The former sales and marketing director of the Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC), Kay Hollander, is stepping down and being replaced by an industry veteran with 21 years’ experience at the convention center.
Ileana Garcia has replaced Hollander as marketing director, officials for Global Spectrum have announced. Garcia has more than 21 years of service at MBCC and a broad experience in sales and customer service.
“This promotion comes at a time when I am ready to take on the challenges that lie
ahead,” said Garcia. “I am very excited to have this opportunity and am looking forward to a great year at the MBCC.”
Her development in sales has grown through job progression beginning with her entry-level position of executive assistant, then to account executive, sales manager, senior sales manager and now to her new position. Understanding the client’s needs and how to strengthen those relationships are the keys to her success.
“One of the biggest benefits of working in this industry is the wonderful people you meet and get to work with,” said Garcia. “You tend to make many long-lasting friendships.”
Garcia was born in Havana, Cuba, and emigrated to Miami in 1967. After 11 years working in the credit card division at Southeast Bank and in various positions in merchandise sales, she began at the MBCC. She first met Hollander in 1991 and began working for her at the MBCC in 2003.
“Kay is truly amazing,” said Garcia. “I really admire her and was fortunate to learn so much from her.”
MBCC General Manager Bob Balsam is happy to have Garcia take over for Hollander.
“I thought it would have been impossible to replace Kay and her many years of experience, but we are very lucky to have Ileana take the reins of the sales and marketing department,” said Balsam. “She has a very strong understanding of the building, the destination and the industry and will continue to do a tremendous job in her new role.”
Garcia began her new position in December.
Global Spectrum manages the MBCC and Colony Theatre as well as more than 100 other public assembly facilities around the world. Nearly 20-million people attended more than 11,000 events in Global Spectrum venues last year. Based in Philadelphia, Global Spectrum is part of Comcast-Spectacor.
