Having attracted big-name bands and events to a small town in British Columbia, Ryan MacIvor will now attempt to bring similar acts to Mosaic Place and make Moose Jaw a destination attraction.
During its Sept. 23 regular meeting, city council voted 6-1 to approve the appointment of MacIvor as the general manager of Mosaic Place, based on a recommendation from Spectra Venue Management Services, which council hired this past summer to run the building.
Coun. Brian Swanson was opposed.
MacIvor has more than 10 years of experience as the general manager of the EnCana Events Centre in Dawson Creek, B.C., explained city manager Jim Puffalt. He has attracted several events both large and small, such as KISS, the Dixie Chicks, Motley Crew, Def Leppard and Carrie Underwood. He has also brought in events for hockey, curling and skating.
“As the general manager of an isolated events centre, he was instrumental in creating their own events,” Puffalt said. “The City of Moose Jaw and Mosaic Place are fortunate to have a candidate with these credentials as we move forward with Spectra Venue Management Services.”
MacIvor told city council he had spent the last eight days in Moose Jaw becoming familiar with the community. He planned to fly back to Dawson Creek soon to pack up his house, finish up any leftover business and prepare his family for the move.
“It’s exciting times for myself and the company. We’re excited to work with you in partnership and collaborate in terms of opportunities … ,” MacIvor said. This includes creating new events and opportunities for the community, for Mosaic Place and the Ford Curling Centre.
Although he had been in Moose Jaw for a total of 10 days, MacIvor had already reached out to the WHL’s Moose Jaw Warriors, the different naming-rights partners at Mosaic Place, and staff there to introduce himself and Spectra and start the process of moving the building forward. He thought it was time to make Mosaic Place a “formidable venue” within Central Canada.
The next regular council meeting is Tuesday, Oct. 15.
