BOSTON
The Board of Directors for the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA) voted to appoint longtime hospitality executive, David M. Gibbons of Rockport, Mass., as its Executive Director.
Gibbons becomes the third leader in the history of the MCCA, and his 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:
- 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.
- 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." says John McDonnell, chairman of the selection committee and MCCA board. "He has a proven track record as an innovator, teambuilder and positive change agent."
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 has 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.
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 on January 4, 2016. "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.
