These interviews are part of a series that highlights new hires within the industry. Have you recently started a new role or do you know someone who has? Submit your ideas to brittany.trevick@tigeroak.com.
Daniel Corcoran was recently hired as the chief operating officer for the Corcoran Expositions.
1. What are you looking forward to in your new role as chief operating officer at Corcoran Expositions?
Working with our outstanding team to ensure Corcoran Expositions continues to deliver a cutting-edge product with the best customer service in the industry. Also drawing on my experiences working within different departments here to foster greater inter-departmental engagement.
2. How do you think your past industry experience has prepared you for this role?
Trade shows have been a part of our family since I was very young. I remember my dad sneaking me into McCormick Place after hours and driving me around on the back of a cart in the ‘80s (I don’t want to get him in trouble, but I think the statute of limitations has passed!). My first full-time job at Corcoran was as an exhibit sales rep, which ingrained in me an appreciation for the core of our business. I’ve also worked as an exhibit manager and most recently our sales director, giving me a broader understanding of how different parts of our business operate.
3. What goals do you have in mind for the company for this year and further down the line?
My job will be to look at the company as a whole and identify cross-departmental strategies and best practices that will benefit our clients. This includes sales, exhibit managers, contract administration and technology. The first step is taking inventory of all of our processes, identifying best practices and then looking at how we can apply them to other areas of the business.
4. How did you get into the industry?
In Chicago we like to say, “I know a guy.” Joking aside—in 2009 I decided to leave my previous profession as a civil engineer and pursue an MBA. I started working part-time in our accounting department to help defray the costs of school. While my intention was not initially to stay, I really grew to love our team and our industry and I’ve been here ever since.
5. What do you enjoy most about the organization?
I think the cornerstone of our business, and really our entire industry, is the importance of relationships and relationship-building. It’s especially important in a family business. Our name is on the door; you know who we are and we’re always going to be here for you. It’s why our clients stay with us an average of 10 years and our employees even longer. When you work on a team with professionals that are passionate about what they do it is fun!
I’m also allowed to drive the carts myself now, which is nice.
