Spartanburg events venue names new CEO

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Roger Newton is set to be the new CEO of the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium.

Newton will take on his new role beginning Oct. 3, according to a news release from the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium Commission.

“Roger’s extensive background in the management of public assembly venues, along with his connections in the concert and entertainment industries, make him a great fit for this position,” William Blackford, chairman of the commission, said in the release. “His work as a consultant for the auditorium over the past few months has demonstrated to the Commission what we believe the Auditorium can become under his leadership. We are excited about the future of the auditorium and are confident in Roger’s ability to lead the organization into this new chapter in the history of this iconic venue.”

Newton has an extensive career in the management of public assembly venues, including his tenure as general manager of Nassau Coliseum in Long Island, New York, general manager of the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Canada, executive vice president/general manager of the FTX Arena in Miami, general manager of the Fargodome in Fargo, North Dakota, president/general manager of the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, S.C., and president/general manager of the CCNB Amphitheater in Simpsonville, S.C., according to the release

“I am honored to be the new CEO and the successor of an incredible leader, Steve Jones, who served as general manager of the Auditorium for 35 years,” said Newton in the release. “The commission board members are engaged, enthusiastic, and excited about the future of the auditorium. I share in their vision and look forward to working with each of them, the auditorium staff, and the Spartanburg community to grow the number of events and increase activity at the auditorium.

“Spartanburg is experiencing tremendous growth, and the auditorium is well-positioned to work hand in hand with community leaders to bring more events and add to the quality of life of this great city.”

Newton will oversee all aspects of the management and operation of the auditorium, including managing an annual budget, supervising staff, facilitating capital improvements and managing improvement projects, the release stated. Newton will also be responsible for soliciting and booking events at the Auditorium, marketing, sponsorships, and ticketing, and maintaining relationships with media outlets, community leaders, and government officials.

The Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium is a performing arts venue located in downtown Spartanburg, according to the release. Established in 1951, the auditorium includes a 3,244-seat theatre with one of the largest stages in the Southeast, and an events center with 13,638 square feet of exhibit space.