Gornall announced his departure last week, looking for a 'change of career'.
"It was over five years ago that I became CEO of Reed Exhibitions UK and since then I am very proud of what we have collectively achieved," said Gornall.
"It is a wonderful business with great shows, people and reputation. The decision to leave is entirely mine and down to the fact that I want to do something different with the next stage of my career."
Fowles has been a member of the worldwide board of Reed Exhibitions for the past 13 years. He will continue to be responsible for Reed Exhibition's businesses in Germany, Austria and Russia.
Fowles said: "I know that RX UK is an extremely good business and I am delighted to have the opportunity to work with the UK team and to take the business forward".
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