New General Manager for Convention Center Operator ASM Global
ASM Global
A veteran of the hospitality industry is the new General Manager for ASM Global, the international firm that operates Anchorage’s city-owned convention centers. The company hired Steve Rader, previously general manager of The Lakefront Anchorage hotel.
In this new position, Rader manages day-to-day functions at the Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center and the William A. Egan Civic and Convention Center. ASM Global, which operates more than 350 of the world’s most prestigious arenas, has had the contract to run Anchorage convention centers since 2000.
“I am thrilled to be joining the dedicated team at the Anchorage Convention Centers,” says Rader. “I look forward to fostering the current culture of excellence while encouraging innovation and further community engagement. Together we will create unforgettable experiences and elevate Anchorage as a premier destination for conferences and events of all kinds.”
Rader has nearly two decades of experience in the Alaska hospitality and events space. In addition to managing The Lakefront Anchorage complex, he also recently oversaw another Millennium brand hotel in Arizona, the McCormick Scottsdale. Previously, he served as general manager of the Hilton Anchorage and held various leadership positions with Marriott Anchorage Downtown, WeTravel, and Holland America.
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September 2026
“Steve will bring an entirely new perspective to the Anchorage Convention Centers,” says Michael Krouse, regional vice president of convention centers West for ASM Global. “This was an exhaustive search to ensure we met and exceeded the goals of both the city of Anchorage and Visit Anchorage, who worked closely with us throughout this process.”
Julie Saupe, president and CEO of Visit Anchorage, says, “Steve brings not only operations and food and beverage experience but also has a strong sales and customer service background that will serve the Dena’ina and Egan Centers well. His experience in the meetings and events space, combined with his existing network of local contacts, has been put to use already and will be valuable to convention center clients.”
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