Global Spectrum names new general manager of the Durham Convention Center

Global Spectrum, the newly appointed operators of the Durham Convention Center, has named a new general manager of the 32,000-square foot Convention Center. Global Spectrum, which manages more than 100 public assembly facilities throughout North America, is a subsidiary of the internationally recognized sports and entertainment leader Comcast-Spectacor.

“On behalf of Downtown Durham Inc., I am pleased to welcome Jennifer Noble as the General Manager of the Durham Convention Center,” said Bill Kalkhof, president of Downtown Durham Inc. “Global is a major national player in the sports, entertainment and the convention center management business. Global Spectrum will bring much-needed marketing resources and administrative experience to the management of our Convention Center. DDI looks forward to a new day of increased convention bookings which will benefit all downtown businesses, and the entire Durham community.”

Noble, a veteran of the convention center sales and marketing industry, was most recently assistant general manager and director of sales and marketing of the Global Spectrum-managed Conference Center Niagara Falls. In her new role, Noble will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Convention Center, including hiring and training of a full and part-time staff, all financial aspects of the facility, and scheduling, booking and marketing of the events.

“We look forward to working closely with Global Spectrum to bring more meetings and conventions to Durham,” said Shelley Green, President Durham Convention & Visitors Bureau. “They have a great reputation in the industry and we are happy to welcome them here.”

Noble’s past experience and accomplishments as sales and marketing director of the Niagara Falls Convention Center and her training at the Culinary Arts Institute offered a focus that blends quite well with the specific needs of the Durham Convention Center.

“We are excited to have Jennifer represent us locally in Durham,” said Global Spectrum chief operating officer John Page. “Jennifer brings a tremendous amount of experience in creating opportunities for show organizers, meeting planners and the community. We look forward to her creating similar events here in Durham and making the Durham Convention Center the pride of the region.”

Noble has sat on the board of the Niagara Falls Hotel & Motel Association, and the Downtown Niagara Falls Business Association. Noble has been a member of MPI, New York State Business Travel Association and Membership Committee for the Niagara USA Chamber.

Located in the heart of downtown Durham business and entertainment districts, The Durham Convention Center is currently undergoing an extensive renovation. Upgrades to the facility include new lighting, in-house sound, wall and floor coverings. In addition to the soft good renovation, the Junior Ballroom will be revamped creating much-needed breakout space and flexibility within the property, attracting smaller day meetings along with larger meetings and events. Renovations are set to be completed by the end of July 2011.