|

Exciting changes at Newport Exhibition Group

Newport Exhibition Group

Jan 11, 2022

Newport Exhibition Group, owners and producers of the Newport International Boat Show (NIBS), announced that after leading the Show for over two decades, Nancy Piffard, show director, is retiring. Desiring a continuity of leadership, Lisa Knowles, who has been the Show’s senior sales manager, has been promoted to replace Piffard. To ensure a streamlined transition Piffard will continue in a consulting role through early spring.

“After celebrating NIBS’ 50th Anniversary, it felt like the right time for me to leave the Show in the team’s capable hands,” said Piffard. “To everyone I have worked with, my co-workers, exhibitors, sponsors, and partners, I want to thank you for your trust and confidence in me over the years. I have met so many amazing people in the marine industry who I will truly miss seeing every September. I know that Lisa will do an excellent job at the helm.”

During her tenure, Piffard has received numerous accolades. Recently, she was recognized as a 2021 Women of Distinction honoree by the Newport Chamber of Commerce, and in 2019 one of Boating Industry’s Women Making Waves. In 2017, Piffard and her team were awarded the Rhode Island Marine Trade Association (RIMTA)’s Anchor Award – as outstanding advocates in the promotion of Rhode Island’s marine industry. Piffard will leave behind a legacy in the form of the creation of the Newport For New Products award program over 15 years ago and she was instrumental in bringing in-water training to the Show.

“I am grateful for all that Nancy has brought to the show over the years,” said Knowles. “She has been a fantastic leader, mentor and friend and we wish her all the best in her much-deserved retirement.”

Knowles has been working with exhibitors for 25 years and during that time has developed a strong, trusting relationship with them. She has an in-depth understanding of the marine industry and that knowledge, combined with her experience in site design and operations made her the perfect person to take over the reins. In her early days, Knowles managed the show offices for the Newport Spring Boat Show and the Newport International Boat Show, and soon advanced to senior sales manager for these events, as well as the Providence Boat Show and the Newport Charter Yacht Show.

In addition to Piffard’s retirement and Knowles’ promotion, Michea Kiely, account executive, will take on an increased sales role, and marketing director Jocelyn Emory will continue to lead NIBS’ marketing and communications strategy. While this is her fifth year with this all-women-led team, Emory’s experience spans over 15 years in the marketing field. Emory will also oversee show programming such as the Newport For New Products awards program, the Edson Star Awards, in-water training courses and seminars. An integral part of the team for many years, Gail Lowney Alofsin will continue her important role of obtaining show sponsors and partners to enhance the boat show experience. In addition, Colleen Hopkins will join the team as an event and sales assistant. Hopkins is a true professional with proven success in the development, management and execution of high-profile events and corporate partnerships, locally, nationally and abroad.

Next year’s Show dates are September 15 through 18, 2022. For more information on the Newport International Boat Show, please visit www.newportboatshow.com.

 

Related Posts





Vote for Dorothy, BC’s Iconic Sailing Yacht, in the Classic Boat Awards 2024

CMRA

You are invited to support an historic, recently restored and refitted BC sailboat, Dorothy, by voting for her in a contest, the Classic Boat Awards 2024, run by the UK’s prestigious Classic Boat Magazine. The Maritime Museum of BC (MMBC), owner of this sleek, wooden vessel built in 1897, believes she’s the oldest sailboat in Canada. As she isn’t the only classic yacht in the running, you’re urged to go online and vote for her in the category of Restored Sailing Vessel under 40ft.

Read More




Need to Catch up on News This Week?

Every Tuesday we publish a fresh Digest with informative articles pertaining to the Canadian boating and marine industry. Stay up to date with the latest products, research and industry developments.

Missed an Issue of Boating Industry Canada News Week? If you’re looking for a specific issue, or simply want to catch up on previous issues, check out our Boating Industry Canada News Week Archives.

Not signed up for News Week? Subscribe here.



Even more BALIs at BALI

CATANA GROUP launches its 14th BALI CATAMARANS model, the BALI 5.8, for the brand’s 10th anniversary! Always bigger, always more powerful, always more… BALI!

This time, the new BALI 5.8 is completing the range from the top down.

Read More


Water heater offers dynamic heat source choices

Hubbell-Marine Stainless steel outlet covers
Hubbell-Marine Stainless steel outlet covers

After a long day on the water, having ample supplies of hot water for multiple showers and meal preparation is a welcome luxury. The 1700 Series Marine Water Heater from Raritan Engineering was created specifically for marine use. With a proven long-life design, it’s available with a 115V AC or 240V AC heating element, and the option to include an innovative heat exchanger that uses the vessel’s hot engine coolant.

Read More