Gerald T. McQueen Leaving Top Post at New York's Javits Center
November 16, 2011
After 16 years at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center of New York, 14 of which were at the helm and two as inspector general, Gerald T. McQueen will be stepping down.
He will stay in his post as president and CEO until a successor is found, according to venue officials.
During his tenure at the Javits Center, McQueen helped transform it from a place plagued by corruption and racketeering to a venue with a stable work force, well-maintained building and capable management team.
“I regret leaving an institution that has been such a large part of my professional life, but secure in the knowledge that the reforms we have instituted during my time here have transformed the center into an institution that fulfills is mission with integrity, whose customers are well-served and whose employees enjoy a fair workplace and fulfilling work,” McQueen said.
He added, “I will always feel a part of this wonderful place.”
McQueen also oversaw a decade-long effort to have the center expanded, which was completed last year with the addition of Javits Center North, and a renovation to the main building is underway and set to be completed by the end of 2013.
In addition, he promoted diversity in the workforce and ensured that employees were treated with dignity and respect, according to Javits officials. He also enforced ethics requirements that held everyone, from the board of directors to the lowest paid worker, accountable.
“Jerry has had a great run at the Javits Convention Center,” said Javits Board Chairman Carl H. Loewenson, Jr.
He added, “He played a critical role in getting organized crime out of the center, and under Jerry’s leadership, the center has, for many years, been one of the few convention centers in the country that covers its expenses.”
The Javits Center hosted 18 events on the 2010 TSNN Top 250 Trade Show list, with the New York International Gift Fair summer edition being the largest, with 2,800 exhibitors and nearly 50,000 attendees on a 534,000 net square foot showfloor.
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.
Add new comment