Clarion ATE, organisers of London’s ATEI, ICE and ICEi shows, have bolstered their team with the confirmation of two appointments within the operational division. Sophie Matthews becomes Operations Manager, whilst Paul Mills is drafted in as Operations Executive.

Sophie Matthews was seconded from the Clarion Events team in January this year to help with the 2006 show build-up and break-down. The 33-year-old has been involved with the operational side of Clarion, formerly P&O Events, since 1998, working on high profile shows at Earls Court including PLASA (Professional Lighting And Sound Association), Fly (The London Airshow) and Smithfield (agricultural trade show), as well as the annual Show Jumping Championships at Olympia. This broad portfolio has seen her successfully manage the logistics of display products as diverse as Harrier Jump Jets, livestock, heavy plant, helicopters and state-of-the-art lighting/display rigging throughout the ground floor and upper level of Earls Court.

Paul Mills has worked in a sales capacity for ATE since 2002, covering exhibitions and conferences including ICE/ICEi, The Betting Show and EiG. Stepping into a new role, the 28-year-old will use his experience and knowledge of the London Show and its personalities whilst adding to his own career skill set.

Clarion ATE Chief Executive, Peter Rusbridge commented on the double appointment: “With a new floor plan for 2007, it has never been more important that the shows are put together with logistical precision and close attention to detail. I am confident that Sophie’s broad expertise and management experience combined with Paul’s good working knowledge of exhibitors’ needs will help to deliver a spectacular event.”