David M. Gibbons Named New Executive Director for the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority

December 13, 2015

Longtime hospitality executive, David M. Gibbons of Rockport, Mass., was named by board of directors for the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority as its executive director.

Gibbons becomes the third leader in the history of the MCCA, taking over most recently for James Rooney, who left to run the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce.

Gibbons appointment comes after a several-month search process led by executive search firm Korn Ferry.  In his role, Gibbons will oversee ownership and operations of the Authority’s four facilities, including the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center in the South Boston Waterfront, the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center in Boston’s Back Bay, the MassMutual Center in Springfield, Mass., and the 1,350-space Boston Common Parking Garage.

“David brings a very unique leadership skillset that matches with our plans for growing the MCCA brand globally." said John McDonnell, chairman of the Selection Committee and MCCA Board and managing director International of Fifth Generation, Inc., Tito’s Handmade Vodka. 

He added, "He has a proven track record as an innovator, team builder and positive change agent.  He knows how to take established facilities and bring them to new levels of success."

Gibbons has spent 30 years in leadership roles in the hospitality industry.  He has held the role of general manager at Swissotel (Boston), The Drake (New York City), and the Taj Boston. Gibbons is highly regarded for his leadership experience in operations, food and beverage, finance, labor relations, and overall general management. He is also a former chairman of the Massachusetts Lodging Association and was awarded General Manager of the Year by the association. 

“Thank you to Chairman McDonnell, the search committee and the full board for entrusting me with this enormous responsibility," Gibbons said.

He added, "I look forward to working with the Gov. Baker, Mayor Walsh, Mayor Sarno, and the many other important stakeholders across Massachusetts to enhance the MCCA's role in the convention industry and lead the authority towards a self-sustainable business model.”

“I am pleased to welcome David to the MCCA,” said Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker. “As a former hospitality executive and head of the Massachusetts Lodging Association, David brings the leadership experience and credentials needed to maintain a thriving convention and tourism industry in Massachusetts. 

The Board assembled a Selection Committee comprised of five board members: board chairman, John McDonnell; Massachusetts Executive Office for Administration & Finance Secretary, Kristen Lepore; Amy Lattimer; Michelle Consalvo; and David Sweeney.  Led by Korn Ferry, the group reviewed or discussed over 100 resumes, and conducted several interviews before coming to consensus to present Gibbons as the new leader of the MCCA.

Fred Peterson, the MCCA’s Director of Facilities Operations, has served as interim executive director since July 1, 2015. 

He will return to this role with the Authority upon Gibbons assuming the executive role Jan. 4.  

"We greatly appreciate Fred for stepping up and leading the MCCA as the interim executive director, and are pleased that he will remain in a leadership role within the organization,” McDonnell said.

 

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.