Heavy Hitters Andrew Saunders (Readers’ Choice) Page 23

Mike Melisi (Social Winner) Page 24

Meghan Blood Page 31 It’s baseball season, so we’ll take a cue from the diamond as we pose this question: Who’s on deck? Every industry has its stars, and the venues space is Joe Dolan Page 34 no different. You see them every month in our pages, pushing new ideas, leading the way and changing the way everyone does business. But who will join them and become that next generation of leaders? Keller Taylor Page 30 Once again, our readers have stepped up to the plate (there’s baseball again) and voted: In this section, you’ll ‹ind their picks for the 2019 Generation Michael Owens Page 32 Next Awards, 10 women and men 35 or younger who are making a name for themselves. The top vote- getter among subscribers is designated Readers’ Choice, and the candidate who received the most Corey Margolis Page 28 votes online is tabbed as Social Winner. They innovate, they hustle, they come in early and stay late, and some of them spend an awful lot of time on their phones (see feature, Page 27). And, in a David Garcia Page 26 common theme to their stories so far, they’re willing to take a chance and try something different in their careers when offered the chance. Lisa Niess Page 35 They’re in the game. They’re on deck. They’re Generation Next.

Brittanie Delava Page 33

22 JUNE 2019 Hitters Heavy

COURTESY STAPLES CENTER & MICROSOFT THEATER FACILITIES AEG ANGELES THEATER, LOS MICROSOFT CENTER AND STAPLES BUYER, TALENT SENIOR A trying to get us the right content for our buildings. He’s buildings. content for our right the to get us trying it’s about Andrew all With needs. their •t and out stand venue our make will that something pit, adeeper or tem, sys- we have acurtaining that out point “He will said. she for us.” success huge a show. And his “It deal,” was the on said. she working ashow. “Andrew months spent to secure determination ofSaunders’ example aperfect as October, in Theater soft Micro- to the that’s coming ofQueen songs the on based it happen.” he makes it until attacking keep he will theater our in belongs act an he believes If it happen. he makes till keep working He’ll he wants. what he gets until keep working “Andrew will Yavitch recalled. to AEG. moving he was that heard she as soon him.” in trust Ihave alot it. of on working about happy Iwas him, with employer. my former aproject Idid Whenever FieldHouse, Mortgage ofRocket aclient he was Venuewith Coalition, years. four almost for Saunders known has and Theater Microsoft and Center November 2017. in calling came AEG when left 2017 in and ofbooking tor to direc- promoted He was manager. booking as Coalition Taylor. James was client main his and accountant, tour on-the-road an was Saunders corporation. management abusiness &Feldman, Rennert at Gelfand, was post next His years. two there He stayed Coalition. Theatre. Rey El Goldenvoice at the with was internship •rst His entrepreneurship. business and dustry in- music studied teacher. and He wentpreschool to USC now a is astay-at-home was and mom Saunders, Laurie ders’ workload. to Saun- Center Staples much larger added the on they and podcasts, and hip-hop as such in, have much ofahistory venue didn’t the that genres in often shows, out at picking he excelled realized bosses Theater, AEG his Microsoft the for buyer only senior the as stint short arelatively er. After he wants. price —at show the the he gets until agents and Theater. Microsoft and Center Staples Angeles’ for buyer Los talent senior as role latest his at Goldenvoice through internship a prized BY BRAD WEISSBERG Saunders’ ability to listen to the clients sets him apart, apart, him sets clients to the to listen ability Saunders’ You,” Rock musical Yavitch the to “We Will pointed this,’” to rock ‘You going said, are that anote “I him sent job as at the amazing be would Yavitch Saunders knew guy,” “Andrew he was atenacious is “When Yavitch said. at Staples president ofbooking Yavitch vice the is Hallie went back to Venue Saunders ahalf, and ayear After at Venue assistant abooking as job was paid •rst His mom, His Calif. County, Orange in born was Saunders play- amajor as emerging quickly is Saunders 28, age At promoters with relationships It’s way he nurtures the in with It’s move he’s every career, starting in his made in music industry for decades. industry music side ofthe business the on been has and Media at iHeart- marketing and president ofsales vice deal. the of art the       It’s in his blood. His dad, Dave Saunders, is the the is Dave dad, Saunders, His It’s blood. his in Saunders Andrew slow, we’ll get the marketing team and the artists manage artists the and team marketing slow, get the we’ll are sales aloser. or “If ahit is show the if tell he can on-sale the afew after days just that well so sales ticket his knows perfectly.” together came marketing and booking when moments ofthose one event and successful massively It was stage. for the designed rug acustom had We also studio. podcast the er lobby we where re-created low- the in experience op aphoto creating by mile extra the we went —and Angeles Los in Halloween on show murder —we a had aligned stars ofthe All 2018. night Halloween show. live “My Favoriteter, podcast the Murder” as such ros- event anew to the to introduce he gets when pleased a lot of integrity.” ithe does with and game long the playing just business relationships. This is the really fun part.” part.” fun really the is This relationships. business just have moved way beyond and strong really getting are ships “My relation- said. Saunders business,” ofthis part being I’m and moment, no rush.” in headed at this am I where I’m route. promoter sure the entirely not and route venue the between in now, halfway Iam “Right ders said. deal. agreat make and persistence, with it pursue he’ll industry; music the in be it will that assures admoney.” extra as used to be guarantee of their back some even to give o§er will artists Some guitars. some sign or interviews to do some willing is artist love it an when “We always to cooperate,” he said. artist the key getting is The conversation. ateam it becomes then and ment together A bad day is “when we are losing money.” losing “when we dayA bad is are Saunders it for “I booked recalled. Saunders perfect,” “It was he’s and box, ofthe out especially to think likes Saunders “Now that I’ve paid my dues, I’m starting to really enjoy to really I’ve I’m my dues, “Now that paid starting Saun- ofopportunity,” aton has that “AEG acompany is he but be, move will next his what unclear is Saunders JUNE 2019 READERS’ CHOICE 23 - COURTESY ARAMARK — MIKE MELISI “Power is always“Power have an Melisi said. issue,” don’t “We About years 10 ago Aramark started taking credit cards “Boston used be to a largely cash slowly market, but it’s Over Park the has past extended decade, Fenway its know“We that in events for December and January, we Apart from his Melisi job, has competed in seven Boston botherMelisi track to doesn’t his personal best time. “Working a ballpark at and having and chicken tender Model T automobile.Model readily accessible electricity,so always we need run to power (through tight have We warehouses generators). gettingand •ve six to we’re deliveries inventory for every game, and with all the storage do, catered we events be- comes an issue.” allat food and drink locations, and the has in-seat vendor service roughly for 6,000 seats. changing,” Melisi said. “Credit cards are taking the over share of transactions.”lion’s season the over winter months include to the Harvard-Yale collegefootball game, the Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic and Big Air Shaun White’s extreme action sports event. could temperatures have below zero where pipes could freeze and is water already o§ shut the at ballpark,” Melisi said. also “It depends on if the Red Sox extend their sea- son, whether their last game is in September and close we down the ballpark a month for or two, or the last game is Game Series 6 of the World and stays it open through October. That makes life a little easier.” Marathons and raised more than $100,000 both for Boston Hospital Children’s and the Red Sox Foundation. startedHe running the marathon raise help to money for the hospital after was treated son Kyle his there sister’s for complications shortly after was he born. pizza tastings a good the keep to way the over winter, it’s said. he weight o§,” “It helps knowing the concrete helps knowing “It seeing now and back the on numbers end.” them on the front

