Seasoned events executive brings 30+ years of operational expertise to elevate the industry’s premier trade show

Philadelphia — PRINTING United Alliance, the most comprehensive member-based printing and graphics arts association in North America, today announces the appointment of Derrick Nelloms, PMP, as vice president, PRINTING United Expo. With a distinguished career spanning three decades in operational planning, event management, and strategic growth, Derrick brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record of delivering exceptional trade show and event experiences to the Alliance team.

In this leadership role, Derrick will oversee the continued growth and success of the Expo, the industry’s annual premier trade show in North America, as well as assist in the optimization of other key events in the organization’s portfolio. His results-driven approach and dedication to operational excellence will further solidify the Expo’s position as the premier event for the global printing industry.

“Joining the Alliance team is an honor and I am excited for the opportunity to build upon the incredible legacy of PRINTING United Expo,” said Nelloms. “Having spent my career in events and operations, I am eager to work with this talented team to drive continued success, deliver unforgettable experiences, and foster growth across the global printing industry.”

Nelloms Brings Over 30 Years of Experience to the Alliance
Before joining the Alliance, Derrick spent 18 years as operations managing director at Emerald Expositions where he oversaw the strategy, planning, and execution of flagship events, including GlobalShop, Imprinted Sportswear Show (Impressions), Hospitality Design (HD EXPO), CEDIA, Boutique Design (BDNY), Healthcare Design, Environments for Aging, and Sports Licensing. He was also instrumental in the successful launch of NBACON, leading efforts in budgeting, cost optimization, and vendor relationship management, which consistently enhanced customer experiences and streamlined event operations.

Derrick’s career also includes a foundational role at the Georgia World Congress Center in Event Operations, where he worked with major event and tradeshow organizers on a range of industry-renowned events, including the World Energy Engineers, CTIA Wireless, Specialty Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA) Expo, International Home Builders, International Woodworking Fair (IWF), MegaFest, Microsoft, Partylite National Conference, Kitchen & Bath Show, Medtrade, Supershow, ESPN GameDay Live, and Supercross BMX Fanfest, to name a few. His work at the Georgia World Congress Center honed his skills in managing complex logistical demands and providing high-touch service for large-scale, multifaceted events.

“Derrick’s leadership, industry expertise, and passion for operational excellence are precisely what we need to continue elevating the Expo,” said Chris Curran, group president, media and events, PRINTING United Alliance. “His deep understanding of event strategy and customer engagement aligns perfectly with our vision to expand the Expo’s reach and impact. We are thrilled to have him on board and cannot wait to see his contributions to the team.”

Derrick holds a B.B.A. in Finance and Marketing from the University of West Georgia, is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), and is a member of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE).

PRINTING United Expo 2025 will be held October 22-24, 2025, in Orlando, Florida. Visit PRINTINGUnited.com to be notified when online registration opens.

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For more information about becoming an Alliance member to tap into the industry’s leading resources, training, education, content, and support, visit www.printing.org/membership.