Chicago, IL – David Causton says he will remain as general manager of McCormick Place for the time being rather than take early retirement now from the Metropolitan Pier & Exposition Authority (MPEA).
The MPEA has offered early retirement to 20 top executives as part of a sharp reduction in its ranks. Causton was offered a three-year window due to his professionalism and to maintain continuity during a time of change for McCormick Place. However, Causton said he would not be leaving any time soon. “The (MPEA) board asked me and I agreed to stay on to continue to work on various initiatives to make Chicago and McCormick Place more competitive and aligned with our competition,” Causton told Trade Show Executive. “My goal is to stay as long as I feel that I am making a contribution to that effort.”
The MPEA, along with city and state political leaders, have vowed a significant shakeup at McCormick Place aimed at lowering trade show costs at the convention center. Causton’s decision avoids the need to find a replacement for a key position at a critical time.
Causton said he was confident reforms would be made to increase the competitiveness of McCormick Place. “I believe we have the opportunity to make real and significant changes to help customers,” he said.
Reach David Causton at (312) 791-6155 or dcauston@mpea.com
