Q&A, CEO of Javits Center CMM, CMM, CMM, CMM

New York City – On March 10, 2025, CMM, CMM, CMM, officially became CEO of Javits Center.

Leveston is the venue’s first female CEO and will be the first to drive its mission to drive the city’s economy, attracting outstanding events and leading advances in sustainability, security and technology.

She was senior vice president of the Oak View Group Convention Center and replaced Alan Steel, who served as CEO at Javits Center for more than a decade.

Trade Fair Director (TSE) caught up with Leviston to learn about her new role, venue plans and advice for emerging professionals.

Andrew: What attracted you to Javits Center?

Joyce: The Javits Center is one of the major conference venues in North America. I know Alan Steel for years, working with him and his team, and in preparation for expansion a few years ago, they provided solutions in meetings and association meeting standards… When several industry leaders and search companies reached out to help this position, they felt natural.

For me, advances in innovation, security, farm-to-table experience and commitment to sustainability only make the opportunity more attractive. The idea that I could develop a vision and marketing strategy to “reintroduce” the world to Hudson’s new Javits is very exciting.

Andrew: What are you going to achieve in this new character?

Joyce: My goal for this team is to raise the bar. A lot of the work has been done, and it’s an amazing facility, but I want to make sure everyone in the industry (from meeting planners and presenting them to the organizers to third-party event companies) understands the jewelry at the Javits Center.

I plan to change that narrative and invite the world to experience the excellence we already know we can achieve. I intend to reshape the Javits Center’s “who” and “what” perspective: an innovative international destination with breathtaking seaside views around the world.

Andrew: How does it feel to be the first female CEO of Javits Center?

Joyce: It’s great to know that my experience in facilities and site management has been respected and respected and seen. Yes, I happen to be a woman, but I was selected to lead this team because I am a professional leader with extensive experience in my craft.

I realized this was a big moment representing, which made me happy to know that I was paving the way for others who looked like me.

Related. Alan Steel retires from Javits Center after historic tenure

Andrew: What brought you into the event industry?

Joyce: As San Diego’s new Navy wife, I watched the San Diego Convention Center for more than two years. I insisted on a financial advisor at UCSD (UCSD) (San Diego) helped me conduct interviews on the venue, and the rest was history.

Despite seeing the magic that the conference center is building, it is indeed my mentor, sponsor, staff and colleagues – inspired me to stay in the service industry.

Andrew: What do you enjoy in this field?

Joyce: People are the best part of working in this industry. No day is the same. We are always reshaping ourselves, and the opportunities for innovation are amazing, but the resilience of the people is my favorite!

Andrew: What career milestones do you think can help you prepare for this role?

Joyce: My career has been amazingly successful. There is no doubt that my sixteen years at the San Diego Convention Center have really shaped my attitude and belief in the service industry.

There are several other key milestones. As I transitioned to DC, I worked closely with the White House and state departments to host some high-profile people and events such as the Women’s Summit and the President’s Inauguration.

What I did at the George R. Brown Convention Center supports Houston’s community by creating shelter for people and providing support for people after Hurricane Katrina. Putting human life and dignity on capital gains has changed my lifestyle and confirmed that my passion for people is my goal.

Andrew: Do you want to call any mentor or colleague?

Joyce: Yes, I’m proud to say I’d like and thank you for your inquiry so that I can share my gratitude!

First, I want to call together Carol Wallace of San Diego (President and CEO of the San Diego Theater and former President and CEO of the San Diego Convention Center Company). She saw something in me that I didn’t see. She inspired me to make my career exceptionally good and follow the blueprint. She made sure I was seen and gave me a platform to engage and add value.

I would also like to shout out several early leaders that have supported my journey: Tom Mobley, Ric Booth (General Manager at Oak View Group), John Page (Senior Vice President at Oak View Group), David Gibbons (former Executive Director at the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority, where Leveston worked as General Manager), Samuel Thomas (Senior Vice President and General Manager for Oak View Group at McCormick Place) and Greg O’Dell (President of Oak View Group site management).

Each of these leaders has played a major role in my journey, which has led to this major milestone in my career. I am so grateful to them for believing I am the seed and they can water it.

Related. Young Professional Corner “Hidden Hero” Spotlight No. 1: Performances and Facilities Trade Members

Andrew: What advice would you give to young or emerging professionals?

Joyce: Find the mentors you appreciate and respect and then focus on fostering the same attributes that inspired you to choose a mentor.

Work with your friends, willing to learn from others and connect with many, but most importantly, always believe in yourself. Finally, make your grace great!

Andrew: Do you want to add something else?

Joyce: I might be the first, but I don’t plan to be the last one. If I can give any advice to my leaders, make room for the others on the table, whether it’s on the board or on the pre-meeting meeting.

We all have something to share and should have the opportunity to participate because listening to different perspectives is the way we can achieve greatness.

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