. Having great people who can engage with the industry on its own terms, and in its own territory, as well as working closely with our IABM Regional Councils, is a vital part of that … and I am delighted to promote Ana-Claire and welcome Michelle and Sushant into Ana-Claire’s team.”