The Panama Convention Center (PCC), in partnership with Legends Global, has announced the appointment of Pablo de la Guardia as the new General Manager of the Panama Convention Center. With more than two decades of leadership experience in aviation, government relations, and strategic partnerships, de la Guardia will lead the venue’s operations while strengthening its position as one of Latin America’s leading destinations for international meetings, exhibitions, and conventions.
Pablo de la Guardia to Lead Panama Convention Center Operations
As General Manager, Pablo de la Guardia will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Panama Convention Center, including venue management, client services, event execution, revenue performance, and staff leadership. His responsibilities will also include expanding the venue’s event calendar, enhancing customer experience, and developing strategic partnerships that support the center’s long-term growth.
He will work closely with government agencies, tourism organizations, business development groups, corporate clients, and international associations to attract major events and reinforce Panama’s reputation as a global business events destination.
More Than 20 Years of Leadership Experience
De la Guardia brings over 20 years of executive experience in government affairs, business development, and strategic alliances. Before joining the Panama Convention Center, he spent more than two decades with Copa Airlines, where he most recently served as Senior Director of Government Affairs.
During his tenure, he managed regulatory and government relations across Panama and more than 30 countries throughout Latin America. His work involved close collaboration with aviation authorities, airports, airlines, and industry organizations to strengthen regional connectivity and business opportunities.
Proven Success in Strategic Partnerships
Earlier in his career at Copa Airlines, de la Guardia served as Director of Strategic Alliances, where he managed the airline’s partnerships with Star Alliance, one of the world’s largest airline networks.
His leadership helped generate an average annual partnership revenue growth of approximately 12 percent between 2006 and 2012, demonstrating his expertise in building successful international collaborations and expanding commercial opportunities.
Experience with the Inter-American Development Bank
In addition to his airline career, de la Guardia also worked as a consultant for the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), evaluating investment projects across Latin America. This experience further strengthened his understanding of regional economic development, infrastructure, and international business.
Tourism Leaders Welcome the Appointment
Panama’s Minister of Tourism, Gloria De León, highlighted the importance of the Panama Convention Center in supporting tourism, employment, and economic development across the country.
Meanwhile, Josh Kritzler, President of North American Venues and Content at Legends Global, said de la Guardia’s extensive experience in government affairs, strategic business development, and deep understanding of Panama’s market make him an ideal choice to lead the convention center into its next phase of growth.
Pablo de la Guardia Shares His Vision
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Pablo de la Guardia said he is honored to join the teams at the Panama Convention Center and Legends Global.
He emphasized that Panama continues to strengthen its position as a major hub for international business and events, adding that he looks forward to working with partners across the industry to expand the venue’s success and establish it as the premier convention destination in Latin America.
About the Panama Convention Center
Located in Panama City, the Panama Convention Center is one of the largest and most modern convention venues in the region. The facility features approximately 165,800 square feet of exhibition space, a 43,000-square-foot ballroom, 16 meeting rooms offering more than 25,800 square feet of meeting space, 1,700 parking spaces, and a commercial kitchen capable of serving over 7,000 guests.
The venue regularly hosts international exhibitions, conventions, corporate meetings, and large-scale business events, making it a key contributor to Panama’s growing meetings and events industry.
About Legends Global
Legends Global is a leading provider of venue management and premium services for sports, entertainment, and live events. The company offers expertise in venue operations, hospitality, sales, sponsorships, partnerships, booking, consulting, merchandise, and event management, supporting venues and brands around the world.
