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Carol Wallace, President and CEO of the San Diego Convention Center Corporation, named Brad Gessner as the new General Manager of the Convention Center. Mr. Gessner was named Interim General Manager in July 2006.
“Brad Gessner is a demonstrated leader and brings a diverse level of expertise to this position having successfully managed a range of facilities,” said Carol Wallace. “He will be instrumental in helping continue to build on our reputation as a top-tier convention facility providing innovative leadership and world-class customer service,” added Wallace.
In March, a competitive analysis of the San Diego Convention Center by Trade Show Week found that the Center ranked at the top of all industry measures including attendance, room night sales and number of top conventions and trade shows. The report also found that peers and competitors of the Center rated it “best of class” in the industry.
As General Manager, Mr. Gessner will be responsible for all of the day to day operations of the 2.6 million sq. ft. facility, including building services, maintenance and capital improvements. Additionally, he will be actively engaged in the sales and marketing effort. Mr. Gessner will oversee a full and part-time staff of approximately 350 employees and be accountable for an annual budget of approximately $15 million.
A 30-year industry professional, he is responsible for directing key service departments at the Center including Event Management, Convention Services, Convention Staffing, Operations, Administrative Services, Housing Services, and Restaurant and Concierge Services. These departments are accountable for delivering a high level of service to top drawer clients ensuring an efficient, smooth operation and successful events. In addition, he will direct and manage contracted vendor services relevant to event activity and that contribute to the Center’s revenue streams.
"It's an honor to be given this responsibility and to build on the Center’s record of excellence and work with such an incredible team of professionals. We will continue to provide a world-class facility and superior client services to ensure the San Diego Convention Center remains a leader in the industry,” he added.
Mr. Gessner returned to the Convention Center in February as the Director of Convention and Event Services. Prior to 1996, he held the position of Event Services Director at the Center and helped organize the successful opening of the original facility in 1989. He most recently served as the General Manager at WestWorld of Scottsdale, an Equestrian and Special Events complex, and is the former Deputy General Manager of the 360-acre Del Mar Fairgrounds and Racetrack.
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