Rotchford Named Portland Expo Center Facility Director

January 4, 2012

Matthew Rotchford, long-time sales and events manager for the Portland Expo Center, has been named facility director after a national industry search, according to Metro Visitor Venues, which oversees the center.  
He replaces former Director Chris Bailey, who retired in September, after 17 years managing the regional venue.
Metro general manager of visitor venues Teri Dresler said the decision best supports the facility’s expansion into new markets.
“By far, Matthew demonstrated the perfect combination of drive, innovation, flexibility and financial stewardship for this position,” Dresler added. “The selection panel was wowed by his ideas, energy and enthusiasm, in addition to his commitment to staff, clients and the exhibitor industry overall.”
 Since 2001, Rotchford has served as the primary manager in charge of sales, marketing, promotions and event coordination and is credited for building a solid book of business throughout his tenure and, more recently, maintaining business throughout the economic recession.
Prior to working at the expo center, Rotchford worked in the events department for the Oregon Convention Center, also managed under Metro’s visitor venues umbrella, as well as for a number of area nonprofit organizations, including Young Audiences of Oregon.

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