Summerfest has a new leader. This week, the Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. board of directors – which operates the festival – unanimously approved the promotion of Sarah Smith Pancheri to president and chief executive officer of the organization. Smith Pancheri will assume her new role effective Jan. 1.
Smith Pancheri has held the position of president since June 2022 and previously served as the organization’s chief operating officer and vice president of sales and marketing. In these roles, Smith Pancheri has overseen several transformational sponsorships, navigated the post-pandemic environment, and worked closely with business and community leaders on behalf of Summerfest and Henry Maier Festival Park. During the 2023 season, the park hosted 83% more events than in 2019, the year prior to the COVID pandemic, and attracted more than 1.2 million patrons.
“The experience of serving as president during an incredible 2023 season gives me great optimism for our future,” Smith Pancheri said. “Henry Maier Festival Park, one of Milwaukee’s most important assets, is in demand.”
Smith Pancheri will replaced Don Smiley, who has served in the role for 20 years. Smiley will continue to work for Milwaukee World Festival on a part-time basis, providing guidance and expertise on various projects and long-range planning.
During the Milwaukee World Festival board of directors meeting on Thursday, the board recognized Smiley’s tenure. “The board is grateful to Don for his many years of service, as well as his thoughtful approach to organizational succession,” Milwaukee World Festival Chairwoman Mary Ellen Stanek said. “The plan Don put into motion several years ago is completed. Sarah has demonstrated leadership, drive and a strong commitment to Milwaukee World Festival’s mission.”
Smiley joined Milwaukee World Festival in June 2004 and oversaw the complete transformation of Henry Maier Festival Park, obtaining more than $161 million in privately financed improvements. During Smiley’s tenure, more than 25 million people have attended festivals, events and concerts at Henry Maier Festival Park.
“It has been an incredible honor to lead Milwaukee World Festival for the last 20 years,” Smiley said. “I am so proud of what our team has accomplished.”
