On Aug. 6, a more than 30-year sales veteran announced his retirement from GES (Global Experience Specialists), which creates experiences for marketers, exhibition organizers and event attendees.
From the Dallas, Texas office, Tom Merrill worked as vice president of business development.
“My career with GES was one of the greatest jobs ever, and I’m indebted to the wonderful people I worked with along the way,” said Merrill. “I’ll take a few months off to decompress and enjoy my family. There is always more than enough to do at the Merrillwood Ranch. Working with our horses and spending some time sailing are definitely on the list. After that, who knows? I’m not one who can sit still for too long.”
When asked to join the company, Merrill was unsure, citing his lack of sales experience or desire to sell. After convincing him that the job was less about sales and more about consulting and creative development, he agreed and went on to win sales awards year-after-year. One of his first clients, Bell Helicopter launched his interest in aerospace and defense, which blossomed into a specialty.
During his career, Merrill supported global event marketing programs for aerospace, defense, telecommunications and packaging clients, including Bell Helicopter, Boeing, General Dynamics, Lockheed Martin, Nortel, Textron and Tetra Pak.
Merrill presented educational programs at EXHIBITOR and helped his clients win several Best of Show, Sizzle and EX awards as well as a Gold Stevie and TSEA Focus award. In 2012, he received a Platinum Level Presidents award from GES for his efforts in international program development for Bell Helicopter.
His experience extends into experiential marketing events, product launches, global program management and program strategy. Merrill cites working with clients on the creative and planning process and international experience as his favorite parts of the business.
He grew up in Michigan and attended Ferris State University.
