Emerald, a business-to-business platform producer of trade shows, events, conferences and marketing solutions announced the appointment of Jason C. McGraw, CTS, CAE as vice rresident responsible for the oversight of the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (owned by the National Kitchen and Bath Association) and CEDIA Expo. Additionally, Emerald announced the newly created position of Director, Key Accounts – KBIS and CEDIA Expo, to be assumed by Amy Hornby.

With these organizational changes KBIS and CEDIA Expo put in place a strong cohesive cross-marketing strategy that will strengthen the convergence of the design/build markets and custom electronics to facilitate opportunities to integrate programs and platforms for exhibitors and attendees.

McGraw will also be responsible for working collaboratively with association partners at NKBA, NAHB and CEDIA, as well as to identify and nurture new cooperative opportunities in existing, new and adjacent markets.

Hornby will have responsibility for more than 25 key accounts who currently participate (or may have an interest in participating) at CEDIA Expo and KBIS. She will work closely with these accounts to assist with the development of new “go to market strategy” opportunities, leveraging KBIS and CEDIA Expo platforms to build custom solutions for maximum results.

“KBIS and CEDIA Expo are uniquely positioned to leverage its position in the design/build and custom electronics spaces to bring collaborative programming and experiences to exhibitors and attendees,” said Brian Pagel, EVP, construction, medical and military, Emerald. “As the residential design and construction market continues to embrace integrated whole technology, we can make the connections between brands, integrators, design and construction professionals unlike any others. We are blessed that both Amy and Jason share deep knowledge of and strong relationships with each of these sectors. Most importantly, this is a win for the industry.”

With over 33 years of experience in both for-profit and not-for-profit conference and exposition management, McGraw most recently served as Senior Vice President of Expositions and Event Services for AVIXA, the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association, where he led InfoComm, the professional audiovisual industry’s largest annual exposition held in the Western Hemisphere. InfoComm 2018 marked his 25 annual InfoComm show.

Jason has broad experience with leading all facets of B2B trade events. In addition to his many years leading the InfoComm show, he worked on other significant industry events including his time as Vice President of Expositions for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) leading the

CONEXPO-CON/AGG ’99 show and as Senior Group Director with the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) in 2000 supporting The International Builders’ Show®. He also launched and managed international shows held in China, Europe, Japan, Mexico and Singapore including the Integrated Systems Europe, InfoComm Asia and InfoComm China exhibitions.

"The convergence of technologies and design within the home and resimercial markets creates exciting possibilities for enhanced living, work from home, entertainment, comfort and wellness.  I'm delighted to support the CEDIA Expo and KBIS teams that provide the ultimate event opportunities to serve professionals and the business channel in these dynamic marketplaces,” said McGraw. "The future is bright for the industry and while events may be virtual at the moment due to the pandemic, the value for exhibitors, attendees and stakeholders to meet, learn and conduct business is essential."