Jeff Johnson will head the Minneapolis Convention Center as its executive director after twice serving for about 15 months as its interim leader. City Coordinator Steven Bosacker named Johnson to the job Tuesday. WHAT'S THE JOB?
Duties involve running the Convention Center, which has a $27 million annual operating budget; overseeing the city's contract with AEG to operate Target Center; managing the city's new performance-based contract with Meet Minneapolis, which markets the center and Minneapolis tourism, and serving as a liaison with the hospitality industry. The job pays $145,047 annually.
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?
Johnson's appointment gives the city the potential for more continuity in a job held since 2006 by two directors who served for short periods and by interim directors.
WHAT HAS HE DONE?
Johnson started at the center as head of guest services in 2004; he previously held a similar position at Xcel Energy Center and RiverCentre in St. Paul. He became director of event services in 2006.
WHAT THEY SAY
Bosacker said he's had the chance to work with Johnson during changes in center leadership. "I believe Jeff is prepared to take on the permanent role," Bosacker said. "Jeff has been a very strong leader throughout."
WHAT HE'LL DO
Johnson said his priorities will be to keep strong the Convention Center and the city's hospitality industry, which includes lodging, eateries and other services. The center lost a record $15.7 million in 2008, but trimmed that to $13.7 million last year, when its revenues covered 49 percent of expenses.
STEVE BRANDT
