NEW YORK — Jess Edkins is joining Business Insider as Vice President of BI Live in New York. The appointment adds leadership to Business Insider's events division, which organizes conferences and gatherings for business professionals.

Edkins will work with Hannah Diddams and Kim Last to lead BI Live. The events team recently expanded with the addition of Ronnie Ervin to its sales division.

Prior to joining Business Insider, Edkins created and produced events that delivered real editorial impact and strong business results. Edkins previously created and produced events at a major media publication.

BI Live plans to debut a flagship New York event this fall. The division also has scheduled an event in Cannes that will include the return of its signature CMO breakfast.

BI Live held events at the Davos conference. The events operation is pacing ahead of its plan.

Business Insider considers events an increasingly important part of its strategy to connect with its audience. The media company operates the events division to organize conferences and gatherings for business professionals.