ABM chief Hughes resigns

American Business Media President and CEO Gordon Hughes II announced January 20 he will leave the association in July to launch a production company. He has led the business-to-business media trade association since 1994.

It is the second announcement in two days of an association head stepping down. John Greco, president and CEO of DMA, announced his resignation Tuesday.

ABM is initiating a search for a new leader to direct the association after Hughes' departure later this year.

He is credited with transforming the one-time print publishers' group, called American Business Press until 2000, into a digital business media trade group.

He developed a number of initiatives during his tenure, including the launch of the Business Information Network, an ad tracking system for print publications, live events and online advertising. Hughes also developed the Creative Excellence in Business Advertising (CEBA) Awards. On the editorial side of the business, he created the Timothy White Award for Editorial Integrity, named for the late Billboard editor.

Hughes also created the McAllister Fellowship. Most recently, he created the Robert L. Krakoff Lifetime Publishing Award and the Gertrude R. Crain Award for women in business-to-business media.

In addition, Hughes collaborated with Booz & Company and ABM's Strategic Planning committee and board 18 months ago to develop a plan for the organization's future. This plan sets the agenda for the association for the next two to three years.

“I'm leaving with a good strategic plan in place,” Hughes said, adding that it includes a research project with the Association for National Advertisers. “It'll be great for marketers.” 

The move marks his return to the entertainment industry. He previously spent 20 years at CBS and won two Emmy Awards.