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 Camarillo | 2021-2023 |
| Lynda Reinhart | 2019-2021 |
| Dave Anderson | 2017-2019 |
| Scott Glaser | 2015 - 2017 |
| Jason Rittenberry, CFE | 2015 - partial term |
| Kim Stone | 2013-2015 |
| Judy Joseph | 2011-2013 |
| Mickey Farrell | 2008-2011 |
| Rick Hamilton | 2007-2008 |
| Lionel Dubay | 2005-2007 |
| Mary Bensel | 2003-2005 |
| Mike LaPan, CFE | 2001-2003 |
| Rogert Englert | 1999-2001 |
| Bill Becker | 1997-1999 |
| Allen Johnson, CFE | 1995-1997 |
| Mike LaPan, CFE | 1993-1995 |
| Lionel Dubay | 1991-1993 |
| Ron Spencer | 1989-1991 |
FFMA FOUNDERS
| Ron Spencer | Tallahassee Leon County Civic Center, Tallahassee |
| Lionel J. Dubay | Stephen C. O’Connell Center, Gainesville |
| Rick Linio | Jacksonville Memorial Auditorium, Jacksonville |
| Mike LaPan, CFE | Sun Dome,Tampa |
| Charlie Thomas | Sun Dome,Tampa |
| Bob Weaver | Tampa Fairgrounds,Tampa |
| Donna Dowless | Lakeland Civic Center, Lakeland |
| Norman Jones | Fort Meyers Civic Center, Fort Meyers |
| Larry Updike | Pensacola Civic Center, Pensacola |
| Phil Scott | Bayfront 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 | Hutchinson Island Resort & Spa | Jensen Beach | |
| 2021 | RP Funding Center | Lakeland | |
| 2019 | Four Seasons Resort | Palm Beach | |
| 2017-2018 | The Eau | Palm Beach | |
| 2002-2016 | Four Seasons Resort | Palm Beach | |
| 2001 | Registry | Naples | |
| 2000 | Mission Inn | Howie-in-the-Hills | |
| 1999 | Amelia Island | Jacksonville | |
| 1998 | PGA West | Palm Beach | |
| 1997 | Caribe Royale Resort | Orlando | |
| 1996 | Buena Vista Palace | Orlando | |
| 1993-1995 | Turnberry Isle Resort & Club | Aventura | |
| 1992 | Saddlebrook Golf & Tennis Resort | Tampa | |
| 1991 | Palm Beach Polo & Country Club | Palm Beach | |
| 1990 | PGA West | Palm Beach | |
| 1989 | Saddlebrook Golf & Tennis Resort | Tampa | |
| 1985-1988 | Amelia Island | Jacksonville |
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.
