Adam J. Straight comes to Omaha from New Orleans, Louisiana, where he served as the Chief Operating Officer of the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (MCCNO), the nation’s sixth largest convention center, overseeing the Convention Center’s day-to-day operations.
Straight’s time in the Big Easy was defined by community partnership, pandemic response, sustainability efforts, and transformative capital projects.
In his seven years at the MCCNO, Straight managed a $73 million annual operating budget, achieved LEED Gold Certification and re-certification through comprehensive sustainability initiatives, led a $763 million Capital Improvement Plan, modernizing and renovating the interior and exterior of the Convention Center, and oversaw the planning and execution of the $1.5 billion River District Development, creating a mixed-use entertainment district adjacent to the MCCNO.
Before his time in New Orleans, Straight worked at the Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA) in Atlanta, which encompasses the Georgia World Congress Center, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and Centennial Olympic Park, where he managed daily operations as Senior Director of Operations. Under his leadership, Straight and his team oversaw multiple large events such as NCAA Final Fours, a Super Bowl, and the NCAA College Football Playoff Championship.
Also, while in Atlanta, Straight was tapped to be the Executive in Charge/Owners Representative of Mercedes-Benz Stadium for a $1.9 billion construction project, along with heading up other prominent large-scale projects, including the Centennial Olympic Park renovation ($29 million) and the Exhibit Hall Expansion ($55 million).
In 2001, Straight’s journey in the events venue industry began at the University of Maryland. Over the span of 10 years, Straight worked his way up to Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Facilities Management, overseeing operations for 14 athletic venues, including Comcast Center and Byrd Stadium. Straight also managed the planning, construction, and opening of Maryland’s $13.5 million football renovation.
A veteran of the United States Coast Guard, Straight received numerous accolades and commendations for his service. In 2024, Straight was named to the City Business Power 20 Tourism & Hospitality list, honoring the 20 most influential leaders in the New Orleans tourism and hospitality sector.
Married to his wife, Alyson, and a father of two sons, Silas and Peyton, Straight is actively involved in his community. He regularly volunteers his time to several different initiatives and organizations.