In Memory – Bill LeClair
Bill LeClair
Bill became a member of NAC in 2009. He served on the Board of Directors for ten years. He also served on the Expo, Government Relations, Silent Auction Committees and the annual Kindness Initiative. In October of 2019, LeClair received the ShowEast Dan Fellman Show “E” Award presented to an industry member in honor of their achievements, accomplishments, dedication, and longevity in the industry.
In 2020, LeClair was honored with the prestigious NAC Bert Nathan Award recognizing leadership and significant accomplishment in the Theatre Concessions Industry.
According to an industry colleague, Bill was an agent of change for the industry, “Dedicating more than half his life to the motion picture industry combined with a passion for innovation in food and beverage, Bill has truly helped pioneer the transformation of the cinema model not only for National Amusements but also for the industry as a whole. He has not just adapted, but has risen to the challenge and driven innovative concepts and new offerings to enhance the customers’ F&B experience.”
Bill LeClair’s 40-year history with National Amusements’ Showcase Cinemas began in 1977 when he joined the company as an usher. During his many years of service, he has performed various roles including part-time manager, union projectionist and as theatre manager in the Boston DMA where he helped open many new buildings.
In 1989, LeClair joined the operations department as director, overseeing more than 100 indoor theatres locations, drive-in and flea markets. He was instrumental in deploying National’s first computerized ticketing system and creating a series of training videos used circuit-wide. In 1997, he joined the rapidly expanding food and beverage team to help develop National Amusements’ alternative and luxury dining options, including in-seat dining and alcohol service.
Leading a small team, LeClair helped transform traditional concessions fare at several of National Amusements’ locations into some of the most elevated food and beverage experiences in the industry. When the theater circuit acquired UCI Cinemas in Brazil in 2005, he developed programs to expand its food offerings and help grow the circuit from 10 to over 20 cinemas in a period of a few years.
As Senior Vice President of Global Food and Beverage, Bill oversaw the operations of all food and beverage business in four countries representing more than 915 screens. LeClair could often be found working on a diverse range of projects focused on maximizing guest’s dining experiences in the US, United Kingdom, Brazil and Argentina.
Bill was the father of three and a proud grandfather. He is survived by his sons Matt and Dan, daughter Amy, his grandchildren and partner Anna.
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Please join NAC in extending kind thoughts to the LeClair family in this difficult time.
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