CHICAGO — This year’s Trade Show Executive (TSE) Pioneers are a group of innovative and influential industry professionals who are making significant contributions to their organizations. EAST I sat down with Aliece L. Simpson, Senior Sales Operations Manager, SupplySide at Informa Markets, to learn more about her career journey, the lessons she’s learned, and what she’s looking forward to in the trade show industry.
Q: How did you get started in the trade show industry?
I started at Informa Markets in December 2021. Previously, I worked in sales and attended trade shows to help sell and spread the word about our products. I enjoyed the opportunity to network and bring people together for a common cause. When I had the opportunity to work in operations with SupplySide, it sparked my love for networking at trade shows, and I love being part of the team that brings it all to life.
Q: What attracted you most at the time and what interests you most today in your work?
I bring both sales and operations experience to my role and this allows me to think from both perspectives, which helps me better serve my team.
Q: What was one of the most important lessons you learned during your career?
Show up each day with intention and passion for your goal. Leave the rest to God.
Q: What or who inspires you to strive for excellence?
My mother passed away from breast cancer when I was only 23 years old. I was a young single mother and not being able to ask her for advice on motherhood and career choices was very difficult. However, she was an incredible role model for me growing up and instilled in me the value of hard work and doing your job with passion and excellence. I will always be indebted to her for the woman she taught me to become.
Related. Meet the TSE 2024 Pioneers: Kim Sillo
Q: What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?
Leading a thriving sales office at SupplySide West while 32 weeks pregnant is definitely my proudest moment. It was my first experience overseeing the sales office, and stepping into it without having attended an event beforehand was both intimidating and exciting. Maintaining my composure and professionalism amidst the hustle and bustle, whether it was maneuvering around the sales floor or enduring long hours on my feet during my third trimester, felt like a significant accomplishment.
Q: How do you define success?
For me, success means good health, strong relationships, and living my life with joy and gratitude every day.
Q: What aspects of the future of this industry interest you? Why?
I love our SupplySide East and West shows, where I can learn about the latest innovations in the health and nutrition industry. Discovering the keys to health through dietary supplements, food and beverages is essential, and the innovative and collaborative spirit of the trade show industry makes it an exciting environment to be a part of, whether as an attendee, exhibitor or organizer.
Q: Any advice for other newcomers?
Whether it’s through formal education, self-study, attending workshops or conferences, finding a mentor, or exploring new hobbies and interests, never stop learning and growing. It’s one of the most valuable investments you can make in yourself and your future.
Nominator Quote: “Aliece has led the way in SupplySide’s sales operations since the day she joined the company. One of the primary responsibilities of her role is to lead the exhibitor booking process for SupplySide West. Aliece has demonstrated exceptional leadership and execution, resulting in a 70% appointment success rate and a floor plan that was 83% sold for 2024 at the close of our 2023 show,” said Danice Cullins, Senior Vice President of SupplySide. “Aliece handles this pressure with absolute grace and confidence.”
Find out more about all the Trailblazers in the June issue of TSE.