The Expo Group, Architects Connecting CommunitiesSM, announces the appointment of Chris Cavanaugh as President, Corporate. Cavanaugh is charged with shaping corporate growth strategy, demonstrating The Expo Group’s commitment to architecting events and leading the next evolution of experiential marketing through bold acquisitions, expanded capabilities, and relentless innovation.
The move comes as experiential marketing emerges as a business imperative. In an era of digital intelligence and increasing online noise, the brands that are poised to win are those that create authentic human connections at trade shows, corporate events, and in-person experiences.
“Chris is a rare combination of visionary and operator,” said Randy Pekowski, CEO of The Expo Group. “With 30 years building brands and scaling businesses across experiential marketing, exhibitions, and marketing services, he knows how to create enterprise value. More importantly, he knows where this industry is going. Chris’s expertise will position The Expo Group for its next phase of growth and expansion of our experiential marketing platform.”
Cavanaugh brings a perspective shaped by leading some of the most respected organizations in the industry. As CEO of The Imagine Group, a leading provider of creative, print, and digital solutions, he transformed the business for its next phase of growth. As CMO of Freeman, one of the world’s largest brand experience companies, he drove global brand strategy through significant expansion. Earlier, he held senior leadership roles at Jack Morton, one of the world’s premier experiential agencies. He also founded Jumpstart Consulting, advising private equity firms and executive teams on growth strategy and acquisitions.
“Audiences expect more, and brands that show up with richer, more relevant experiences earn their trust,” said Cavanaugh. “As digital technologies and data continue to transform how organizations engage audiences, the demand for authentic, in-person experiences continues to grow and deliver measurable business outcomes. The strongest experiential strategies combine data and insights with meaningful human connections, enhancing and personalizing the experience.”
In his new role, Cavanaugh will oversee corporate development, brand marketing, acquisition integration, and the company’s expansion strategy, growing The Expo Group’s experiential marketing platform, while shaping the client strategies that turn events and experiences into measurable business results.
Author: Kizzy Allott
Kizzy Allott is Publisher at Event Industry News, where she has been a driving force behind the brand for over a decade. With a deep understanding of the events sector and a passion for storytelling, Kizzy leads the platform’s commercial and content strategy, connecting the industry through news, insights, and meaningful conversations. She is dedicated to championing innovation, amplifying industry voices, and ensuring event professionals stay informed, inspired, and future-focused.
