McCormick Place Layoffs: Oak View Group Cuts Jobs After Losing Venue Contract
In April 2025, Oak View Group (OVG) confirmed the layoff of employees tied to its operations at McCormick Place in Chicago, following the loss of its venue management contract. The workforce reduction is part of a broader restructuring effort and affected a substantial portion of the staff dedicated to managing events at the nation's largest convention center.
What Led to the Layoffs
Oak View Group had been the official venue manager of McCormick Place, overseeing events, logistics, staffing, and hospitality services. However, the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA), which owns McCormick Place, opted to transition to a new management partner starting mid-2025. As a result, OVG lost its contract and began winding down operations at the facility.
The decision followed a strategic review by MPEA aimed at improving operational efficiency and service quality across its venues. Though not a reflection of misconduct, the contract non-renewal left Oak View Group without a role at one of its largest regional clients.
Impact on Employees and Chicago’s Event Industry
The layoffs impacted employees across various roles, including event coordination, customer service, catering, logistics, and facilities support. Many staff members had built careers at McCormick Place and were caught off guard by the abrupt change.
Local officials expressed concern about the layoffs' ripple effects on Chicago’s convention and tourism economy. McCormick Place serves as a vital economic engine for the city, and changes in its operations can affect everything from hotel bookings to small business vendors.
OVG stated it would support affected employees through severance packages and job placement assistance, while also urging the incoming venue operator to prioritize hiring displaced staff.
Broader Implications for Venue Management
This event illustrates the volatility of venue management contracts and the vulnerability of local jobs tied to large-scale public-private partnerships. It also emphasizes how management transitions—even routine ones—can deeply affect workers and communities.
As convention centers nationwide face rising expectations for technology integration, sustainability, and customer experience, organizations like MPEA are increasingly reevaluating vendor partnerships to meet evolving goals.
