It is one of a number of changes in a major reshuffle at Clarion Events, the public company which bought the shows from the trade association, BACTA, five years ago, which is launching its own show for London next January.
In an official release, Clarion reports that it is also closing elements of its overseas operations, blaming the cutbacks on “market conditions”.
The statement says: "Clarion Events has announced a strategic restructuring of its gaming division which involves the closure of its US office in St Charles with the relocation of activities to London and the appointment of former ATEI marketing and commercial director Julian Graves to the newly created post of managing director responsible for exhibitions.
Julian Graves, whose association with IGE/ICEi/ATEI and The Betting Show dates back to 2000, takes over from Peter Rusbridge, who has chosen the restructuring process as an opportunity to pursue new avenues after 17 years’ service.
Heralding the changes, Julian Graves said: “There has been a major resizing of the industries that we serve and the restructuring process is essential for all businesses in order to remain competitive and healthy. I worked alongside Peter for a number of years both at BACTA and Clarion. He has made a major contribution to the exhibitions and has decided that now is an opportune time to try something new.”
The statement also reports that Mark Walker will continue to run the gaming conference business.