PCMA NAMES GABRIELLE WEISS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF CONVENE MAGAZINE

Award-Winning Media Leader to Guide Convene’s Next Era Following Michelle Russell’s Legacy of Editorial Excellence

CHICAGO, IL – Sherrif Karamat, CAE, President & CEO, PCMA and CEMA today announced the appointment of Gabrielle Weiss as editor-in-chief of Convene magazine, effective June 1, 2026. Weiss succeeds Michelle Russell, who is departing PCMA following a distinguished 23-year tenure to have more flexibility to spend time with family while continuing to contribute to the events industry. Under Russell’s leadership, the publication became one of the most trusted media brands throughout the global business events industry.

“Michelle set the standard for editorial excellence,” said Karamat. “She elevated Convene’s editorial standards, expanded its influence, and ensured it remained the leading resource for business events professionals worldwide. We are profoundly grateful for her contributions and leadership.”

Since 1986, Convene has delivered award-winning content for business events strategists and remains the only industry publication offering CMP-certified educational content. It has earned top honors from ASAE, the Association of Media & Publishing, and the American Society of Business Publication Editors, and has consistently ranked as the No. 1 publication events strategists rely on for industry insights.

Weiss joins Convene from Caesars Entertainment, where she served as national marketing manager for the meetings and events team, leading integrated communications strategies across more than 20 industry publications. She was nominated for the Caesars Founders Award in 2026.

“Gabrielle brings a powerful combination of editorial leadership, strategic vision, and deep industry knowledge,” Karamat said. “She understands how to connect content with community and will continue to elevate Convene as the leading source of insights, education and inspiration for business events professionals.”

Previously, Weiss spent eight years at Trade Show Executive, where she rose to vice president and editor-in-chief. She expanded the brand’s digital reach, led its pandemic-era coverage, and drove audience growth, earning national recognition including ASBPE Email Newsletter of the Year and a Top Ten Magazine of the Year distinction. An advocate for emerging talent, she launched Trade Show Executive’s Women to Watch and Trailblazers programs and was named a 2025 Smart Women in Meetings Industry Leader by Smart Meetings.

“I’m honored to join PCMA and lead Convene into its next chapter,” said Weiss. “The publication has long been a trusted voice in our industry, and one I have deeply admired. I’m grateful for the strong foundation Michelle has created, and I look forward to partnering with this talented team to continue delivering thoughtful, high-quality journalism that serves and strengthens the global business events industry. I am deeply grateful to Sherrif, Junior, and Michelle for entrusting me with this opportunity.”