Helping Associations Achieve their Mission for 25 Years
In 2020, A. Fassano & Company will celebrate 25 years of delivering value and success to our clients' exhibit and sponsorship programs. Through critical thinking and a collaborative-based approach with our clients' and their stakeholders, we have positioned ourselves as the experts in tradeshow exhibit and sponsorship sales and management.
The association community has seen tremendous change more than ever in its history over the past several decades. Building on years of experience and witnessing the landscape and economic impact of tradeshows change first-hand since 1981 Anna Fassano, CEO and Founder of A. Fassano & Company, created a new business model that went beyond what other management firms were practicing, providing a diverse and inclusive team offering superior customer service to clients and their partners and stakeholders while delivering unprecedented and measurable growth. Our team of experienced tradeshow and marketing professionals has been carefully selected from a broad spectrum of business and industry backgrounds for their professional strengths and innovative approach to the ever-evolving industry.
Longevity
A. Fassano & Company has steadily grown and thrived employing inclusiveness and diversity within our team fostering innovative ideas and empowering the entrepreneurial spirit. Most importantly we cultivate and nurture lasting relationships with our clients and throughout industry. The longevity of our relationships with clients, with which they have entrusted us spanning 10 to 25 years, is proof of our value delivering results and success.
The company today is uniquely poised to deliver the highest standards of professional tradeshow exhibit and sponsorship sales, management and fulfillment.
Our Team
We manage renowned and demanding Exhibit and Sponsorship Programs in the Association community. Consider what our team of experts can do to help your organization exceed your sales revenue and stakeholder service goals. Team members have been selected from across a broad spectrum of industry and educational backgrounds and are positioned to maximize their unique qualities and skill sets; individually contributing to a blueprint guiding logistics and specialized market research and spearheading sales. We maintain one-on-one connections with your past and present industry partners and develop relationships with prospects for the future growth of your events.
Anna Fassano, CEM
Anna Fassano, CEM - CEO and Founder of A. Fassano & Company, oversees all operations and strategic planning for clients. Anna is a Certified Exposition Manager (CEM) with over 40 years' experience in managing trade shows for non-profit organizations. She has been responsible for the sales and management of over 400+ trade shows worldwide. Anna has worked closely with many non-profit organizations developing successful programs to increase their exhibit, sponsorship, and advertising revenue. Organizations including the American Diabetes Association, the American Physical Therapy Association, the American Society of Association Executives, the National Medical Association, the American Society of Echocardiography, and the Heart Rhythm Society, among many others.
"I am passionate about spending time with my daughter!"
Deb Howley Vice President
Deborah Howley ‐ Vice President has been with the company over 20 years, bringing her personal organizational excellence (and her unique Jersey vernacular) to each association's event while delivering excellence in customer care. Deborah has been involved in every operational area within the company and continues to deliver unsurpassed customer service to our clients, as well as their customers.
"I am passionate about making people happy!"
Warren Plank In memory of 1954- 2020
Warren Richard Plank Jr. Runnemede, N.J. Warren Richard Plank, Jr., (aka Bubba, Uncle Bubba, Ricky) on December 28, 2020, of Runnemede. Age 66. Beloved brother of Deborah A. Howley and brother-in-law of Charles H. Cook. Devoted uncle to Christopher M. Howley and Jessica Anne Howley and James Wilson. Great uncle of Ryan Llewellyn, Rocco Wilson, Clara Wilson, and Christian Wilson. Preceded in death by his parents, Thelma H. (nee Milbert) and Warren R. Plank, Sr. Warren was a Director of Data Security and System Management at A. Fassano & Company for 20 years. He was a member, supporter, and webmaster of the NJ Postal History Society. He was a member of the Carriers & Local Society, US Philatelic Society, US Stamp Society, American Philatelic Society, WRTI Temple Public Radio - Philadelphia, and the International Webmaster's Guild. Bubba enjoyed playing cards, gardening, reading, listening to music, the arts, history, auctions, and stamp collecting. He especially enjoyed time spent with family and friends. To know him was to love him - everybody knew Bubba.
