Texas F1 Track, Circuit of the Americas is staffing up

Fans of Formula 1 and other world-class racing series finally coming to the States will be glad to hear that the Circuit of the Americas organization is staffing up with some heavyweight sports entertainment executive -types to run, promote and manage the track. This has to be a good sign that this is going to happen.

For those who’ve been out of the loop, the  Circuit of the Americas track is currently under construction in Austin, Texas.  The first race is scheduled for November 16-18, 2012.

Circuit of the America people tell us that  Ben Cahalane, Danielle Eldridge and Tom Schneider have joined the team. Ben Cahalane has accepted the position of chief sales officer and Danielle Eldridge is the new vice president of Corporate Partnerships. Ben and Danielle are responsible for creating corporate partnerships for advertising and hospitality at Circuit of The Americas. Prior to joining Circuit of The Americas, Cahalane served as executive vice president of Corporate Partnerships with the Dallas Stars™ for 10 seasons. Cahalane oversaw sponsorship and media sales for the Dallas Stars Hockey Club, Dr Pepper Arena and the Dr Pepper StarCenters, as well as represented the Stars’ executive team in negotiating sponsorships at American Airlines Center.

“Circuit of The Americas will be a world-class facility because it will be brought to life by proven professionals like Danielle and Ben,” said Geoff Moore, chief marketing and revenue officer for Circuit of The Americas. “I have worked with them for many years and am confident they are the right team to establish and grow our corporate partnerships program.”

Guest Services Tom Schneider is newly appointed to the position of vice president of Guest Services. Schneider brings 20 years experience in the hospitality and guest services industry from some of the most respected facilities in the country. He is responsible for creating and managing a variety of guest programs to enhance fan experience. Prior to joining Circuit of The Americas, Schneider worked as regional vice president of Operations for Island Hospitality in Louisville, Kentucky where he managed overall sales and operations of 24 Marriott, Hilton and Starwood hotels in 10 states.

“Tom is a great new asset to our team,” said Steve Sexton, president of Circuit of The Americas. “He is motivated, understands the importance of the fan experience and how employees can make a difference. We are committed to ensuring our facility sets a new standard for motorsports events. Tom knows how to deliver a world-class experience for fans.”