DALLAS, Aug. 19, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Meeting Professionals International (MPI) has announced the selection of industry veteran Darren Temple as its new chief business development officer. In this role, Temple will lead strategic business development and global sales planning for the association. He will officially begin the role in mid-September 2014, reporting to MPI president and CEO Paul Van Deventer.
Temple has 25 years of both domestic and international experience in the meeting and event industry and joins MPI from the Dallas Convention and Visitors Bureau where he most recently served as chief sales officer. He will be responsible for strengthening MPI's relationships with industry organizations and strategic partners such as destination management organizations (DMOs), hoteliers and global suppliers. In addition, Temple will develop global sales strategies for MPI and the MPI Foundation as well as oversee MPI's sales and sales operations teams.
"Darren is a strong and well-respected leader in the global meeting and event community, and we are thrilled to have him join the MPI team," said Van Deventer. "We conducted an extensive search to find the right sales leader for our association and firmly believe his proven track record in global sales and commitment to our industry will be valuable assets as we continue to transform and strengthen MPI."
Previously, Temple worked as a senior sales executive for both PSAV Presentation Services and Freeman. During his 19 year tenure with Freeman, he held various leadership roles including senior vice president, branch sales; senior vice president, sales administration; and senior vice president, sales – Freeman Audio Visual.
"I am very excited to join the MPI team and make a contribution to an organization that I have been so passionate about for so many years. I look forward to leveraging my experiences and relationships in this incredible industry as we take MPI to the next level. As our industry continues to change and evolve, we have a phenomenal opportunity for growth and I am honored to be part of the leadership team," said Temple.
Based in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, Temple has been a longtime member of MPI for 15 years and a member of the MPI Board of Directors (2012-2014).
About MPI
Meeting Professionals International (MPI) is the largest and most vibrant global meeting and event industry association. The organization provides innovative and relevant education, networking opportunities and business exchanges, and acts as a prominent voice for the promotion and growth of the industry. MPI membership is comprised of approximately 18,500 members belonging to 70 chapters and clubs worldwide. For additional information or to join, visit www.mpiweb.org.
A photo accompanying this release is available at: http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=27168
