VenueConnect 2025

Vanessa Gonzalez
General Manager
Mesa Convention Center


With two decades of experience in venue and event management, Vanessa Gonzalez is a seasoned executive in public assembly venue operations, known for driving operational excellence, exceeding revenue targets, and cultivating strong relationships with stakeholders and partners. As General Manager for the City of Mesa, she oversees the strategic and day-to-day management of the Mesa Convention Center, Mesa Amphitheatre, and The Post—Downtown Mesa’s newest event venue. In this role, she leads cross-functional teams in sales, marketing, operations, and administration while managing a multimillion-dollar operating and capital budget. Vanessa has consistently demonstrated the ability to transform public venues into dynamic economic drivers. Her leadership includes implementing innovative sales and marketing strategies, negotiating high-value contracts, and building lasting partnerships with tourism bureaus, hospitality organizations, and community stakeholders. Her work has directly contributed to increased revenues, enhanced community engagement, and expanded economic impact for the cities she has served. Before stepping into her current role, Vanessa held key leadership positions with the cities of Mesa, Chandler, and Phoenix, where she gained extensive experience in event coordination, public engagement, brand development, and municipal operations. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration from Arizona State University and is recognized for her collaborative leadership style grounded in integrity, vision, and measurable results.

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