Chicago, IL – David Causton, the longtime general manager of McCormick Place, was named regional vice president of SMG’s Convention Center Division effective May 8.
Causton will remain the GM of McCormick Place, which is the nation’s largest convention center, according to Trade Show Executive’s World’s Top Convention Centers 2014 rankings. Causton became general manager of McCormick Place in 2004 and joined SMG in 2011 when the Chicago landmark transitioned to private management.
“The successes that we have had at McCormick Place are attributable to David’s leadership,” said Gregg Caren, SMG executive vice president, convention centers. “This promotion recognizes the magnitude of the job he does each and every day.”
Since assuming management of McCormick Place in 2011, SMG improved financial performance of the facility, streamlined sales and management structures, and increased customer service and satisfaction.
In addition to oversight responsibilities at McCormick Place and its team of 200, the promotion will give Causton a role in SMG’s strategic planning for its portfolio of municipal venues around the U.S. He will provide input on operational matters such as labor relations, best practices and implementing new industry innovations.
Reach David Causton at (312) 791-7000 or dcauston@mccormickplace.com; Gregg Caren at (610) 729-7900 or gcaren@smgworld.com
