DETROIT, (CELEBRITYACCESS MEDIAWIRE) -– The Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority (DRCFA) has selected SMG to manage Cobo Center, the nation’s 20th largest convention center. The move follows the creation of the new multi-governmental authority last fall designed to raise the Cobo's profile as a national convention center and trade show venue.
At 700,000 square feet of prime exhibit space, Cobo Center, is home to the North American International Auto Show, and the largest publicly owned convention center ever to transition from public to private management.
SMG veteran and Detroit native/Michigan State University alum Thom Connors has been tapped to take over the role of general manager at the Cobo. Connors has been involved in the management and oversight of facility operations since 1978 and joined SMG in 1982.
“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.” – CelebrityAccess Staff Writers
