RX UK (Reed Exhibitions) today announced Vasyl Zhygalo as Portfolio Director for IBTM and WTM brands, in addition to his current role as Managing Director of RX Abu Dhabi office.

Zhygalo will relocate to London this month and will be part of the RX UK Brand Team.

Zhygalo has been with the company for over 15 years and has more than 20 years of experience in the corporate event sector, working on conferences, summits and international trade shows worldwide. Before becoming Managing Director of RX Middle East, he worked as Portfolio Director for Energy and Marine Portfolio in London.

Vasyl Zhygalo said: “I am very excited to be leading the team. Travel and Events has faced massive challenges since the start of the pandemic, and I look forward to working with the WTM and IBTM brands and all our customers as we look forward to the industry’s recovery post-COVID.

“Our priority is to combine both digital and face-to-face interactions, and with RX’s new identity and updated brand positioning, I’m confident we’ll continue to create all-year-round communities that support businesses and help their customers to grow.”

After nearly three years in the role, Claude Blanc is stepping down as Portfolio Director, and Vasyl will take over from June 2021.

Claude Blanc said: “It’s been a great experience working at RX, both professionally and personally, and I’m incredibly proud of what the WTM and IBTM Portfolio teams have achieved, and among others the successful pivoting to virtual events. I’ve been lucky to work with some incredibly talented and knowledgeable people. I wish the teams, our customers and partners the very best on their path to recovery post-pandemic.”

Kerry Prince said: “Vasyl joins the team with a solid track record of overseeing complex events and partnerships from his time in the UK growing and running the Energy and Marine portfolio and in his Managing Director role in Abu Dhabi where he has successfully refreshed the Middle East portfolio of events. Under Vasyl’ leadership, I’m confident that we will see the portfolio continue to grow and flourish.”