NATHANAEL ‘NATE’ HARRIS

GENERAL MANAGER, GREATER RICHMOND CONVENTION CENTER, RICHMOND

Nate Harris took charge of the largest exhibition and meeting facility in Virginia, the 700,000-square-foot Greater Richmond Convention Center, in September 2024. With 15 years of experience, he’s no stranger to venue management or Central Virginia, having previously worked as general manager at the Virginia State University Multi-Purpose Center in Ettrick.

Since taking on his new role, Harris has overseen the completion of two capital projects — the installation of a self-service pay system in the convention center’s parking deck and an escalator upgrade — and is focused on additional upcoming improvements, like another escalator upgrade and a new roof.

In 2026, the convention center is expected to host nearly 200 events, attracting more than 430,000 attendees, up from around 350,000 this year. And Harris says his focus will be on “enhancing the client and guest experience through strategic facility upgrades and service innovations, helping position the greater Richmond region as a leading destination in the commonwealth’s growing travel and tourism landscape.”

Richmond, VA (Sept 21, 2025) – North America’s most popular interactive dinosaur experience Jurassic Quest® and Brick Fest Live, the top family LEGO-inspired event, will “assemble” together under one roof for the first time to offer a “dino-mite” weekend of interactive, educational fun at the Greater Richmond Convention Center from Nov. 21-23 – all for one affordable ticket price.

GalaxyCon, the largest independently owned consumer and fan engagement company, is set to make its highly anticipated return to Richmond, Virginia March 27-30, 2025, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Packed with celebrity guests, immersive experiences, and unforgettable entertainment, GalaxyCon Richmond 2025 has now expanded to four incredible days (Thursday-Sunday),  and promises a weekend of excitement for fans of all ages. To accommodate the continued growth of the show, additional show events can also be found at the Richmond Marriott and Richmond Hilton Downtown

The International Erosion Control Association (IECA) is proud to announce the 2025 IECA Annual Conference & Expo, set to take place 25 - 28 February 2025 in the historic city of Richmond, Virginia. This premier event brings together global leaders in erosion and sediment control, stormwater management, and environmental restoration for an engaging opportunity to learn, connect, and innovate.

The Greater Richmond Convention Center (GRCC) has unveiled a new automated parking deck system designed to enhance parking efficiency, improve convenience, and elevate the guest experience. Now fully operational, the advanced system is set to provide visitors with streamlined, user-friendly access to parking, enabling quick and easy entry and exit.

Aramark, the exclusive food and beverage provider at the Greater Richmond Convention Center (GRCC), will transition to a fully cashless payment system at all GRCC concessions and bar outlets starting November 18, 2024. This change reflects Aramark’s commitment to providing a streamlined and secure transaction process, making it faster and easier for guests to enjoy food and beverage services while attending events at the convention center. 

Oak View Group (OVG), managers and operators of The Greater Richmond Convention Center (GRCC), the largest meeting and exhibition facility in the Commonwealth of Virginia, today named Nathanael Harris as its new General Manager. Harris, who begins his new role today, brings more than 15 years of experience in venue management, marketing, and business development to the GRCC, along with a proven track record of operational excellence and innovative leadership in the events and entertainment industry.