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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 13, 2019
C.C. Gonzalez-Kurz
Marketing and Communications Manager
214-939-2738
c.gonzalezkurz@dallascityhall.com
City Council Approves Contract for the Private Management of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas
Spectra to manage day-to-day operations of the Convention Center
DALLAS, TX - The City Council approved a 5-year contract with Spectra Venue Management to manage the day-to-day client and facility operations of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas (KBHCCD), in order to improve the client experience and increase revenues, making Dallas a high performing convention and event city.
“This is a big deal for our City’s tourism economy,” said T.C. Broadnax, City Manager. “Spectra brings a wealth of knowledge in managing other high revenue generating convention centers and facilities, and now they will bring their expertise here, improving Dallas’ standing as a convention and event destination.”
Effective today, following City Council approval, Spectra, an Atairos-owned and Comcast-backed events management and promotion company, will implement industry standard best practices over an initial 45-day transition period.
“Spectra’s national reach and understanding of the industry will create efficiencies that reduce costs and increase revenues, and our agreement incentivizes measurable improvements in our financial performance, customer service and facility quality,” said Joey Zapata, Assistant City Manager.
Spectra currently operates 174 facilities, including 45 convention centers and 56 arenas. Spectra’s ability to leverage these existing relationships and operational standards will benefit clients when negotiating contracts and pricing.
“Spectra is honored and excited to have been selected as venue manager for the Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center Dallas,” John Wentzell, Spectra’s President, said. “We look forward to partnering with the City of Dallas to customize growth strategies to continue elevating the convention center as a premier destination for major meetings and conventions.”
Overall responsibility for finances, contract management and capital improvements will remain under the leadership of Rosa Fleming, Convention and Event Services Interim Director. Fleming will also lead the creation of a convention center master plan that enhances client experience, promotes public transportation and activates the entire convention center campus, by creating outdoor spaces and placemaking that promote walkability and connectivity.
“We’re always looking for ways to improve the customer satisfaction and this masterplan connecting the convention center to world-class restaurants, arts and entertainment,” said Fleming. “The convention center will become one of many reasons people choose Dallas for future conventions and events.”
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