Sonia Thomas leads Women in Exhibitions Network

Women in Exhibitions Network (WIEN) has appointed Sonia Thomas as the first Executive Director of the global women’s group. Thomas has been deeply involved in the management of global associations for over twenty years, most recently as the COO of UFI. With sponsorship support from several industry organizations, including MAD Event Management LLC, Messe Düsseldorf North America, and Visit Detroit, the newly created position will allow WIEN to expand and evolve. WIEN founder Oana Cipca says: “The next chapter of Women in Exhibitions Network will be about building from our strengths and centering our voices to re-invent our impact in a changing industry. As our network faces the challenges and opportunities ahead, we are happy to have our new Executive Director Sonia Thomas officially represent this community. I always admired Sonia for her collaborative leadership style, commitment to women in our industry and her proven record. We are proud that she is taking this role and working with us on bringing the Women in Exhibitions Network forward.”

‘Men have a role to play here too’

Thomas comments on her appointment: “I am delighted to assume this new role as Executive Director. I have deep admiration for Oana and the other women involved, and everything they have achieved so far. I aim to build on that strong foundation, and my priorities will be to grow and enhance the network. I truly believe that the exhibition industry has a precious and sometimes untapped resource in the talented women that are part of it. Some progress has been made, but there is still work to be done. And of course, men have a role to play here too in increasing female representation and in fostering diversity and inclusion”. Women in Exhibitions Network was officially launched in 2018 with the aim of supporting the continued professional development of women working in exhibitions and providing opportunities for them to meet and network. There are currently six international chapters operating, with new ones expected to form in 2023.