Mike Mike Melisi

Melisi, 33, serves now as the concessionaire’s ©ª «¬®¯ ©®ª Melisi has been a •xture years, Park13 since for ever Fenway he at was hired on the spot as an intern in the compa- •nanceny’s department. general manager the at historic ballpark, home of “It helps knowing helps “It the concrete numbers on the back In addition the to 81 Red Sox home games, Aramark Keeping up with new technol- It allIt started in the spring of 2006. Marco DePalma, a his“On called he •rst day, me and said if I could make after one day years later, college graduation,Two Ara- a dull never working day Melisi, there’s For the food “Over the some done signi•cant past years, few we’ve Melisi has a unique perspective on all the upgrades Fen- BY DON MURET DON BY ogy and just the churndaily of operations is another challenge Aramark a ballpark faces at that opened in 1912, the same year Thomas Edison designed an electric battery Henry for Ford’s way hasway through gone the over past As decade. controller, crunchedhe the numbers ensure to a return on investment bothfor Aramark and the Red Sox while keeping in mind the need improve to the fan experience. and seeing now them on the front and end what means it said. he monetarily,” stays busy servicing concerts about 10 and 500 catered annually.events On 14, May example, for the ballpark held faira job military for veterans on the Big Concourse, the 38,000-square-foot space beyond the out•eld bleachers.

