By SEMA News Editors
Brian Pagel joins SEMA's executive team to support member engagement, business growth and continued investment in programs that advance the specialty-equipment industry.
SEMA has announced that Brian Pagel has joined the organization’s executive leadership team as Chief Revenue Officer, a strategic role focused on strengthening SEMA's ability to serve its members, support industry growth, and advance the association’s long-term mission.
In this role, Pagel will work closely with SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola, the Board of Directors and the executive leadership team to align business strategy with mission delivery, operational excellence and long-term organizational sustainability. His responsibilities include supporting SEMA's marketing, sales, membership, events and revenue management functions, while helping ensure the association continues to invest in programs, services and initiatives that benefit members and the broader specialty-equipment industry.
"Brian brings the experience, industry knowledge and strategic mindset needed to help SEMA deliver even greater value to our members and the broader specialty-equipment community," said Spagnola. "As a nonprofit association, our focus is on reinvesting in programs, advocacy, events, research, education and services that help our industry succeed. Brian's leadership will help ensure we are building the resources, partnerships and opportunities needed to support our members today and into the future."
Pagel brings extensive experience leading business development, strategic partnerships, events, media brands, and growth initiatives across the trade association and B2B event sectors. Most recently, he served as executive vice president at Emerald, where he was responsible for business development tied to strategic association partnerships, new acquisition opportunities, and the management of a portfolio of 64 B2B trade shows, hosted buyer events, conferences, and companion assets. In that role, he managed a 200-person portfolio with 10 direct reports and $130 million in P&L responsibility, while driving sustained improvements in portfolio performance, including double-digit EBITDA growth in three of the past four years.
"I'm honored to join SEMA and support its work on behalf of the specialty-equipment industry," said Pagel. "SEMA has a powerful mission, a passionate membership and an important role in helping businesses innovate, grow and succeed. I look forward to working with Mike, the Board and teams across the association to strengthen member value, build meaningful partnerships and ensure SEMA continues investing in programs and opportunities that move the industry forward."
Pagel will help develop and implement a multi-year strategy aligned with SEMA's organizational goals, establish performance metrics, support membership growth and retention and work with department leaders on planning, goal development and operational priorities. He will also help align member engagement and business-development efforts with SEMA's marketing, communications and brand positioning.
The appointment reflects SEMA's continued commitment to strengthening its leadership team and ensuring the association is positioned to meet the evolving needs of its members and the industry. Pagel will report to Spagnola and serve as a key member of SEMA's senior leadership team.
This article was published on August 3, 2026.
