The New York Convention Center Operating Cooperation (NYCCOC) announced today that Joyce Leveston (CMM, CVP) will be appointed as the new chief executive officer of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. The announcement follows a vote in support by the NYCCOC Board of Directors of the executive search committee’s unanimous recommendation.
Leveston will join the Javits team on Monday, February 10, 2025. After a short transition period, she will officially assume the role of CEO on Monday, March 10, 2025.
“We conducted a national search and are thrilled to select Joyce Leveston, who embodies the vision and passion that will propel the Jacob Javits Center into a new era of innovation and excellence,” said Hugh Carey, Vice Chair of the NYCCOC Board of Directors and Chair of the search committee. “Her leadership will not only inspire our team but will also enhance the experience for all who walk through our doors. We are excited to welcome her as our new Chief Executive Officer, we are confident that her enthusiasm and strategic insight will transform the Javits Center into a global beacon of creativity, class and collaboration.”
Leveston brings over 30 years of high-caliber industry experience to the chief executive officer role. Most recently, she was the Senior Vice President of Convention Centers at Oak View Group, where she oversaw strategy and operations for more than 60 convention and conference centers in the OVG360 portfolio. She has worked in convention centers across the country, including holding senior positions at Boston’s Hynes Convention Center, Boston Convention & Exhibitions Center, Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington D.C., Miami Beach Convention Center, George R Brown Convention Center in Houston and the San Diego Convention Center Corporation. Additionally, Leveston has worked on high-profile special events such as fan fests for the Super Bowl, NBA All-Star Weekend and MLB All-Star Weekend; presidential inaugural balls; the Nuclear Security Summit for President Obama; the International AIDS Convention; the White House State of Women Summit; and Art Basel Miami.
“As soon as we spoke to Joyce during the interview process, we knew she was the person to lead Javits Center into the future,” said Lee Perlman, Chair of the NYCCOC Board of Directors. “Her dynamism and hands-on experience will serve Javits well as she guides our team through the ever-changing events industry landscape. I am excited to work with her for the years to come to grow Javits Center’s reputation as one of the premier convention centers in the country.”
In addition to her extensive experience, Leveston is well-known for providing exceptional customer experience and leading with authenticity. Her passion for the hospitality industry has led to strong relationships across the convention center sector and beyond. She holds memberships with IAEE, ASAE, PCMA, IAVM, SISO, MPI and AIPC.
Leveston’s appointment marks the first time a woman has held the chief executive officer position at Javits Center.
“Leading the convention center division at Oak View Group has been an amazing part of my journey and I am so appreciative of the people who have supported and encouraged me to be my authentic self,” said Leveston. “My mission throughout my career has been to inspire, empower and shine a light on the incredible talent that is rebuilding the industry with resilience and positive spirit. I’m eager to bring my passion for the industry to New York and to lead the talented team at Javits Center with conviction as we position Javits as a premier convention and meetings destination on an international scale. It is with deep compassion and sincere gratitude that I take up the torch to continue elevating the work that Alan Steel and the NYCCOC have started at Javits, from creating sustainable options, driving innovative solutions, and pursuing a brand that welcomes a diverse array of events.”
As chief executive officer, Leveston will be responsible for championing Javits Center’s mission to serve as a catalyst for the economic development of New York. She will be tasked with attracting world-class events while maintaining Javits Center’s position as a leader in sustainability, security and technology.
Leveston will succeed Alan Steel who has served as chief executive officer for the last 12 years. During his tenure, he successfully led the center through significant challenges, including navigating the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy and the COVID pandemic, while also overseeing the completion of the building’s $375 million renovation and $1.35 billion expansion. He also spearheaded advancements in technology infrastructure, championed sustainability initiatives, and played a pivotal role in establishing the event industry’s Net Zero Carbon Events Pledge.
“I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to have led this institution through such a transformative era and proud of all the work we were able to accomplish,” said Steel. “I feel very confident that Javits Center will continue to thrive in Joyce Leveston’s capable hands.”