the BostonRed a position Sox. has he since It’s held mid- throughway the season 2017 after being promoted from senior controller. friend and Su§olk University student a police (now oµcer), had just landed an operations internship with Aramark. DePalma contacted Melisi and him gave a tip that the food had a •nancevendor internship •ll to the over summer. within downit Fenway to an hour Melisi I’d the have job,” said. was “I going school to Boston at University and living mileson Commonwealth few (a from the Avenue ballpark). I put on a shirt and tie, hailed a taxi and Fenway. to headed I talked with the regional •nance director and the control- on site, andler within 30 minutes I had the job.” mark o§ered Melisi a full-time as job a junior accountant. his worked He through way the •nance department and became controller and in then 2013 senior controller. Melisi took as four over GM a position years later, which had been years,vacant a few for said. he which hasoperation always attracted Fenway, at him the to business as one of the most stadiums celebrated in sports. yearsAt 107 old, managing its food service o§ers challeng- es but also opportunities, said. he Melisirenovations,” said. built “We a group suite next to the (Red Sox) dugout with full in-seat service, and devel- oped grandstand a few bars which accommodates those fans sitting in the upper grandstand necessarily that don’t directhave access food to and drink.” A JUNE 2019 JUNE SOCIAL WINNER ARAMARK’S ARAMARK’S GENERAL MANAGER FENWAY FOR PARK, BOSTON 24 24 24 GETTY IMAGES C relationships with the staff. the with relationships real build you and like aVIP feel everyone make They like it. experience no is there can return anything! return can …you here over loyalist strom NEXT QUESTION NEXT cle.com, a furniture company. afurniture cle.com, own, of course!). of own, their of (outside right it does that any sector in acompany to name them weasked when of thought honorees Next Generation our who Here’s ourselves. customers DAVID GARCIA: COREY MARGOLIS: DELAVA: BRITTANIE SAUNDERS: ANDREW get the chance to be to be chance the get weall side, other the On job. everyone’s VICE SER USTOMER touches nearly nearly touches Disney Cruise Line — Line Cruise Disney Starbucks. Nord Arti-  - CUSTOMER SERVICE CUSTOMER for our and other industries. other and our for barometer the be should and unmatched is service customer to great commitment and KELLER TAYLOR: KELLER DOLAN: JOE Chick-‹il-A. Disney’s emphasis on on emphasis Disney’s tional customer customer tional Disney Cruise Cruise Disney Line is known known is Line for its excep- its for across each of the different brands and and brands different the of each across service with job excellent an do They Cities. Twin the in restaurants favorite our of several outside of Canon Beach, Ore. Ore. Beach, Canon of outside restaurant mom-and-pop asmall Livery, McVay for was second The status. residency MIKE MELISI: MIKE NIESS: LISA service. JUNE 2019 The Parasole Group owns owns Group Parasole The locations. mom). I’m anew and Ilike food that tell can’t you answers these from (clearly Baby Happiest Trader and Joe’s Chick-‹il-A, are my in opinion three top the say —Iwould one just to down it to narrow tough process of getting permanent permanent getting of process arduous long, the through us helped and into Canada us getting of care took that LLP, attorneys immigration the Spiegel and Green for One, my in life. reviews Google two to leave time the taken MICHAEL OWENS: BLOOD: MEGHAN American Express. American It’s It’s I’ve I’ve 2525 COURTESY ATLANTA HAWKS & STATE FARM ARENA - - The quirky interview process extended the to nearby actually“It us easier a lot for it made hire to people, This summer, Garcia will be evaluating 5,000 fan sur- about continue we how grow to “It’s as an organization The high cost tied buying to food and drink a live at “They found that had it an impact … because had you State Farm Arena became the •rst NBA adopt to venue The Hawks hired Garcia in April 2018, and one of his duties tennial Park, and Garcia found himself staring the at park’s Ferris wheel. His Disney instincts kicked in. Riding the wheel would be a cool place interview to people, thought, he which is what the Hawks did in hiring people 50 as supervisors. Georgia Aquarium, where the Hawks interviewed folks for part-time100 positions in a space where whale sharks and manta rays passed by overhead. a smile have because on your if in face don’t you that situ- ation, not going were probably you be to good a what •t for Garcia looking were said.we for,” seeveys to the how Hawks can improve their operation af- Stateter Farm Arena completed a $183 million renovation last fall. also He initiated an innovation where lab team meet o§-siteleaders discuss to and new ideas concepts. in that a way still •ts our overall purpose,” Garcia said. event was oneevent thing AMB Sports oµcials thought they could change create to a better experience, said. he Two years after the stadium opened, NFL and MLS fans enter the building earlier and Garcia spend more money, said. that goodwill, everything a little else felt better bit as well,” said.he of the “One things I did when I came the to Hawks was bring to that a di§erent same building model. It’s from an operational perspective with higher volume. If the lines not a greatare experience.” long, it’s the fan-friendly concessions pricing strategy paid and it’s o§ the most for recent season-ticket Hawks. In the NBA’s survey,holder the team ranked 1 in No. food and drink. was hire to a crew supervisors of event and game-day work oµces iners. downtown The team’s Atlanta Cen overlook - -

