Alan Steel to Step Down as Javits Center CEO, Leaving Legacy of Innovation and Sustainability 

June 27, 2024

After leading New York City’s Javits Center for 12 years, Alan Steel will step down as president and CEO at the end of March 2025. A search for his replacement is already underway, according to the New York Convention Center Operating Corp. (NYCCOC), which operates and manages the facility, 

Backstory: Leaving behind an indelible legacy of innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth, Steel’s journey with the Javits Center spans 38 years, including 12 years at the helm and 26 years as a customer. He was already a 30-year veteran of the trade show industry when he was appointed its leader in February 2012.

Related: Trade Show Industry Leaders Share Trends and Predictions for 2023

Why it matters: During his tenure at the Manhattan venue, Steel successfully navigated tremendous challenges, including Hurricane Sandy and the COVID pandemic, as well as overseeing the center’s $375 million renovation and $1.35 billion expansion.

Javits

Big picture: Under his visionary leadership, the Javits Center evolved from a convention center to a symbol of environmental sustainability, community partnership and economic vitality, according to Javits officials.

Related: Javits Center’s Rooftop Farm Yields Delicious New Line of Pickled Produce for Guests

What they’re saying: “Alan Steel’s selfless leadership guided the Javits Center through a transformative era, from its physical renaissance to navigating the challenges of the pandemic, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come,” said Javits Board Chair Lee Perlman.

Leading in sustainability: Steel also oversaw the modernization of the Center’s IT infrastructure, and he championed its progressive sustainability initiatives, serving as a major contributor to the development of the business event industry’s Net Zero Carbon Events Pledge. As a result of his leadership, the Javits Center became a national leader in sustainability, security, and technology.

Related: New Bird Species Flock to Javits Center’s Green Roof

In his own words: “When I came to the building, I had the benefit of being a previous customer and was able to focus on customer experience and culture change as priorities,” Steel explained. “I planned to be here for only three or four years but change takes time and other issues and opportunities emerged. I have been truly fortunate to have the support of the Governor, the NYCCOC Board, and a strong leadership team to bring about meaningful change.”

Looking ahead: Hugh Carey, vice chair of Javits’s Board, will lead a national search for Steel’s successor.

 

Don’t miss any event-related news: Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter HERE, listen to our latest podcast HERE and engage with us on LinkedIn!

Add new comment

Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.    Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.    Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.   The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.    MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.     MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.