Joaquin Quesada has been named deputy director of the Anaheim Convention Center, bringing more than 35 years of convention center operations, sales and service experience to his new position.
Quesada, an Anaheim native who started his career as an Anaheim Convention Center busboy, joins as the center prepares to open 200,000 square feet of new event space in September.
The expansion, known as ACC North, allows the facility to grow with its biggest shows while attracting new groups for specialized conferences, break-out sessions, workshops and galas.
“Joaquin’s industry knowledge and ability to manage multiple venues will be essential as we open the doors to our seventh expansion in September,” said Tom Morton, executive director of Convention, Sports and Entertainment for the city of Anaheim. “He is the right leader to oversee our sales and services efforts with his deep ties to our center and the city. His experience enhances our efforts to make the Anaheim Convention Center the ultimate choice for local, national and international events.”
In 1997, Quesada was appointed Aramark general manager at the Anaheim Convention Center and continued his Aramark career in various district manager roles, overseeing venues in Anaheim, Los Angeles, San Diego, Washington, Palm Springs and Las Vegas until 2016.
Quesada succeeds David Meek, who retired from the Anaheim Convention Center in 2016.
Hosting more than 1 million attendees a year, the Anaheim Convention Center is a vital part of Anaheim’s visitor industry and plays a critical role supporting city services for residents, businesses and visitors.
