People in Places: Maria Mercurio

Maria Mercurio is the chief financial officer of the Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority (FCCFA). For nearly 30 years, she has helped ensure the FCCFA’s public resources are invested strategically to support economic impact and community benefit. In this Q&A, Maria reflects on her career, her approach to long-term financial planning and the personal connection that inspired the development of one of the largest showcases of work by Central Ohio artists, making art an integral part of the visitor experience.

Q&A

You’ve spent nearly 30 years with the Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority. Why did you join the team, and why have you stayed?

I joined the FCCFA after working in the City of Columbus Finance Department, where I helped establish the original financing plan for development of the convention center. When a position became available with the FCCFA, I applied and was offered the job. I’ve loved the work ever since. I’ve been able to watch the facilities and the organization grow and have been able to experience all the wonderful things the FCCFA does for the community. The position also gave me the flexibility to continue my career while raising a family and spending time with my children. They’re grown now, but the FCCFA still feels like the right place to finish my career.

How has your institutional knowledge shaped your role at FCCFA?

I’ve ensured the financial strength of the FCCFA through sound fiscal policy, helped developed and implemented financing programs for the organization and worked on bond issues that supported expansions and renovations of the Greater Columbus Convention Center, as well as the development of Hilton Columbus Downtown and Nationwide Arena. That history is part of me. It allows me to bring an administrative perspective grounded in what it takes to move the FCCFA’s vision forward. Over the years, our team has developed trust in my expertise and ability to do the job. That gives the executive director, staff and board the freedom to do their job well because they know that the finances are in good hands. My role is to find financial solutions that can turn ideas into a clear path forward. Whatever the challenge is, they know I am committed to figuring it out.

What is your favorite thing about working for the FCCFA?

I love the people, being part of the FCCFA’s growth and seeing a vision take shape. Knowing our work contributes to the community is incredibly rewarding. I also genuinely love the work itself — the visionary side of financial planning, developing plans for the future and strategically solving the challenges that come up.

How did you discover you were a “numbers” person and that finance was the right career path?

I found my way into it. At the City of Columbus, I tried working in several areas outside finance, but I kept coming back to numbers. I’m not an accountant or that type of finance professional. What interests me is looking ahead — projections, planning and performance. I like understanding how thoughtful financial planning can contribute to the success of an organization. When it’s done well, it gives an organization the strength and stability to keep moving forward.

You’ve described your work as a form of community service. Did you ever consider corporate finance?

My master’s degree is in public finance and public administration.  Public service has always been where I wanted to be. I’ve had opportunities to move into the private sector, but I never made that move. I love what I do and am proud to be part of the FCCFA.

You have been instrumental in the FCCFA’s public art program. Why are FCCFA facilities such fitting places to showcase work by Central Ohio artists?

Art has always been part of my life. My father had a passion for art, was an artist himself, and worked as an art therapist in his younger years. He believed deeply in its value. His influence taught me to look for opportunities to bring art into the places we experience every day and appreciate the beauty around us.   The Greater Columbus Convention Center and Hilton Columbus Downtown welcome people from all over, but the facilities are also rooted in this community. Showcasing local art in those spaces is one way to introduce our local community to visitors.

Of the more than 400 pieces in the public art collection, which is your favorite?

That’s a difficult question! I have a special connection to the pieces created by artists associated with Goodwill Columbus. My father worked with Goodwill as an art therapist for many years, so those works connect to my own past. They also represent what I love about the public art program: It makes room for artists with many different backgrounds and experiences. The collection hits my heart. I appreciate the people behind each piece, the journey it has taken and what it represents.

As a Columbus native, what do you love most about the city, and what do you hope the FCCFA will contribute in the years ahead?

I love how friendly people are in this community. There’s also a real commitment to growth and opportunity, both in our industry and across the city. I hope the FCCFA continues to grow and create more reasons for people to come to Columbus — and that once they’re here, they enjoy the city and feel part of the community. I look forward to seeing what the future holds.