David David Garcia

In his as role vice of guest president experience ¯® ¼¬® ½  on his personal Disney experience transform help to the culture three for big league teams in his hometown of Atlanta. thefor Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena, Gar cia touches all aspects operations of event after the The Hawks hired Garcia after spent he about three years as Garcia,For 33, the common thread both for positions a strong connection,”“It’s said. he all “It comes down to wasIt From joke. no the time Garcia up the at picked got “The moral of that story and what I realized is later that a philosophyIt’s that initially spread Mercedes-Benz to “In general, the home viewing experience is strong, but BY DON MURET DON BY

NBA team combined its premium and guest services depart ments into one group Ressler. under Hawks owner Tony director of fan experience AMB for Sports & Entertainment, Atlantaparent company Falcons of the and Atlanta NFL’s United FC of MLS, and operator of Mercedes-Benz Stadium. was Disney The Walt Co., where took he out a job of college as a •nancial analyst in Orlando. Over the past years, 20 multiple teams consulted have with the Disney Institute to improve the customer service their at facilities. Garcia saw •rsthandit during his interview process. the I was way recruited I thought Disney. at I wanted be to an investment but banker, out, that work thankfully, didn’t because I would hated it. have I applied Disney at as some- thinkwhat I didn’t of a joke. I would there.” work airport by a chau§eur holding up a sign with his name on it, the to steak and salmon dinners Disneyat restaurants andhis Epcot Boardwalk room, hotel getting to backstagea peek the at Chronicles of Narnia wardrobe and viewing the nightly theme park •reworks displays, his multiday interview was one continuous “wow” moment. allit that to back went experience,” said. he me got “It hooked and then what they did in the culture on a daily basis is what gets believe to you and what’s buy into. That’s driving trying what we’re here, put do to the guests the at forefront of everything do.” we Stadium. Garcia was on the ground ¾oor of facility devel- opment and helped form a new value concessions model AMBfor Sports, featuring hot dogs, $2 soft drinks and popcorn and proved be to $5 beers. successful It’s the for organization, resulting in a greater number of transactions and higher compared revenue with Falcons games the at Georgiaold Dome, teams More across sports adopted have a similar their at model facilities, including the Hawks. there are some things that our buildings can o§er that you home — that at get socialcan’t connection, energy and Garciaatmosphere said. a live at event,” time,“But over happened iswhat’s there been have too many barriers that ingot theof an experience.” way enjoyable D JUNE 2019 JUNE

VICE PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT OF GUEST EXPERIENCE, HAWKS ATLANTA FARM AND STATE ARENA 26 26 Garcia was on the ground Šloor on the ground was Garcia Mercedes-Benz of developing pricing model. value Stadium’s GETTY IMAGES I hours. 21-30 probably guess would seven days. I hope that’s normal. that’s Ihope days. seven last the over 7minutes hours, 21 —I’m up at it looked Ijust God. NEXT QUESTION NEXT to this question gives me anxiety. me gives question to this answer an calculating of thought each week. each up rack they time screen much how honorees Next Generation our weasked so alot, them use ANDREW SAUNDERS: ANDREW DAVID GARCIA: COREY MARGOLIS: DELAVA: BRITTANIE using them, and some of us us of some and them, using we’re much how us tell now can Smartphones both? of abit maybe or addiction, an or or ACONVENIENCE S IT Don’t know, Don’t 22 hours. 22 Oh Oh The The SCREEN TIME SCREEN especially when I’m with family and friends. and family I’m with when especially present, be and toa day. try my Ido best KELLER TAYLOR: KELLER DOLAN: JOE JUNE 2019 I hope no more than an hour hour an than more no Ihope hours each week. each hours 4to 5 around average social social media. less and app Headspace more use could nitely De‹i Ican. if longer day, other or to every media social checking to limit Itry and email, checking for Mostly much. too still probably really, aton, but Not that a lot, or alittle? or alot, that Is week. this day per time screen my average is utes 3min- and 4hours says keep track of. track keep much. MIKE MELISI: MELISI: MIKE MICHAEL OWENS: BLOOD: MEGHAN NIESS: LISA Way too much to even to even Way much too My iPhone iPhone My Too Too - 27 I

