The Nova Scotia Government has announced that Stephen Pottie has been named the new general manager of the Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition in Truro and that he will be starting the job immediately.

The NSPE operates live harness racing at Truro Raceway.

"It is important for the general manager of the provincial exhibition to have significant facility management experience, knowledge of the industry and experience in business," Agriculture Minister Keith Colwell was quoted as saying via release. "I am pleased to say that Mr. Pottie has all these attributes and will be a valuable member of the management team at the exhibition."

Pottie has led operations of a number of facilities in the province, including Exhibition Park, the East Hants Sportplex and, most recently, the CFB Halifax Curling Club. He has also owned and operated a private business for more than 20 years.

"I am pleased to welcome Stephen to the position of general manager and look forward to supporting him as we realize the full potential of this great property," said Bruce Kennedy, board chair of the Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition. "A new vision and energy should bring new hope and goals to the volunteers and businesses of our county."

Business continues as usual for the exhibition, with the harness racing season and other scheduled events.

The release has cited Kennedy as saying that the community supports the new direction at the NSPE and looks forward to its future.

(With files from the Province of Nova Scotia)