The Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA) has named Chris Konecki general manager of McCormick Place, effective Aug. 24.
Konecki returns to the Chicago convention center after previously spending 16 years with MPEA. He began his career at McCormick Place and later served as an event manager, working with clients on meetings, conventions, and tradeshows.
Konecki returns with organizer experience
After leaving McCormick Place, Konecki joined the Chicago Automobile Trade Association, producer of the Chicago Auto Show.
He spent more than 20 years with the organization and most recently served as executive vice president and director of auto show operations. In that role, he worked with exhibitors, sponsors, venue operators, and industry partners while helping oversee one of the country’s major auto shows.
“Chris is a respected leader who understands what makes McCormick Place special, our people, our customers and our commitment to service,” said Larita Clark, chief executive officer of MPEA. “The search process attracted exceptional candidates from across the country, but Chris distinguished himself through his unique combination of operational expertise, industry leadership and customer perspective.”
MPEA conducted the national search with SearchWide Global.
Konecki to oversee convention center operations
As general manager, Konecki will oversee daily operations at McCormick Place and work with employees, customers, labor partners, hospitality stakeholders, and event organizers.
“McCormick Place is one of the most iconic venues in the meetings and events industry, and it is an honor to once again join this extraordinary team,” Konecki said. “This campus played an important role in my professional development, and I am excited to return.”
McCormick Place offers 2.6 million square feet of exhibition space across its North, South, West, and Lakeside Center buildings. The campus also includes 173 meeting rooms and the 4,249-seat Arie Crown Theater.
The Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority owns McCormick Place, Wintrust Arena, Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, and Marriott Marquis Chicago. For more information, visit mccormickplace.com.
Press release submitted by Hawthorne Strategy Group on behalf of MPEA. Edited by Exhibit City News for clarity, length, and style.
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