MG Design names new president

MG Design Associates has named John Patten to the new position of president, where he will oversee all operational aspects for the award-winning firm. Michael Grivas retains the title of chief executive officer of MG Design and will remain actively involved in serving the clients of the 51-year-old firm.


“Hands-on experience, exceptional vision and outstanding energy are just a few of the qualities John brings to this position,” said Grivas. “Constant evolution is a hallmark of successful companies and with this promotion we are positioned to help our clients continue to build best-in-class exhibit and event marketing strategies. Since joining MG Design, John’s enthusiasm, integrity and passion bring out the very best of our talented team. I am (now) able to focus on our clients and the creative process knowing that John’s unwavering focus is on continued operational excellence.

“As we close this year of growth, this is just the start of a number of initiatives that MG Design is undertaking to ensure best-in-class exhibit experiences,” said Grivas. “Working together, we are focused on refining our processes and establishing measurable benchmarks that will help our clients to improve their customer engagement strategies.”

Patten joined MG Design in 2009 as vice president of operations and has been a part of the team that delivered the firm’s “Best of Show” Fresh Ideas exhibit at Exhibitor2010 and a presence at HCEA’s 2010 annual meeting.

“MG Design is one of the most innovative and dynamic agencies in our industry,” said Patten. “The creative spirit and can-do attitude are contagious and are a large part of the reason MG Design is able to produce top line results for our clients. Who else in this industry can say they have 20 clients who have been with them for 20 years? In this new role, my job is to focus on a business model that ensures the ongoing success of our clients and our firm for decades to come.”