27 COURTESY OF ANGEL OF THE WINDS ARENA The WNBA team will use the University of Washing- Housing around 9,000 hockey and for 10,000 for sense made “It all across from the said. he board,” “I’m Starting as a stagehand Rogers at Arena in Vancouver, ton’s Alaska Airlineston’s Arena Edmundson Hec at Pavilion as its primary and home site Angel of the Winds Arena as a secondary site. Everett gets a preseason game and •ve regular-season games, including the nationally televised home opener that 25 May was serve to as the ring ceremony and banner raising saluting league the champion- team’s ship last season. If the Storm makes another run, playo§ Margolis expects host to of those “most depending on our availability.” concerts, the Everett arena draws from Seattle north, advertising heavily in its home county of Snohomish all the northway the to Canadian border and into Canada. Those are the people Margolis knows well. A native of Vancouver, British Columbia, Margolis started his Spectra experience in the same province, manager as event Encana at Events Centre in Dawson Creek. was He recently the assistant general manager Spectra for Budweiser at Gardens in London, Ontario, spending two years increasing bookings there, along with other small in venues the area. In July 2018, years 29 at old, Margolis was promoted his to post at Angel of the Winds Arena. so was it quite closeVancouver, anda nice promotion. I think is it a very exciting time this for region, and markets like Everett stand their have to more than even moment they already have.” loading in shows as a high school student and then having the opportunity try to a bevy of things in Spectra, every- thing from building an •lling event in a box oµce for man- ager putting to together a marketing plan, “having those di§erent experiences helped when trying oversee to the operation and knowing said. he what needs “I be to done,” am fortunate a varied have to background.” - — COREY MARGOLIS

Corey Corey Margolis

ÀÁ M¼À½® ½À¯ getting a sense of the market kicks before he in with creativity. just done that in Everett,He’s Wash., as general manager of Angelthe of Winds Arena, not only getting know to his market north of Seattle but also having some big victories along the way. Margolis, 30, an eight-year veteran of Spectra, has served Getting there, though, was about “•guring out what always“It takes time a sense get to of the market, the get Margolis hopes reestablish to business by not taking on Along with the new additions the to calendar 2019, for Angel of the Winds Arena also serves as the home for Landing Storm the comes on the WNBA’s heels of Seattle BY TIM NEWCOMB NEWCOMB TIM BY in the 10,000-capacity arena his about for a year, •rst stint as a general manager. landed Along the WN the he’s way BA’s Seattle Storm home dates, for drawnBA’s the Live Nation Backstreet Boys July show for and with worked the arena’s naming-rights partner — a casino about miles 20 from the Keith an for arena August promote — to Toby show. works.” Margolisvibe,” said. there “Yeah, is data, but need you to it.” feel unnecessary risk getting yet creative with di§erent produc- ers and promoters them have to realizethe potential the for market. once “We did a ton of shows and the market got quite competitive and concerts said. he decreased,” “My goal is reestablish to that history in di§erent genres and are we prove a good place play.” to Margolis said, Everett has some reliable draws. “We seem win to on of the a lot family entertainment and the producers said. he are really Along happy,” with family-fo- cused events, rock shows draw well, as contemporary do Christian concerts, of which the arena hosts two or three a Angelyear. of the Winds Arena also has a strong presence in motorsports, EnduroCross with the motorcycle venue’s growingevent every year. junior Everett Silvertips hockey’s of the Western Hockey League. has “It been Margolis great,” said. “Their sales team has a really done good of increasing job attendance. In all sports, attendance has generally decreased, and they seenhave increases, especially this The league last year.” dropped the number of home games from 36 34, to but the Silvertips still a paid saw increase 9,000 of over tickets and gross wasthe revenue also team’s up.. Center Arena — long known as KeyArena — closing for two years as part rebuild of a complete bring to the NHL theto While city. Margolis said the Seattle situation hasn’t changed Angel for much of the Winds Arena because of the size discrepancy in the two noted — he most venues shows thehead to Dome — his larger Tacoma arena is “potentially getting other few a looks on stu§.” That includes the Storm. C JUNE 2019 JUNE

