Paul Flackett, IMEX Group, Managing Director has passed away.
Ray Bloom, Chairman, IMEX Group said, “Long-time colleague, Paul Flackett had been ill for many years and he lost his fight last night after a difficult few months. Paul has been by my side as a friend and in business for over 30 years and was an inspiration to us all in how he conducted himself throughout his career, in particular the humour he brought to us all. I know that many of you were also very close to him.
His family has not yet had the opportunity to think about arrangements for the coming days and weeks, but once I know more we will keep you updated.
I know that he will be greatly missed by all who knew him and our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Paul has worked in the meetings and incentive travel industry for over 30 years in various formats. He joined Ray Bloom in 1987 to launch EIBTM the following year in Geneva. Flackett left EIBTM in 1999 to set up his own consultancy “PF.REDSEVEN”. He also gained the CITE qualification in 1994.
In 2001 he linked up again with Ray Bloom to start IMEX in Frankfurt with the first show taking place in 2003. This business partnership is now working on its third show together - IMEX America.
Flackett has been a member of SITE (Society of Incentive Travel Executives) since 1988 and served as President of SITE International in 1995 and as SITE Foundation President in 2002. He is a previous Chancellor for MPI and has served as Vice Chairman of the Destinations International European Advisory Council. He has also undertaken various roles for ICCA (International Congress and Convention Association).
In recognition of his exceptional contribution to the meetings industry in 2004 he was presented with the Moises Shuster award from ICCA. Flackett has spoken – and continues to speak - around the world on industry related topics in various destinations such as Colombia, North America, Australia, New Zealand , Croatia , Germany, Thailand, Indonesia, Dubai and Bahrain.
In 2011 He assisted in the launch of IMEX America in Las Vegas. Flackett has helped both IMEX Frankfurt and IMEX America develop into the two leading global trade shows for the industry represented
