NEW ORLEANS – The International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM) recognized two New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (NOENMCC) professionals during its Annual Conference and Trade show in Indianapolis, honoring Chief Commercial Officer Elaine Williams and National Sales Manager Caroline Link.
Williams was awarded the Certified Venue Executive (CVE) designation, IAVM’s highest professional credential and represents the pinnacle of achievement in public assembly venue management. The CVE designation recognizes venue professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, strategic insight and operational excellence.
Since joining the Convention Center in 2007, Williams has been a dedicated team member, holding various leadership roles across sales and events services. As Chief Commercial Officer, she leads the Convention Center’s efforts in procuring major events, through sales, marketing, communications, event services and operations. Williams serves as a key player in positioning New Orleans as a premier destination for meetings and conventions.
“The Certified Venue Executive designation represents the highest level of professional achievement in venue management,” stated Trevor Mitchell, MBA, FASAE, CAE, CDP, President & CEO of the International Association of Venue Managers. “Earning the CVE requires an extraordinary level of experience, leadership and commitment to the profession. Those who achieve this designation have demonstrated not only mastery of complex venue operations, but also a dedication to advancing our industry. Congratulations to Elaine for the impact she continues to make within her organization and the broader venue management community.”
Link was also recognized during the conference as a member of IAVM’s 30 Under 30 class, a competitive program that honors emerging leaders who are shaping the future of the hospitality and venue management industry. Honorees of the 30 Under 30 class are selected for their leadership, innovative thinking and community impact. As a young professional, Link joins an esteemed group of professionals who each greatly contribute to their organization.
In just two years at the Convention Center, Link has quickly become an integral part of the National Sales team, helping to attract meetings and conventions that drive tourism, economic impact and business opportunities for New Orleans.
“Earning the CVE designation, one of the most rigorous and respected credentials in our profession, is a tremendous accomplishment and a testament to the leadership and expertise Elaine brings to our organization.” said Jim Cook, President and CEO of the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. “Caroline’s 30 Under 30 recognition is also meaningful, highlighting the emerging talent that represents the future of our industry. Together, these honors say a great deal about the strength of our team today and the leaders who will carry us forward.”
Established in 1924, IAVM represents more than 7,800 members worldwide who manage and support the public assembly venues. Through networking, professional development and advocacy, IAVM works to educate and advance meeting professionals. As an active IAVM member, the Convention Center remains committed to investing in its employees to better serve the city of New Orleans and visitors alike.
For more information about the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, visit www.mccno.com.
About the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (NOENMCC)
With 1.1 million square feet of prime exhibit space on one level, all under one roof, NOENMCC ranks among the top 10 largest convention centers in the United States. A two-time LEED Gold-certified facility and consistently recognized as a regional and national top workplace, NOENMCC welcomes more than 800,000 visitors each year. Its event activity has generated $93.2 billion in economic impact since its opening in 1985 and plays a leading role in New Orleans’ tourism economy. More than $54 million in contracts have been awarded to small businesses and disadvantaged business enterprises since 2019. With its unmatched space, scale and economic impact, NOENMCC proves that New Orleans is Built to Host.