The search for IAAPA Europe’s new executive director is over. The association has appointed from within and appointed former deputy director for Europe Karen Staley (pictured).
Due to start in the role on January 1, Staley will lead IAAPA’s efforts to expand and enhance its services in Europe, replacing Andreas Andersen, who is leaving to become the new CEO of Liseberg in Sweden. Staley will oversee government relations, communications, membership development, education, as well as continuing to work on the Euro Attractions Show.
Staley started at IAAPA in 2004 as manager of marketing and sales for IAAPA’s conference and trade shows in the United States, Europe and Asia. In 2006, she assumed the role of operations manager for IAAPA Europe and the Euro Attractions Show (EAS). She was promoted to director of operations in 2008 and was named deputy director of IAAPA Europe in 2009.
Boasting a degree and masters degree from colleges in Maryland, USA, Staley grew up in Germany and speaks fluent German, as well as conversational French. She will now relocate to Germany as she takes on the new role.
