MUSIC CITY CENTER ANNOUNCES NEW EXECUTIVE STAFF

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Music City Center President and Chief Executive Officer Charles Starks has appointed Richard Ginzel as General Manager of Food & Beverage for the 2.1 million square foot convention center. The position is contracted through the facility’s exclusive food and beverage provider, Sodexo Live!

Ginzel is from Detroit and studied at Wayne State University. His background includes more than 20 years of hospitality, food service, and convention center experience. He’s directed and managed food service operations for large-scale event venues in New Orleans, Las Vegas, San Diego, and Sacramento, Calif. Most recently, he served as Vice President of Operations for the Indiana Convention Center, Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis Zoo, and Lucas Oil Raceway in Indianapolis.

As Food & Beverage General Manager, Ginzel will oversee operations related to the procurement, production, preparation, service, and sale of food and refreshments within the building. His direct reports will include the directors and managers of those areas.

“We’ve been tremendously successful in our approach to food and beverage service, and we’re excited to see that continue with Richard,” Starks said. “His vast experience and dedication to this industry will be a welcome asset to our team.”

“Working in convention centers has been a passion, and I am delighted to be here in Nashville,” Ginzel said. “Joining this incredibly talented team and working in this amazing facility is a dream come true!”

Doug Zimmerman currently holds the position that Ginzel is set to take over. Zimmerman announced his retirement in March, after 11 years with MCC.

“I leave so proud, humbled, and thankful to have been a part of the incredible team at Music City Center since its inception. It has been the best job ever,” said Zimmerman. “After 43 years in the food and beverage industry, I look forward to watching the next generation grow.”

Ginzel and Zimmerman will work in tandem in the leadership role to ensure a smooth transition. Zimmerman’s official retirement date is July 9.

Attached is a high-resolution image of Ginzel.

About Music City Center

Located in the heart of downtown Nashville, Music City Center is a 2.1 million square foot convention center with more than 353,000 square feet of exhibit hall space, two ballrooms, 55 meeting rooms, and a covered parking garage with 1,800 spaces. The mission of MCC is to create significant economic benefit for the greater Nashville area, while focusing on community inclusion, sustainability, and exceptional customer service, through conventions, trade shows, and community events.

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