Kisha Powell joined ACT-IAC in 2013 and is a highly experienced events and marketing executive with a career spanning more than two decades in event strategy, conference planning, and customer experience design. At ACT-IAC, she leads the strategic vision and execution of the organization's extensive event portfolio, including multi-day conferences, award programs, and exhibits. Her responsibilities include overseeing volunteer planning committees, managing event budgets, directing event logistics, developing conference mobile apps, and driving marketing and PR initiatives.
Before stepping into the CXO role, Powell held several progressively senior positions at ACT-IAC, including Events and Marketing Executive, Director of Meetings, and Associate Director of Meetings. In each of these roles, she consistently managed complex event operations, from site selection and contract negotiations to speaker management and technology integration. Her leadership helped guide cross-functional teams and committees in delivering high-impact events aligned with organizational goals, while also supporting the rollout of new initiatives and digital tools to enhance the attendee experience.
Her earlier career includes a 14-year tenure at the University of Maryland, where she served as Program Manager and instructor, generating over $2 million annually through conference services. She also worked in editorial and marketing roles at America’s Community Bankers. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a blend of strategic planning, creative execution, and strong mentorship that has contributed to her long-standing success in the events and association space.
Kisha holds a B.A. in English from the University of Maryland, College Park; an M.S. in Public Relations from the University of Maryland Global Campus; and a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation from the Events Industry Council.