Arlaina Utley, CMP Director of Sponsorships & Event Marketing
Arlaina Utley, CMP ‐ Director of Sponsorships & Event Marketing With 20 years of experience in the events industry, Arlaina’s career has spanned convention service and non-profit event management, sponsorship development and fulfillment, and advertising and marketing. Since joining the AFCo team in 2013, she has continued to set the standard, leading her exceptional sponsorship team in logistical and methodical sponsorship development and superb client service. Recently, Arlaina has been promoted to Director of Sponsorships & Event Marketing and is additionally leading the marketing arm of AFCo to new heights.
"I am passionate about skiing, gardening, and creating new recipes in the kitchen all while spending time with my son!"
Meredith Turner Director, Business Development & Event Operations
Meredith Turner – Director, Business Development & Event Operations When she joined the company in 2019, Meredith brought more than 15 years’ experience as an Account Director with a marketing and sales firm, specializing in healthcare association media management. She is passionate about customer service, and skilled in all aspects of exhibit & sponsorship sales & management, however, she finds her greatest joy is at a tradeshow, witnessing the culmination of her work come to fruition and ensuring that exhibitors & sponsors have the best possible experience. These days, her primary focus involves driving business growth, providing sales projections and forecasting revenue for all of AFCo’s clients, while forging meaningful relationships with them. Meredith was an integral part of the team during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and as the entire industry faced uncertainty, her calming demeanor & problem solving skills helped AFCo shift gears from in person events, to the virtual world. Her dedication, positive outlook, and admirable poise with exhibitors, sponsors and clients never wavered. Since becoming a member of the Senior Management Team, her accomplishments include realignment of account teams & reorganization of the overall company structure, recruiting & hiring several talented individuals as the tradeshow industry roared back to life, and playing an ongoing role in the long term strategic direction of the company.
"I am passionate about cooking for friends and family!"
Debra Maines, CMP-HC, DES Senior Manager, Exhibits & Event Operations
Debra Maines, CMP-HC, DES - Senior Manager, Exhibits & Event Operations joined the company in 2015. She has been in the association management business for over 30 years as Executive Director and Director of Meetings for a wide variety of organizations. Debi is responsible for sponsorships and for exhibit logistics and will be your contact for any changes to the floorplan or fulfillment of sponsorship opportunities. Debi is very passionate about the industry and is always looking for new and innovative ideas for sponsorship and the exhibit floor. She is past President of the Greater Philadelphia Chapter of PCMA, is a recipient of the Outstanding Service to a Chapter Award and was a nominee for the 2019 PCMA Visionary Award.
"I am passionate about spending time with my grandchildren!"
Olivia Philippone Manager, Sponsorship Development & Fulfillment
Olivia Philippone, Manager, Sponsorship Development & Events, obtained her MBA at Point Park University in her home city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She spent the first two years of her career with a nonprofit organization, where she gained experience in event coordination and sponsorship development. She brings a multifaceted skill set to A. Fassano & Company through her education and prior experiences, and she thrives in environments that allow her to utilize her organizational and interpersonal skills.
"I am passionate about bodybuilding, traveling, baseball, and the latest crafting trends!"
Cecilia Manley Comptroller & Compliance Director
Cecilia Manley - Comptroller & Compliance Director has worked for the company since 2016. Her responsibilities include the internal company accounting, payroll and assistance with human resources recordkeeping. Besides her accounting and human resources responsibilities, Cecilia also oversees the PCI and SOC compliance for AFCo . Prior to 2016, Cecilia was employed with Genoese and Associates, an accounting firm, for nearly ten years, and was responsible for financial planning for 20 corporate and 30 personal clients performing accounting tasks and resolving tax issues, auditing, preparing tax returns, payroll and payroll tax filings.
"I am passionate about my granddaughters and reading!"
Katarina Herrmann Senior Manager, Exhibits & Event Operations
Katarina Herrmann - Senior Manager, Exhibits & Event Operations As a goal-driven Senior Manager of Exhibits & Event Operations; Kat consistently epitomizes and showcases AFCo values by solving complex challenges in an ever changing dynamic enterprise while providing idyllic customer service. Multiple years of leading teams across global industries have honed her managerial abilities and always results in her delivering impeccable results. Kat will ensure our company’s continual growth while providing the best possible product to you; our most valuable customer.
