Russell Read, CFE, CMP is the director of experience and tourism
for the City of Cedar Hill, Texas By Matt Hollander, CFE
You began your career as an educator. How did that experience influence your view of professional development and your de- sire to seek certification? young to understand how important it was and I was not aware that venue management could be a career. I always knew I wanted to run a theater, but that career path was outside the educational route so like many far great venue managers before me I became a scene designer. What my time as an educator did teach me was to never stop learning, and that led me to IAVM, back then IAAM.
Your professional experiences are unique in scope. You have taught theater students, worked as a practitioner in venues, and worked for a major manufacturer who provides intelli- gent lighting technology to our industry. How do you think this shapes your perspective about the venue management indus- try and the professionals who work in the industry? You forgot pyro technician! I can’t leave out that I got to blow things up for a living. All kidding aside, I have been so lucky to have had a when it comes to venue management as I have experienced most every part of the entertainment industry in all venue types. Being a jack-of- all-trades gives me the ability to understand all points of view within the industry.
As of the time of this interview, you are in the process of transi- tioning to a new chapter in your career. Tell us about this move. The City of Cedar Hill is located just south of Dallas and is a com- munity that has strategically managed its growth. If anyone has ever heard me speak about it I call it Paradise and I’m truly very lucky to be a part of this community. “A City Within a Park” motto represents the feel of the city. As it has slowly grown over the years, it has transi- tioned from a bedroom community to an established city with all of its resources. A big part of those resources are public assembly facilities like convention centers and PACs. Building these resources and the strategies, development, and PR to make it happen will be a major part of my new job.
You have participated in leadership programs within your community and have clearly focused on continuously devel- oping yourself as a professional. What motivated you to seek the designation of Certified Facilities Executive? I didn’t know I had a choice – Rodney Smith and Robyn William said if it were not for them I may have given up. I knew early on that I had at how much the industry has changed since I graduated from college. At some point, probably with IAVM’s help, I came to understand that our venues are a big part of the community, sometimes even being the spark to change and create a better community. If you don’t partici- pate in all of the communities involved with a facility you can’t fully be part of that community.
12 Facility Manager Magazine
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