About FFMA

 



And in 2019 became:



HISTORY

In June 1985, a few arena managers in Florida met informally in Amelia Island to network and discuss common issues unique to their facilities. The conference was so successful the group decided to get together on an annual basis. Within four years, they realized many of their challenges were shared by other facilities of various sizes and types that were not represented at these annual conferences.

As a result a decision was made to formalize the group into the Florida Facility Managers Association (FFMA). The FFMA then invited all public assembly facility managers and their top administrative staff to join. In the mid 1990's the association revised its bylaws to enable presenters of public assembly events to become members, recognizing this would better represent the industry within the state. The FFMA continues to grow and evolve as an industry leader in public assembly management in Florida.

In 2019, the members voted to change the name of the Association to Florida Venue Managers Association (FVMA). The organization updated the name to allow for better definition of our members' function within the industry and will continue with the current vision, mission and objectives. 

PAST PRESIDENTS

Craig Borkon (present) 2023-2025
Anthony Camarillo2021-2023
Lynda Reinhart2019-2021
Dave Anderson    2017-2019
Scott Glaser2015 - 2017
Jason Rittenberry, CFE2015 - partial term
Kim Stone            2013-2015
Judy Joseph2011-2013
Mickey Farrell2008-2011
Rick Hamilton2007-2008
Lionel Dubay2005-2007
Mary Bensel2003-2005
Mike LaPan, CFE2001-2003
Rogert Englert1999-2001
Bill Becker1997-1999
Allen Johnson, CFE1995-1997
Mike LaPan, CFE1993-1995
Lionel Dubay1991-1993
Ron Spencer1989-1991

FFMA FOUNDERS
 
Ron SpencerTallahassee Leon County Civic Center, Tallahassee
Lionel J. DubayStephen C. O’Connell Center, Gainesville
Rick LinioJacksonville Memorial Auditorium, Jacksonville
Mike LaPan, CFESun Dome,Tampa
Charlie ThomasSun Dome,Tampa
Bob WeaverTampa Fairgrounds,Tampa
Donna DowlessLakeland Civic Center, Lakeland
Norman JonesFort Meyers Civic Center, Fort Meyers
Larry UpdikePensacola Civic Center, Pensacola
Phil ScottBayfront Center, St. Petersburg
 

VISION STATEMENT

To be the leader of the State of Florida public assembly facility industry.


MISSION STATEMENT

To promote and serve Florida's public assembly facility industry.


OBJECTIVES

Promote and develop professionalism in the management and presentation of public assembly events.

Monitor legislative and governmental regulations.

Standardize business practices with promoters, presenter organizations, the public and vendors.

Cultivate professional relationships and cooperation among facility managers and presenters for the betterment of the citizens and visitors of the state.

Identify trends and develop cooperative solutions to industry challenges.

Provide programs focused on the specific interests and needs of the public assembly facilities and event presenters.


MEMBERSHIP

Membership is open to any person in the senior level management of either an existing or under construction arena, racetrack, auditorium/theater, stadium, convention/exhibit hall or outside amphitheater, or presenter organization of events in the State of Florida.

Member benefits: networking, education, legislative support, scholarships, newsletter, web site and professional development.


ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Held every June, FFMA - FVMA's annual conference is the perfect opportunity to build relationships and exchange ideas with peers. The conference offers face-to-face opportunities to connect with artists' agents, promoters and suppliers. Education is provided through a variety of speakers and panel discussions seeking solutions to the most current issues. A program favorite is an opportunity to learn about the latest in the entertainment industry from a panel of promoters and agents. Members are kept up to date on industry trends and legislative issues in Florida as well as nationwide.

History of FFMA - FVMA Annual Conference Locations

2022-2025Hutchinson Island Resort & Spa    Jensen Beach
2021RP Funding CenterLakeland
2019Four Seasons ResortPalm Beach
2017-2018    The Eau    Palm Beach
2002-2016Four Seasons ResortPalm Beach
2001RegistryNaples
2000Mission InnHowie-in-the-Hills
1999Amelia IslandJacksonville
1998            PGA WestPalm Beach
1997Caribe Royale ResortOrlando
1996Buena Vista PalaceOrlando
1993-1995       Turnberry Isle Resort & ClubAventura
1992Saddlebrook Golf & Tennis ResortTampa 
1991Palm Beach Polo & Country ClubPalm Beach
1990    PGA WestPalm Beach
1989Saddlebrook Golf & Tennis ResortTampa
1985-1988Amelia IslandJacksonville
 

OPERATIONS SEMINAR

Hosted by a member facility once a year this seminar provides excellent training on industry practices for administrative staff, mid-level managers and operations personnel. It is an opportunity to network with each other, share ideas and obtain career advice from directors of Florida facilities and event presenters. Educational topics include crowd management, group sales, marketing and promotion, rigging, customer service, risk management, safety and security, ticketing, plus team building and leadership.