Submitted by Oak View Group
RICHMOND, VA – Oak View Group (OVG), manager and operator of the Greater Richmond Convention Center (GRCC), Virginia’s largest convention and exhibition facility, today named Nathanael Harris as its new general manager. Harris, who begins his new role today, brings to GRCC more than 15 years of venue management, marketing and business development experience, as well as a proven record of operational excellence and innovative leadership in the events and entertainment industry.
Prior to joining the Greater Richmond Convention Center, Harris served as OVG General Manager for the Virginia State University (VSU) Multipurpose Center in Ettrick, Virginia. There, he successfully managed the day-to-day operations of more than 180 annual events, including national tours, campus sports, corporate meetings and community entertainment. Under his leadership, the multi-purpose center continues to exceed financial goals while delivering an exceptional event experience.
Prior to joining VSU, Harris served as Director of Marketing for OVG at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts, where he led major initiatives that significantly increased event attendance and brand awareness. He managed a $250,000 marketing budget, established a local college marketing alliance, and built a high-performing marketing team to help drive business growth. His work on community engagement and data-driven strategies has positioned the venue as a regional hub of activity.
Harris’ extensive experience in event booking, marketing strategy and business development has made him a recognized leader in the field, consistently delivering outstanding results across multiple venues.
“Nate’s extensive experience and creative approach to managing high-profile venues will be a valuable asset to the Richmond region,” said John Vithoulkas, Henrico County Supervisor and Greater Richmond Convention Center Authority board member. “His leadership will not only benefit the convention center, but the broader community, driving economic activity and attracting major events to our region.”
Greg O’Dell, President of OVG Venue Management, shared his enthusiasm for Harris joining the Richmond team: “We’ve seen firsthand how Nate’s leadership has made a real difference at Oak View Group venues, and we’re excited to have him serve at GRCC “Bringing the same high level of energy and expertise we are confident he will lead the facility to new heights.”
“I am excited to join this talented team at GRCC,” said Harris. “I am honored to carry on the Center’s rich legacy of excellence and contribute to its continued growth as a premier destination for events and meetings. I look forward to strengthening our connections within the community, expanding our impact and contributing to the meaningful economic impact in the region.”
For more information about upcoming events and developments at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, please visit www.richmondcenter.com.
About the Greater Richmond Convention Center
The Greater Richmond Convention Center is the largest convention and exhibition facility in the Commonwealth of Virginia, with 178,159 square feet of contiguous exhibit space, a 30,550 square foot grand ballroom and 50,000 square feet of additional meeting room space. The convention center is the result of a regional partnership between the City of Richmond and surrounding counties Henrico, Chesterfield and Hanover Counties through their participation in the merger of the Greater Richmond Convention Center Authority.
About the Greater Richmond Convention Center Authority (GRCCA)
GRCCA is a political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Virginia created by the local government districts of Richmond, Henrico, Chesterfield and Hanover to acquire, finance, expand, renovate, construct, lease, operate and maintain GRCCs. GRCCA is governed by a five-member board composed of the chief administrative officers of the four political subdivisions and the presidents of the retail merchant associations. Please visit richmondcenter.com for more information.
About Oakview Group
OVG is a global leader in live experience venue development, management, premium hospitality and 360-degree solutions for a portfolio of world-class owned venues and arenas, stadiums, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions . Founded in 2015 by Tim Leiweke and Irving Azoff, OVG is a leading developer of major new venues open or under development on four continents. Visit OakViewGroup.com and follow OVG on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.
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