Interbike, producer of the International Bicycle Expo and OutDoor Demo trade only events, today announced Andy Tompkins has been appointed its show director. Lance Camisasca of Lifeboat Solutions (Interbike's industry consultant), will continue to manage Interbike's bicycle advocacy efforts and provide key input and guidance to Tompkins and Joe Flynn on the strategic development of Interbike shows.
Tompkins has been with Nielsen Business Media's Sports Group for more than 10 years in a variety of senior sales and show management positions, most recently as the show director for Action Sports Retailer (ASR), the leading action sports apparel, footwear, accessories and hard goods trade show in North America. Prior to that, Tompkins was show director for Nielsen owned Outdoor Retailer (OR), the leading outdoor sports trade shows and adjoining demos in the world.
“Andy is a consummate specialty sports trade show professional,” said Flynn, vice president of marketing and business development for Nielsen Business Media's Retail Group, which includes Interbike. “He has a deep understanding of the sports retail and brand landscape, as well as the needs of exhibitors and specialty retailers as they participate in trade shows.”
Tompkins fills the vacancy left by Camisasca who left Interbike in January to form Lifeboat Solutions and began a consulting agreement with Interbike. Tomkins will work together with Camisasca and Flynn in their efforts to ensure that the International Bicycle Expo, OutDoor Demo and OutDoor Demo East meet the business needs of show partners, attendees and exhibitors.
“I've known Andy for quite some time now,” Camisasca said. “He consistently impresses me with his hard work, strong business sense and passionate efforts towards the events he oversees. I am confident he will demonstrate the same work ethic directing day-to-day efforts for Interbike and the cycling community, and I look forward to working closely with him and introducing him to the cycling industry.”
Effective immediately, Tompkins' new title is Group Show Director for the ASR, Cycling and Fitness Groups. In addition to serving as show director for Interbike, Tompkins has been tapped as the new show director for the Health+Fitness Business Expo, a retail fitness industry business-to-business trade event, another event previously managed by Camisasca. Tompkins will also continue to serve as show director for ASR.
