NATPE’S Harbeson Wins Event Planning Honor

NATPE announced today that its VP of operations, Wayneston Harbeson, has been named Association Event Planner of the Year in BizBash’s second annual Readers’ Choice Awards.

The winners were announced June 13 at BizBash IdeaFest Los Angeles at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Readers were first invited to nominate local event professionals in 13 categories and then, later, to vote on the finalists through BizBash’s interactive voting site. In all, more than 40,000 votes were cast over the course of two weeks.

“Wayneston is a joy to work with. He’s a true pro, anticipates challenges, finds solutions and is always proactive. He is an integral part of what makes NATPE events highly productive and enjoyable for all involved,” said NATPE President-CEO Rod Perth. “We are very proud of Wayneston’s accomplishments and grateful for his contributions to this organization and the industry.”

“To be recognized by BizBash readers and my peers among the industry’s best is an honor,” Harbeson said. “I have the great pleasure of working with an incredibly talented and passionate team each day, so this award is a reflection of everyone at NATPE.”

Harbeson, a veteran specialist in events, trade shows and convention services, has been with NATPE since 2008. He works closely with exhibitors to deliver innovative services that highlight their companies and their work. Overseeing all logistical aspects of NATPE||Content First, the group’s annual media marketplace held in Miami, Wayneston will play an instrumental role in NATPE’s 50th Anniversary in 2013. He also oversees operations for NATPE||Budapest, which takes place June 26-28 in Hungary, and NATPE’s annual PitchCon conference in Los Angeles, which concluded last week.