Milwaukee World Festival's Don Smiley departing after 2023
MILWAUKEE - The man behind the World's Largest Music Festival has announced it'll be curtains closed on his career with Summerfest.
Don Smiley will be stepping down at the end of 2023 after nearly 20 years of running the Milwaukee World Festival.
"This plan has been in place for a while," he said. "It’s fantastic. When I think about all the artists who come through here, it’s just mind-boggling really."
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The Racine native started with the organization in 2004 under Smiley's leadership $160 million has been invested into the property along the lakefront.
"What that has done and what that has allowed us to do is continue to attract the world’s biggest artists, continue to host events that Milwaukee should be very, very proud of," said Sarah Pancheri.
Don Smiley
Friday, the Milwaukee World Festival board voted longtime Summerfest executive Pancheri as the organization's new president.
She'll be taking the reins as CEO when smiley leaves.
"It’s a privilege of a gig, right? We get to do what we do for our community. We live a non-profit mission which is important to who we are as a community."
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For now, Smiley says he's focused on his role leading the Big Gig.
"I have this year and next year to do my job and make sure it’s done right and make sure that I go sliding into home in a very graceful and elegant way," he said.
Smiley says this is not retirement, and he isn't sure what he'll be doing once he leaves.
Back in March, Summerfest's top booker, Bob Babisch announced he'll be stepping down at the end of this year.
Don Smiley issued the following statement in a news release:
"Sarah is one of the most talented executives I have ever hired and promoted. She has played a crucial role in our success, building an all-star team that continues to create value for our sponsors, partners, and fans. She has forged relationships locally and nationally with a variety of stakeholders who recognize the value of Henry Maier Festival Park and associating with Summerfest presented by American Family Insurance, the World’s Largest Music Festival."
Sarah Pancheri issued this statement:
"I have had the good fortune to grow with this organization and am excited to have an opportunity to further enhance our mission. In partnership with Don, I look forward to continuing to deliver a diverse calendar of events which represents the world’s top talent as well as festivals which consistently engender significant civic pride."