Cover Story
January 2022
In Conversation With Igor Palka, MD, VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacic Co. Ltd. “Efciency and precision have driven me for a very long time based on my German origin, with a growing pinch of exibility on processes and procedures, which I’ve particularly learned in India. So artistically, the Taj Mahal is a beautiful and meaningful symbol for me as it represents not only some of my core values but also reminds me of my exciting time in India, where I grew personally and professionally a lot.” ES. As the new Managing Director for VNU's business in Southeast Asia, how are you planning for your onboarding process and what are your goals and vision for the company? Igor Palka. Due to the current restrictions, I am having a hybrid onboarding process, firstly digitally with all internal stakeholders and team members and from the second week onwards in face-to-face meetings. For me, it is of huge importance to understand the regional and cultural differences and opportunities very fast by talking with my team and clients. Additionally, I want to get to know everyone very quickly and come up with new ideas and and a clear direction for the company as a guidance for the team. Ultimately, the short-term goals are to bring the trade fairs on the showfloor again, understanding the current and future requirements and wishes of our clients and in the mid- and longterm growing our existing shows by size and the organization by adding more to the entire portfolio. ES. Please tell us about your introduction to the exhibition industry. Can you share with us the experiences and achievements that shaped your journey as a successful leader within this industry? Igor Palka. Simply put, I’ve been only working in the exhibition industry so far. After graduating from school I ended up as a student with one leading German trade fair organizer where I had the chance to get to know the beauty and diversity of trade shows. With the same organization, for which I worked in total almost 18 years, I had the chance to travel, work abroad and in several different industry sectors, meet many
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