PEORIA, Ill. – The Peoria Civic Center has named Beau Sutherland as its permanent general manager, ending a search that began following the departure of Rik Edgar earlier this year.
Sutherland has served as interim general manager since June 1 and previously held the position of assistant general manager. He began his career at the facility in August 2000, making him one of its longest-tenured employees to assume the top role.
Throughout his more than two decades at the Civic Center, Sutherland has held leadership positions in sales, marketing and business development. He also concurrently served as Regional Marketing Director for ASM Global, providing strategic support to venue marketing teams nationwide.
Under his leadership, Fiscal Year 2025 became the strongest year in Peoria Civic Center history for convention center performance and overall venue revenue.
Among his notable achievements is securing the naming rights partnership for the Prairie Home Alliance Theater and establishing a partnership with CXT Coffee that resulted in a café being built inside the Civic Center.
Peoria Civic Center Authority Board Chair Rick Semonis praised the appointment.
“Beau’s impact extends far beyond the walls of the Peoria Civic Center,” Semonis said. “His passion for the Civic Center, deep understanding of our market, and vision for the future make him the right leader to guide the facility into its next chapter.”
Sutherland expressed gratitude for the opportunity.
“This facility has been my professional home for more than two decades, and I have had the privilege of working alongside an exceptionally talented team,” Sutherland said. “I look forward to building on our success, bringing new events and opportunities to Peoria, and expanding the Civic Center’s role as a driving force for Central Illinois.”
As general manager, Sutherland will oversee all operations of the Peoria Civic Center, including the Prairie Home Alliance Theater, arena and convention center. He will work with the Peoria Civic Center Authority, Legends Global, building tenants and community stakeholders.
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