Chicago Auto Show’s Chris Konecki to Lead McCormick Place
By Jonathan Trager
Chris Konecki has returned to McCormick Place in Chicago as General Manager, bringing more than two decades of experience producing one of the country’s largest auto shows to the job.
The Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA), which owns McCormick Place, appointed Konecki to the position following a national search. He began his new role at the nation’s largest convention center on August 24.
Konecki spent 16 years earlier in his career with McCormick Place, including serving as an event manager. He later joined the Chicago Automobile Trade Association, where he spent more than 20 years and most recently served as executive vice president and director of auto show operations.
That experience gives Konecki a perspective from both sides of the convention business as he takes over daily operations at the 2.6 million-square-foot convention center.
“McCormick Place is one of the most iconic venues in the meetings and events industry, and it is an honor to once again join this extraordinary team,” Konecki said.
“This campus played an important role in my professional development, and I am excited to return.”
Konecki will oversee employees and work with customers, labor partners, hospitality stakeholders, and event organizers. McCormick Place boasts four buildings, 173 meeting rooms, and the Arie Crown Theater. The campus hosts about 3 million visitors annually.
MPEA CEO Larita Clark said Konecki’s experience was a key factor in his selection.
“Chris is a respected leader who understands what makes McCormick Place special—our people, our customers and our commitment to service,” Clark said. She said the search drew candidates from across the country but Konecki stood out for his combination of operational experience, industry leadership, and customer perspective.
His return comes as MPEA again oversees McCormick Place after reassuming management of the convention center in 2025.
Konecki’s background with the Chicago Auto Show included working with exhibitors, sponsors, contractors, labor partners, and venue operators. MPEA said that experience gives him firsthand knowledge of the needs of event organizers as he returns to the facility where his career began.