(Atlanta, GA) - Mark Zimmerman has been named general manager of the Georgia World Congress Center, effective Nov.1. Dan Graveline, Georgia World Congress Center Executive Director, announced the appointment on Aug. 31.

Zimmerman will succeed John Smith, who retires from the Georgia World Congress Center Authority after serving over thirty years with the State of Georgia.

"John's leadership has certainly brought us great success," said Graveline. "We hate to see him leave the organization, but congratulate him on his retirement and continued success as an educator." Smith will continue his career as an adjunct professor at Georgia State University's Cecil B. Day School of Hospitality Administration.

As general manager, Zimmerman will be responsible for managing over 400 employees at the nation's fourth largest convention center and overseeing the marketing and operations of the facility. Zimmerman has 20 years of industry experience, most recently serving as assistant general manager at the Georgia World Congress Center. He began his career in 1984 as a concessions supervisor at the convention center and two years later was promoted to senior event coordinator and later director of event services. Over the years, he has filled key positions for numerous high-profile events, including the 1988 Democratic National Convention, the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games and Super Bowl XXXIV in 2000. He served as assistant general manager of the Cobb Galleria from1992 to 1995, before returning to the GWCC as assistant general manager.

"Mark's experience and dedication, as well as his expertise in the convention and hospitality industry, make him a great selection as the center's new general manager," said Graveline.

Zimmerman is an active member of the International Association of Assembly Managers (IAAM), the International Association of Exposition Managers (IAEM) and the Exhibit Service Contractors Association (ESCA).

He and his wife Karen have four children - Heidi, Grant, Katie and Elliot.