GENERAL GENERAL MANAGER OF ANGEL FOR THE WINDS ARENA, EVERETT, WASH. SPECTRA 28 28 “It always takes time to get a sense takes always “It get the vibe.” of the market, COREY MARGOLIS: LISA NIESS: Opening U.S. Bank Stadium Accepting an event manager has to be my best professional decision to NEXT QUESTION BEST position in Dawson Creek, date. I learned so many invaluable lessons British Columbia. and built so many relationships through the project. DAVID GARCIA: When PROFESSIONAL DECISION I was at Disney, I had the MEGHAN BLOOD: Attending IAVM’s year opportunity to work on the one of Venue Management School last year. MyMagic+ project on the I feel like we get so stuck in the same day to ‹inance team or the product development day of our own departments, and VMS really AYBE IT WAS A career team. My background was in ‹inance and it helped me open my eyes to challenges that choice, to go instead of was what I had been doing for the ‹irst two people from other departments/arenas/etc. staying. Perhaps it was taking years of my career. I decided to bet on my- face day to day. a risk, not knowing how it self and take the role on the product devel- might pay off. And maybe opment team despite not really knowing how MICHAEL OWENS: The decision to Mit was incorporating a concept that made a to do the job. I had trouble following along in accept a job as the booking manager whole operation run better. That’s what we my ‹irst meeting, but taking that role taught in Tulsa laid the foundation for other wanted to know when we asked Generation me the bene‹its of risk taking, building new successes I’ve had in my career. I actually Next honorees about a decision that made a skills, and believing in yourself. started there at the convention center, not difference for them. BOK Center, but I knew that surrounding JOE DOLAN: Making the decision to join myself with people like John Bolton and ANDREW SAUNDERS: To get back into the team in Greenville. We’ve accomplished Jeff Nickler would be the best investment booking after being on the road as a tour a lot over the last four years and it’s been a in my career I could’ve made at the time. accountant. very rewarding experience. They do a really amazing job of cultivating talent in the industry and opened many BRITTANIE DELAVA: Saying yes to every KELLER TAYLOR: Taking the opportuni- of the doors that led to the relationships I opportunity at the beginning of my career. ty to move to Enid, Okla., for Spectra and have today. Without going out of my comfort zone a few overseeing the $8 million renovation of a times on tour or working for free just to gain 53,000-square-foot convention center and a MIKE MELISI: Holding monthly engage- experience, there is no way I’d be where I am new $18 million 3,800-seat arena. ment meetings with the entire management now. team.

 Generation Next CongratulationsAward Winners

KELLER TAYLOR & COREY MARGOLIS

WE ARE PROUD TO HAVE YOU AS PART OF THE SPECTRA TEAM!

Keller Taylor Corey Margolis District General Manager, General Manager, Budweiser Events Center Angel of the Winds Arena

LEARN MORE AT SPECTRAEXPERIENCES.COM

JUNE 2019 2929 COURTESY SPECTRA - - “Keller’s presence “Keller’s said. “He’s always said. “He’s learning, and taking classes, and he’s good training at and mentorshe people, and them get helps theirto goals. For such a young guy, amazingit’s see to in done his what he’s career Before already. up, showed he one no had heard of Enid, Okla. put He the- ven ue on the map and got of promotersa lot to test out the building. so by much was felt the Enid City Coun - cil, they declared a in Day Keller Taylor Hontz said.Enid,” “When up, showed he around joked we that going one get to he’s here.” Rick Hontz, Spectra regional vice president, has been Enid, at met “We and I hired him replace to Bud me at one of the best Hontz GMs in our“He’s company,” In Loveland, Taylor’s buildingIn Loveland, keeps a busy Taylor’s schedule. biggest All challenge. the try “I travel is Taylor’s visit to His good good fortune? wife (Sarah, “A they’ve been always been me, taught, I’ve “For and exercise, the dream is job as of a large-market a GM arena.Taylor’s is also cognizantTaylor of his corporate team in Phila delphia. all “It starts with John Page, he our president,” said. with Spectra 24 for years and has seven for known Taylor years. Hontz said. “Keller is likeweiser Center,” a student of our industry. is He a very knowledgeable beyond his years. There is one no better than Keller come to into a facility and see what is revenue.” needed generate to “Disney on Ice, monster trucks, high hockey, school graduations, state high school basketball,the 2020 and 2021 (Division NCAA I) ice hockey men’s regionals. We’re booking of great a lot entertainment.” threeeach venue got said. he four to times “I’ve a year,” can up and add a family. I think Travel the one part it’s of the always that’s job diµcult navigate.” to married 12 years) and a great team the at Budweiser Events Center that I can on, rely especially assistant my general Namesnik.” manager, Dave rulegolden — I would anything ask do never to you I high I have would Inversely, not do. expectations our for teams, so I operate on the standard of being timely and a good communicator and being available.” would“I give up district manager be to in great city,” said Taylor - - - -

