Arc, a global events, data, and media platform backed by investment funds managed by EagleTree Capital, have announced that Mary Larkin will join the network to lead its Americas business.
In the past seven months, Arc says it made two US-based acquisitions, HighQuest Group which includes media and events in agribusiness and investing sectors, as well as ETC, the HR technology and education media and events portfolios of LRP. These acquisitions added scale to Arc and added an international footprint to the network. Mary joins as Americas CEO and executive committee member to guide the businesses on their growth journey as well as work closely with Americas EVP, Tim Hart, on further development activity in North America.
Simon Foster, group CEO of Arc, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Mary to Arc. She brings a wealth of experience in growing event portfolios and developing strong content-centric membership communities. I have long admired the passion and commitment that Mary brings to the industry, to her customers, and to her teams. I’m looking forward to working with her on developing our US business and having her counsel and experience on our Executive Committee.”
Mary said: “Arc has posted an impressive track record in building its platform, but I am particularly excited to join the network because it has chosen to build with strong, community-focused, brands in responsible and sustainable sectors. This is a group that is focused on the long-term success of the communities it serves as well as that of the brands and teams who passionately deliver those meaningful connections. There is so much potential with these incredible products, and the wider network, and I am looking forward to working with the team to develop the possibilities.”
Mary has been in the events and media industry for over 25 years, added Arc. She joins Arc from Diversified Communications where she has been the US lead for the past five years, building her career there through brand, portfolio, and divisional leadership roles. She has worked across several B2B sectors, notably looking after the flagship seafood group at Diversified, where she was responsible for national and international development and expansion of the portfolio and industry news platforms.
She is an active member of the events community, having been chair of industry associations UFI and SISO. Mary is an avid supporter of cross-industry initiatives promoting women in events, increasing diversity and inclusion, and has been a vocal champion about improving events’ sustainability.
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