ATLANTA—Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA) has appointed Stacey Church as its new chief operating officer (COO), effective Feb. 10, 2025. She is the first female COO in the organization’s 50-year history.
Church previously served in GWCCA’s leadership team in Dallas Fair Park, Texas, as general manager. Her career also includes almost five years as assistant general manager at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, leadership roles at Fort Worth Convention Center, MassMutual Center in Springfield, Mass., and Kentucky International Convention Center in Louisville, where she oversaw the reopening of the newly renovated convention center.
“Stacey’s extensive experience and proven track record in operational leadership make her the ideal choice for this pivotal role,” said Kevin Duvall, chief executive officer of GWCCA. “Her vision, dedication, and passion for the industry, cultivated over a distinguished career spanning more than two decades in venue management, will be invaluable as we continue to enhance the GWCCA campus and deliver compelling experiences to our guests and partners.”
Church earned her certified venue executive designation in 2022. Currently, she serves as the second vice chair of International Association of Venue Managers and will assume the chair position in 2026—becoming the third representative from GWCCA to hold this prestigious industry role.
“I am honored to join GWCCA and contribute to its legacy of excellence,” says Church. “I look forward to working with our board, partners, and all of the talented team members to further the Authority’s mission of driving continued economic vitality for the state while serving as one of the nation’s top destinations for conventions and sporting and entertainment events.”