Keller Keller Taylor

At age 34, isthe general manager Taylor of ½½ Á½À  two passions: large live entertainment facilities and the people who work in them. the Budweiser Events Center in Loveland, Colo., Spectrafor as well as a district general manager, “My love for arena for love management“My started when I was a joined SpectraTaylor in 2012 when took he con- “I think“I the thing that most interested me in taking on was born inTaylor Easton, Pa. did He his undergradu BY BRAD WEISSBERG WEISSBERG BRAD BY ate studiesate the at University of South Carolina and went graduateto school Ohio at University. marketing intern Colonial at Life Arena in South Caro lina, which was called the Colonial Center then,” back said. opened “I theTaylor Center HÄEÄB in Austin, Texas, as services events manager, and was eventually director production.”of event trol Central of Enid, Okla.’s National Bank a Center, 53,000-square-foot convention with center a 2,500-seat arena. assignedin — venues Beau three to Texas of Spectra’s mont, Kerrville and Robstown — plus •ve other buildings in Kansas, Nebraska and Mexico. New the DGM was role learning more about people manage ment, as well as working with clients on drive to how value through resources said. on the Spectra Taylor side,” “Interpersonal communication and talking people to are what I value I do. ability my our get to con GMs get to - nected internally them or get booking contacts. Anything I can improve help to the do bottom line our for clients, I will do.” K DISTRICT GENERAL DISTRICT MANAGER, VENUE SPECTRA MANAGEMENT GENERAL MANAGER, BUDWEISER CENTER, EVENTS COLO. LOVELAND, COURTESY BOK CENTER It’s very comforting.” She neverchaos. exhibits stress. “She’s inthemiddle of calm so SMG TULSA, OKLA. BOK CENTER, MARKETING, DIRECTOR OF W an assistant general manager of a venue, she said. ofavenue, said. she manager general assistant an become herself to see like she’d someday now,ity although ago.”long too not aunt an became Ialso fun. be will that so have kids, to about are that We offriends have abunch friends. with out hanging and out busy,” “I enjoy working ing said. she year. next to Hawaii atrip take to hope They born. was Riley, child, •rst their before Ariz., to Scottsdale, recently more year,York and last late City went couple to New the and Allen, her husband, with travel year. loves She to last to Napa Valley, trip Calif., a family red.” and ofwhite bottle acommemorative did “We said. project,” Sparks the ager, spearheaded she but celebration. for the ofwine bottle acommemorative create helped also Blood Series. 10 for 10 Concert their with ers oth- and Sparks impressed team her marketing and Blood and 2018, in anniversary of Tulsa, 10-year celebrated its to me.” valuable extremely her it makes that perfection and grace such with things does “She Sparks. Casey Manager General Center BOK said It’s comforting,” very stress. its never She exhib- ofchaos. middle the leaders Ihave. She’ssenior in calm so her industrywide. workwho with those and bosses her peers, to impress continues now and years •ve for almost promotion,” said. she that me getting in it part played abig Ithink job, but get the I’d feeling agood Ihad within. promoting about good they’reis very awhole as SMG (arena operator) and job. the her land moment helped that during her leadership believes she and ofmarketing, director as nent position Brooks. Garth with shows BY NOELLE RILEY Being with family while she’s while prior- at her not top work is family with Being I’m when I’m at not work. “I enjoy cooking stay- always went on and connoisseur awine herself considers Blood man- my HR her and between e§ort acollective “It was city the by owned is which arena, 19,000-capacity The “She’s calmest ofthe probably one ofmarketing She’s director the been Ilove BOK about things “One ofthe perma- the wanted desperately She dle of managing seven seven ofmanaging dle mid- the in was arena the Tulsa, Okla., in Center BOK at the of marketing director interim the was ƽÀÀ ©¼Â  Blood Meghan — CASEY SPARKS social media followers for the BOK Center, Sparks said. said. Center, BOK followers for Sparks the media social person’s said. hotel room,” Sparks a decorating or that as intricate as something be “It would tour. Astroworld for his backstage art graµti paint helped and project” a“hot handled her team Center, and Blood She’s ofthat.” part ahuge gifts. artists and for hospitality industry “We’rethe in perfectly. known and done immediately to be need that tasks ofbig speaking said, team,” Sparks to our valuable her so makes what is work. hard and est ofmarketing.” director to the 2015, Igot promoted In industry. the love with fell in “I just said. she industry,” entertainment the my lap. Ididn’t much about fell in know of kind job