This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

The Board of Directors of the Utah State Fairpark has selected South Jordan resident Michael J. Steele as the new executive director and CEO of the Utah State Fair and Fairpark.

Steele most recently served as the general manager for Rio Tinto Stadium. His work experience includes five years as director of operations at the Madison Square Garden Training Center."Michael was the obvious and most qualified choice for the CEO position," said Roger Beattie, Chairman of the Board, in a release. "We were looking for a very specific candidate to fill the position. With his extensive experience, Michael fit the mold perfectly. We know he will build and capitalize on the success of the Fairpark ... The Board of Directors believe his experience in venue operations, concert production, brand management and strategic planning will help realize the full potential of the Fairpark," said Beattie.This year the Utah State Fair runs Sept. 5-15.