Managing director to leave the company after five years to start a family.
A statement from Emap reads:

"Alison Jackson, Managing Director at Emap Connect, has decided to leave the company in order to start a family. Mrs Jackson made this decision several months ago but delayed her departure in order to complete the Spring Fair International 2009 campaign and the 2010 launch.

"She will leave the company in March and her replacement will be announced shortly.

"Mrs Jackson has held the position of MD at Emap Connect for five years during which time she has earned a reputation as an inspirational leader, building strong, motivated teams.

"Voted one of the top 100 most influential people in exhibitions, Mrs Jackson has spearheaded a portfolio of leading brands including Spring Fair International, the largest trade show in the UK."

Mrs Jackson had recently borne the brunt of visitor concerns over the introduction of a parking charge at Spring Fair this year. The plans were soon scrapped and Emap said that it should have given more notice before making such a change.