The Toy Association’s Jacqueline Retzer Recognized as Trade Show Executive 2024 Woman to Watch

August 15, 2024 | Trade Show Executive has named Jacqueline Retzer, director of event management at The Toy Association™, as one of its 2024 Women to Watch. Retzer is among 10 nominees from across the U.S. who have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to the exhibition industry.

"Jackie's recognition as one of Trade Show Executive's 2024 Women to Watch is a testament to her exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to our industry,” said Kimberly Carcone, executive vice president of global market events at The Toy Association. “Her tenacity, creativity, and management have been instrumental in driving our success at The Toy Association. She consistently goes above and beyond in everything she does, demonstrating not only a deep commitment to her work but also a passion for mentoring and empowering her team. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and excited to see what the future holds for such a talented and inspiring leader."

In addition to managing operations and marketing Toy Association events, including Toy Fair and LA Fall Preview, Retzer executes several Association programs for the inventor/design community, students, and the industry at large, including Toy Fair University, Student Congress, Creative Factor, the Toy Fair Reimagination Awards, and more. Prior to her current position as director of event management, she served as manager of event marketing and audience relations. She also worked as assistant manager of marketing communications, supporting The Genius of Play and Toy of the Year® (TOTY) Awards programs, and began her career at The Toy Association’s public relations agency of record, where she provided support for Toy Fair.

Retzer also currently serves as chair of the New York area chapter of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (NYIAEE), for which she facilitates local events, education, and networking opportunities for exhibition and events professionals in the tri-state area. She also earned a scholarship in 2020 through NYIAEE for her studies toward a Certification in Exhibition Management (CEM).

The Women to Watch program is designed to recognize top-performing female managers who are making a substantial impact early in their careers. Honorees are selected through a rigorous nomination process led by a panel of Trade Show Executive editors. The selection criteria includes recent professional accomplishments, leadership qualities (such as creativity, financial and budgetary acumen, integrity, problem-solving skills, fostering excellence in team members, and mentorship), and as a proven track record in show management. Nominees are chosen not only for their past successes but also for their potential to continue growing into leadership roles within the trade show industry.