World Defense Show Expands Its Team of Global Exhibition Experts

Jan. 13, 2021

Global exhibition veteran Doug Schlam has joined the World Defense Show team as North America Sales Director. In his new role, Schlam will support the launch of World Defense Show and build the foundation for a world-class event – the newest and first fully integrated entrant to the global defense show circuit.

A major player in the international trade show industry over the past two decades, Doug held the position of International Sales and Development Director at Clarion Defense & Security prior to joining World Defense Show. Commenting on his move, Schlam said, “For years, customers have asked me about events in Saudi Arabia and I am honored to be working on World Defense Show as it becomes a key element for industry to drive defense innovation, while building relationships with local and global contacts. Through KSA’s Vision 2030, there is a huge opportunity to develop partnerships, joint ventures and of course local manufacturing which will provide for long-term ROI.”

Founded by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), World Defense Show is focused on interoperability across air, land, sea, security innovative defense technologies and satellite defense systems. The inaugural event is scheduled to take place between March 6 and 9, 2020, and held biennially in Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh. Schlam’s responsibilities involve onboarding long-term exhibitors and partners in line with the show’s strategic vision, leveraging his international expertise to tap into all levels of the supply chain, across every platform. Alongside the rest of the World Defense Show team, he will work to make this show the biggest, most important, and innovative event in the industry.

Equipped with strong relationships throughout the sector – with exhibitors, media, trade associations, government partners, and other service providers – Schlam has promoted some of the world's largest events including; DSEI, LAAD Defence & Security, EDEX and Asian Aerospace, among others. When asked about key learnings throughout his career, Doug says, “Being within the same industry this long has provided a well-rounded knowledge of not only the industry, but all facets of preparing companies on what to expect when they exhibit at an event. Interoperability and integration are key components for the future of defense and security. World Defense Show has developed a proactive platform that focuses on what the industry needs, which in turn provides great value for participants.”

Schlam joins a team of international experts led by World Defense Show CEO, Shaun Ormrod, former CEO of Farnborough Airshow with over 20 years of industry trade show expertise. Remarking on his new team, Doug stated, “I have for years admired the team's work on Farnborough and look forward to sharing all of our skill sets. With decades of combined experience, there will be a strong collaborative approach to deliver the best industry event on the market.”