Merchandise Mart Properties (MMPI) has named Jeff Petersen director of sales and Michael J. Rabatin marketing director for the Architectural Digest Home Design Show (March 21-24), effective immediately. They replaced Troy Hanson and Megan Reilly.
Michael Rabatin. Photo courtesy the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
Combined, Petersen and Rabatin bring 50 years of sales, publishing, and marketing expertise to the Show. Petersen has spent more than 30 years at Architectural Digest in the advertising department holdng positions from regional manager to publisher. He will continue in his role as executive director of Architectural Digest while adding responsibility as director of sales for the show. Rabatin has worked in the business of design for more than 20 years, serving as vice president for Ralph Lauren, design studio director at Gabberts, as well as running his own design consultation firm, MJR Design Studio. He brings with him a vast network of global resources as well as wholesale, retail, and licensing experience.
Giulio Capua, vice president and publisher of Architectural Digest, said, “Jeff’s knowledge of the brand, its loyal following and the luxury goods category is invaluable. Combine this with Michael’s creative direction and we’ve got ourselves a winning pair.”
Petersen and Rabatin are looking to build on last year’s attendance, which included a 30% increase in trade turnout.
“As we pass the torch on to Jeff and Michael, we can’t wait to see them take this show to new heights,” said Susan McCullough, MMPI senior vice president.
