The Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority (DRCFA) has selected SMG to manage Cobo Center, the nation’s 20th largest convention center, and named SMG veteran Thom Connors the venue's general manager.
The move follows the creation of the new multi-governmental authority last fall, and advances its mission to improve financial stability and customer service, and reestablish Cobo Center’s standing in the national convention and trade show market place.
“Cobo Center is one of the most vital links to fulfilling our regional business tourism objectives, as well as to helping ensure that downtown businesses continue to build and thrive here,” said Larry Alexander, the Board’s chairman and president and chief executive officer of the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau. “We have already focused efforts on a number of physical plant initiatives and other service providers, but elevating our management and staff through the most respected firm in the business will really help take us to the next level.”
Company president and chief executive officer Wes Westley stated how pleased and gratified he was by this selection and also announced that SMG veteran Thom Connors has been named general manager of the historic venue. For Connors, who grew up in the Detroit suburbs and is an alumnus of Michigan State University, this is a welcome opportunity. “Thom is the right candidate for this job,” added Westley.