The San Diego Convention Center Corp. has hired Karen Totaro as senior vice president and general manager, it was announced Thursday.
Totaro most recently served in the same position at the Atlantic City Convention Center, and previously held management positions at several other centers.
On Twitter, Totaro describes herself as “Venue Champion, Chicago Bear fanatic, would take bullet for Bob Seger, love big bold reds, Powell’s & living life as if something wonderful is about to happen!”
The San Diego Convention Center has been in a leadership transition this year following the retirement of longtime President and CEO Carol Wallace. She was replaced by industry veteran Clifford Rippetoe in April.
“We are excited to have someone of Karen’s standards and qualifications join us here at the San Diego Convention Center,” Rippetoe said. “We look forward to welcoming her to a facility whose purpose is to be the premiere gathering place located at the heart of a world-class destination.”
She’ll oversee operations of the facility like engineering, event services, security and guest services, and information technology. She will also serve as the liaison and contract manager for contractors when she begins the job Sept. 30.
— City News Service contributed to this report.
