IALD appoints Christopher Knowlton as CEO
(USA) – The IALD has announced that Christopher Knowlton has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the association and Executive Director of the IALD Education Trust as Ashley Robbins, CAE, steps down from her role as Interim CEO to take a new post with another association, effective 1 June.
During Robbins’ nine-year tenure with IALD as Director of Membership and subsequently Interim CEO, she has worked with members across the world to advance the association’s mission of promoting the global profession of lighting design through leadership and advocacy. “Ashley’s contribution and commitment to the lighting design profession will be felt for years to come. We are incredibly grateful to her for the work she has undertaken in very challenging conditions,” said IALD President Monica Luz Lobo.
The IALD Board of Directors selected Christopher Knowlton as the new permanent CEO for the IALD; a former lighting designer of 15 years and business owner who has been involved with the IALD and IALD Education Trust since 2010, Knowlton most recently served as IALD Treasurer. Brandon Thrasher has been selected by the board to replace Knowlton through the end of the 2021-22 term, with Carla Wilkins appointed as the President’s Selected Director to serve the remainder of the 2021-22 term.
Lobo said of Knowlton’s appointment: “Christopher has been instrumental in guiding the association through challenging times and safeguarding its future. He is exceptionally well placed to maintain continuity while also progressing new ideas and advancing the association.”
“I couldn’t be more excited to partner with the IALD Board of Directors, IALD Education Trust and staff team. We have a great opportunity to not only advance the association’s mission and vision, but the profession of lighting design as a while,” added Knowlton.
