Meeting Professionals International (MPI) has announced the appointment of its new chief operating officer after a comprehensive search.
Cynthia (Cindy) D’Aoust will report directly to the organization’s president and CEO, Bruce MacMillan, and will lead operational deployment of MPI 3.0, MPI’s strategic business plan, through key business units of the organization.
D’Aoust brings over 20 years of leadership experience to MPI. She has held key positions in business development, project and operations management and business intelligence with Maxvantage (the strategic alliance between Maritz Travel Company and American Express) and with the Maritz Travel Company – Meetings, Events and Incentives Division.
A recognized expert on business solutions and trends in the meetings industry, she is frequently asked to speak publicly at industry conferences, serve on panels and conduct education sessions focused on strategic meetings management. She has been published in several leading publications, including Future Pharmaceuticals, Business Travel News and Business Travel World and profiled in One+ Magazine.
“Cindy’s leadership track record of creating value for customers and stakeholders is unparalleled,” said MacMillan. “Her familiarity with key business and professional development trends in our industry will allow MPI to accelerate effective implementation of our education and certification program.”
In her most recent position, D’Aoust was vice president of shared services with Maxvantage.
“Maxvantage, Maritz Travel and American Express are focused on innovating meetings planning and management and have always been staunch supporters of MPI’s industry efforts,” said Steve O’Malley, general manager, Maxvantage. “We are supportive of Cindy and look forward to experience what is to come in our continued, collaborative efforts.”
D’Aoust has been active throughout the travel and meetings industry throughout her career including with the Global Business Travel Association and an active member of Meeting Professionals International, most recently serving on its International Board of Directors.
“My clients, peers, colleagues and friends have provided me a wealth of opportunity, experiences and fond memories over my career,” said D’Aoust. “This move was an easy choice to make knowing that they are all behind me and rooting for me and MPI. Our mutual objectives haven’t changed, just the opportunity for me to play a more focused role in identifying and developing the next chapter for the meetings industry.”
D’Aoust will be relocating her family from Philadelphia to Dallas and will begin her position with MPI on April 9, 2012.
