• by Fern Siegel , January 20, 2010

Gordon T. Hughes II, the president/CEO of American Business Media, is exiting the association in July. He says he is returning to a career in the entertainment industry.

The 15-year ABM vet Hughes previously spent 20 years at CBS Television and won two Emmy Awards. Peggy Walker, ABM chair, said he had done "a remarkable job."

Hughes is credited with transforming ABM from a traditional print /publishing industry group named American Business Press to a global organization of information providers serving the interests of B2B media by coordinating print, digital, data and events.

During his tenure, ABM also won major victories before the Postal Rate Commission. In addition, he created various awards and fellowships, as well as the Business Information Network ad-tracking system for business media print publications and online advertising.

Most recently, Hughes tapped Booz & Company to work with ABM to develop a strategic plan. The mission was to position ABM as the leading voice for integrated B2B media companies in the industry.