Multinationanal events company Informa has announced that it will combine its regional business in Asia with UBM, with Jime Essink assuming the president role of the enlarged UBM Asia entity.

He will oversee the UBM Sinoexpo and UBM Asean businesses during the transitional period over the next 12 months before passing on the baton to Margaret Ma Connolly who will be the CEO of UBM Asia as part of the leadership changes.

Currently the MD of UBM China, Connolly will look after the portfolio of UBM in Mainland China, Japan, India, Korea and Taiwan immediately, besides overseeing the merger of Informa. She is expected to assume responsibility for the full UBM Asia business starting July next year.

Among others who are involved in the leadership shuffle include David Bondi, current head of Informa's China Exhibitions business who was named vice president and a board member of UBM Asia. He will have specific oversight of the jewellery and beauty businesses, as well as the enlarged UBM China business.

Meanwhile, Michael Duck, currently EVP of UBM Asia will have an additional role as group chief representative in China which extends to all Informa's businesses in China. He will also take up additional responsibilities from UBM Sinoexpo.

Meanwhile, Athena Gong is promoted to MD of UBM China, reporting to Bondi, from her current role as GM of CBME (Children-Baby-Maternity-Expo) portfolio.

Speaking on the merger, Essink said the it strengthens the position of the two entities in the region. "UBM Asia has a long track record of delivering business growth and outstanding events for our customers," he said.

On Connolly's promotion, Essink said: "Margaret has an outstanding track record and is a respected and confident leader, having built UBM China into one of the country's leading exhibitions business over the last nine years. She is ideally placed to take up the role as CEO of UBM Asua, and I am confident that under her leadership, the business will continue to grow and fluorish."

For more information, please check: campaignasia.com/article/informa-merges-with-ubm-asia/…