After a nine-month search, Meeting Professionals International last week named Paul Van Deventer as its new president and CEO.
Van Deventer most recently was a vice president in the health and wellness division of Walgreens, the largest drugstore chain in the US, where he managed revenue generation and client retention for Walgreens’ employer-focused health care solutions.
Before that, he spent 22 years with American Express. In his role as Amex senior director of multinational sales and operations he led a $350 million business unit with 50 business travel customer service centers, 500 employees, and a meetings and events group focused on the automotive industry.
Van Deventer replaces former MPI president and CEO Bruce MacMillan, who stepped down in June after six years.
Van Deventer said he is excited to be returning to his meetings and travel roots "to invigorate and engage MPI members, and expand MPI’s global reach and role as an industry advocate."
In his new role he will be responsible for managing MPI’s operating budget, overseeing all membership programs and services, and working closely with MPI’s Board of Directors and the MPI Foundation.