"I am passionate about resolving a different type of problem: navigating a difficult trail in my Jeep while on a new adventure!"
Merle Zappan Manager, Lead Generation
Merle Zappan - Manager, Lead Generation is celebrating her thirteenth anniversary with the company after joining the company in 2009, leads our sales and solicitation team making the initial contact with new prospects, assisting in identifying the correct decision-maker within the company, and passing on to the lead business development specialist for high-touch relationship building. Merle also leads the exhibit and sponsorship sales effort for one of our largest clients.
"I am passionate about spending time with my granddaughters, making memories, watching them grow!"
Daniel Yu Event Marketing Development & Design
Daniel Yu – Event Marketing Development & Design has worked with A. Fassano & Company since 2018, beginning as Marketing & Media Communications Associate and rising quickly through the ranks due to his acumen with digital communications and his ability to concisely interpret marketing messaging into the latest digital delivery opportunities. His coding expertise allows for greater application on web pages and within promotional email html writing. His digital analytic skills have helped the company improve SEO almost thirty percent since joining us.
"I am passionate about traveling and spending quality time with my family & friends!"
Kim Simoni Senior Manager, Exhibits & Event Operations
Kim Simoni - Senior Manager, Exhibits & Event Operations resides in the Chicagoland area, and has been involved in the tradeshow and events industry through professional associations for over 20 years. She has a wealth of experience in convention planning, floor management, logistical & operational management. Her career highlights also include exhibits, sponsorship and advertising sales and fulfillment in the healthcare, financial, hospitality industries to name just a few. Most recently she honed her skills at the Financial Managers Society, American College of Surgeon and National Restaurant Assoc. She has worked for contractors and third-party vendors alike and brings a unique understanding of the complex workings of event management.
"I’m passionate about helping rescued foster dogs who are on their way to “fur”-ever homes. I also watch way too many cooking shows, but I enjoy cooking as well."
Dana Olson Business Development
Dana Olson - Business Development, is upbeat and driven, and she brings a wide range of experience to A. Fassano & Company. The past 5 years were spent in the medical device industry; Dana was responsible for many roles, including planning convention exhibitions. Prior, she spent 10 years in sales working for 2 large convention centers in Association Business.
Her goal is to provide an exceptional experience to every exhibitor and form lasting relationships. The best part of an event is seeing everything (and everyone!) come together. Dana goes above and beyond to ensure customers and attendees alike find each event memorable and impactful.
"I am passionate about bringing people together - friends, family, and of course our pups! I enjoy spending time at the the lake, cooking, traveling, and pretty much anything that involves my sweet rescue, Gremmie."
Taylor St.Martin Event Marketing Content Producer
Taylor St.Martin - Event Marketing Content Producerresides in San Diego, California. After graduating from San Diego State University, Taylor began her professional career as a Marketing Coordinator for a local medical device manufacturing company. She brings previous experience in event coordination for large-scale industry trade shows and educational webinars. She is very passionate about events and marketing and brings a variety of skills to A. Fassano & Company such as great attention to detail, organization, and enthusiasm for exceptional customer service.
"I am passionate about spending time with family & friends, traveling, and baking!"
Heidi O'Hara Business Development
Heidi O'Hara – Business Development joined the company in 2018. Before coming to AFCo, Heidi was Sales Manager at Key Publishing Group for two and a half years where she handled exhibit, sponsorship and advertising sales for the International Make-Up Artists Tradeshows. She graduated with a degree in Psychology from California State University Northridge California.
"I am passionate about skiing!"
