The Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association (AVIXA) has named Marco Pardi CEO, effective Jan. 1, 2027. He succeeds David Labuskes, who retires Dec. 31 after 14 years leading the association.
Pardi joins AVIXA from Informa, where he served as president of its Tech Events portfolio. He oversaw live and on-demand events, digital marketing services, and training for the information technology and healthcare industries.
His responsibilities also included leading more than 200 employees across North America, Europe, and Asia. The portfolio included The AI Summit, Channel Partners Expo, Data Center World, HIMSS Global Conference, and other technology events.
FROM TECH EVENTS TO ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP
Pardi brings more than 25 years of experience in business-to-business technology events and professional communities. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of California, Berkeley.
“It’s clear that Marco sees this as an opportunity not just to develop a business, but to represent our industry and advocate for the outcomes it delivers to the wider world,” said Tobias Lang, AVIXA’s board chair.
The appointment follows a 12-month search that drew more than 100 candidates worldwide. Mradul Sharma, the board’s vice chair, led the search committee, with support from consulting firm Korn Ferry.
According to Lang, the committee considered Pardi’s experience leading international teams, growing revenue, and serving technology industries.
“AVIXA doesn’t just provide connections and information; it enables AV companies to be more successful and helps AV people be the best at what they do,” Pardi said.
A TRANSITION AFTER 14 YEARS
Meanwhile, Labuskes will conclude a tenure that included the association’s name change from InfoComm International to AVIXA. He also oversaw the rebuilding of its core activities following the COVID-19 pandemic and changes to its governance and leadership selection processes.
Under his leadership, AVIXA introduced the Audiovisual Network Professional accreditation, the monthly Pro AV Business Index, and the AVIXA TV video platform.
More recently, the association added “Broadcast AV: Glass to Glass,” a course covering the overlap among audiovisual work, enterprise broadcasting, live event production, and media asset management.
Pardi will now take responsibility for an association whose activities span tradeshows, professional education, industry research, and certification.
“To lead AVIXA is to lead an industry that changes the way people experience the world, and I cannot wait to get started,” Pardi said.
Established in 1939, AVIXA represents the audiovisual industry, produces InfoComm tradeshows worldwide, and co-owns Integrated Systems Europe. The association provides standards, certification, training, research, and professional networking. For more information, visit avixa.org.
Press release submitted by AVIXA. Edited by Exhibit City News for clarity, length, and style.
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