The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (NOENMCC) has promoted Elaine Williams, CMP, CEM-AP, to Chief Commercial Officer (CCO). In this role, Williams will continue overseeing the development and execution of strategies to drive growth and attract high-profile events. As CCO, Williams will work closely with all aspects of sales, marketing, event services and operations to optimize the Convention Center’s stance as a key destination for any event.
Formerly the Convention Center’s Senior Director of Sales and Event Services, Williams was appointed interim CCO in November 2024 when former CCO Tim Hemphill announced his transition into a part-time executive advisor role after 17 years with the Convention Center, now to serve as the Acting Chief Communications Officer.
“I am pleased to officially welcome Elaine as the Convention Center’s new Chief Commercial Officer,” said Alita Caparotta, Convention Center Interim President and CEO. “With over 25 years of experience at the Convention Center, Elaine comes to the CCO role with an impressive track record of intelligent leadership, operational excellence, sales insight and events expertise.”
Williams began her career at the NOENMCC in 1996 as a sales manager for Aramark. After joining the Convention Center’s sales team in 2007 as a national sales manager, she was promoted to director of sales in 2013. In addition to serving on the Board of Directors for the International Association of Exhibitions and Events, one of the largest associations in the events industry, Elaine is on the Board of Governors for the International Association of Venue Managers’ Senior Executive Symposium.
Concurrently with her extensive career at the Convention Center, Williams cemented herself as a respected industry leader. She was awarded the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation from the Events Industry Council, earned a Certification in Exhibition Management (CEM), completed her CEM-AP (Advanced Professional) and is currently pursuing a Certified Venue Executive (CVE) designation by the International Association of Venue Managers. In 2022, Williams was nominated for the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Supplier of the Year award. Most recently in 2024, Williams was elected to the Board of Directors for the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE), recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Venue Professionals by Eventex and named one of New Orleans CityBusiness’ Women of the Year.
“As someone who has had the privilege of being part of this incredible team for many years, I am deeply honored to step permanently into this role of Chief Commercial Officer,” said Williams. “I look forward to building on our legacy of excellence and collaborating with our community, clients and partners to ensure the Convention Center remains a leader for events, innovation and growth.”