Megan Haynes, CEM Associate Director, Sponsorship Development and Events
Megan Haynes, CEM – Associate Director, Sponsorship Development and Events delivers a versatile skill set of experience in sponsorship development and fulfillment, exhibits and event management, and superior operational logistics knowledge. Before coming to work at A. Fassano & Company, Megan was a Sponsorship Manager for over 5 years at Informa, managing New Hope Network’s lifestyle portfolio, and prior to that she worked at Vail Resorts and a Denver, CO based DMC gaining experience in the event industry and has also earned her Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) designation. Megan is very passionate about the events industry and providing creative and valuable sponsorship solutions with superior customer service.
"I am passionate about spending time with my daughter and my family, reading, and traveling as much as I can!"
Susan Waters, CEM Business Development
Susan Waters, CEM – Business Development joined the company in 2019 bringing 12 years of tradeshow sales and management experience in the roles of Exhibit Manager and Tradeshow Director, working with both medical and trade associations. Sue also leverages over 13 years of hospitality sales and event experience in the roles of Sales Manager and Director of Sales. Sue has brought her extensive knowledge and passion for sales and relationship building successfully to AFCo’s clients.
"I am passionate about traveling – I love experiencing new countries and cultures."
Rick Felperin Business Development
Rick Felperin - Business Development, brings over 20 years of trade show sales & management experience to A. Fassano & Co. For the past 4 years, Rick has worked exclusively with various associations on successfully increasing their non due’s revenue through exhibit and sponsorship sales programs. Rick has a strong background on the service contracting side of the industry as well as on-site customer service fulfillment.
"I am passionate about playing golf and spending time at the beach."
Anna Fassano, CEM
CEO & Founder
Anna Fassano, CEM - CEO and Founder of A. Fassano & Company, oversees all operations and strategic
planning for clients...
Deb Howley
Vice President
Deborah Howley – Vice President has been with the company more than 20 years, bringing her personal organizational..
Warren Plank
In memory of 1954-2020
Warren Plank In memory of 1954- 2020
Cecilia Manley
Comptroller & Compliance Director
Cecilia Manley - Comptroller and Compliance Director has worked for the company since
2016..
Arlaina Utley, CMP
Director of Sponsorships & Event Marketing
Arlaina Utley, CMP ‐ Director of Sponsorships & Event Marketing With 20 years of experience in the events industry..
Meredith Turner
Director, Business Development & Event Operations
Meredith Turner – Director, Business Development & Event Operations When she joined the company in 2019..
Debra Maines, CMP-HC, DES
Senior Manager, Exhibits & Event Operations
Debra Maines, CMP-HC, DES - Senior Manager, Exhibits & Event Operations joined the company in
2015..
Megan Haynes, CEM
Associate Director, Sponsorship Development & Events
Megan Haynes, CEM – Associate Director, Sponsorship Development and Eventsdelivers a versatile skill set of..
Olivia Philippone
Manager, Sponsorship Development & Fulfillment
Olivia Philippone - Manager, Sponsorship Development & Fulfillment, obtained her MBA at Point Park University..
Merle Zappan
Manager, Lead Generation
Merle Zappan - Manager, Lead Generation soon celebrating her tenth anniversary with the company after joining the company in 2009..
Daniel Yu
Event Marketing Development & Design
Daniel Yu – Event Marketing Development & Design has worked with A. Fassano & Company since 2018..
Taylor St. Martin
Event Marketing Content Producer
Taylor St. Martin – Event Marketing Content Producer resides in San Diego, California. After graduating from San Diego State University..
Katarina Herrmann
Senior Manager, Exhibits & Event Operations
Katarina Herrmann – Senior Manager of Exhibits & Event OperationsAs a goal-driven Senior Manager of Exhibits & Event Operations; Kat consistently ..
Kim Simoni
Senior Manager, Exhibits & Event Operations
Kim Simoni - Senior Manager, Exhibits & Event Operations who resides in the Chicagoland area, has been involved in the tradeshow ..
Susan Waters, CEM
Business Development
Susan Waters, CEM – Business Development joined the company in 2019 bringing 12 years of tradeshow sales and management experience..
Rick Felperin
Business Development
Rick Felperin – Business Development, brings over 20 years of trade show sales & management experience..
Dana Olson
Business Development
Dana Olson - Business Development, is upbeat and driven, and she brings a wide range of experience to A. Fassano & Company ..