just BOK the then and years for two there was Tulsa. “I in agency advertising and forbuyer amarketing way.” day’ every Iget to do what is this crap, a‘holy in …overwhelming ing overwhelm- are that days de•nitely are There di§erent. is day Every work for us. that We people out. great have such it’s or to work you work going not with, people to love the “You said. have position,” Blood manager general assistant “So that’s a testament to Meghan’s that’s atestament team,”“So said. she of amount doubled the helped has Blood Additionally, BOK played at the Travis when For Scott example, basis adaily on projects hot our to manage “Her ability for her hon- rely Blood on always can she knows Sparks manager. amarketing as Center BOK at the started She amedia Center, was BOK for Blood the Before working to an up moving myself Isee so industry, “I love the JUNE 2019 31 COURTESY CHESAPEAKE ENERGY ARENA - - - .) The number of artists on tour has helped of artists a lot trying“There’s on tour. We’re Owens his got start in the industry venue was“I fortunate enough in work go to a In his spare time likes he exercise, to but promotion and been have thrilled see to the success has he already achieved Chesapeake at Energy Arena. Both markets challenges have and advantages, and thankfully there is plenty thatof content exists both and for Okla- Tulsa homa City be to successful.” Owens •nd great Chesapeake for content Energy Arena, said. he showto them that Oklahoma City is a viable option as well, which I think doing a good we’re Owens said. of,” job working a 1,000-seat at historic theater in Spring•eld, Mo., starting as the booking man- ager and becoming later the general manager. graduatedHe from Missouri State University with of Science a Bachelor in entertainment management. small theater. having They were trouble pro gramming. me an They gave opportunity to book the theater. I was green, completely and I learned a lot. I literally just started putting o§ers out artists.” to his young daughters take up most of his time father not working. and hus “I’m when he’s a familyband. said. he I’m man,” Owens took the as job assistant general manager and “There was a dull never working day with Michael. We Nickler appreciates and applauds Owens’ booking Owens found ironic it that was he o§ered a position at “Michael and I talked during a lot his transition from pregnant with their second child. very very, were “We far from a call got home. We from SMG. looking They were a new bookingfor an guy, assistant general manager to breathe new life into back the Owens arena,” said. hismoved family the to back United States. work Before ing in Canada, Owens was the director of booking for the so was he BOK Center, familiar with the city and its booking territory. had the opportunity spend to of time a lot together and be- came great friends in addition being to colleagues,” work formerJe§ Nickler, general manager of the BOK Center, said in an email. Nickler works now as senior vice president of the Arena Alliance Oak at View Group, a position he’s sinceheld also January. owns (OVG VenuesNow strategies. had “We an aggressive booking strategy in and recognizedTulsa important how industry relation- ships our to were success, so spent we a great deal of hours together on airplanes and traveling York, New to Nashville, and Los Angeles prospect to new business,” Nickler said. Chesapeake Energy Arena, considering he’d be in compe- tition with his Nickler, former manager the at BOK Center. his to Vancouver in new role Oklahoma Nickler said. City,” “While was it admittedly awkward a bit •rst at working for competing venues, above all I was proud of Michael his for - ’s

Michael Michael Owens

The Oklahoma City arena is in direct com- ®¬Â½ À  ½  early on to how pamper touring acts, a skill that him helps stay on the competitive edge as the assistant general manager of Chesapeake Energy Arena. petition with the BOK Center in so tak Tulsa, “You’d be shocked the at “You’d amount of capital can you buy His strategy one of VenuesNow has and worked, he’s Owens started Chesapeake at Energy Arena months 10 from away The Canada move was a family decision. He’s livingThey were in Canada when his wife became BY NOELLE RILEY NOELLE BY ing care of artists and their management teams is a high priority Owens for in trying lure to them his to venue. with some of these touring acts by taking a little extra e§ort show to them hospitality and take care of them,” Owens roll to have said. out the red carpet “You and take care of these people.” GenerationNext winners in part because and he his team helped the 18,200-capacity arena achieve record concert ticket sales in the •rst quarter of 2019. ago, leaving a high-pro•le position British in Vancouver, Columbia, as directorof live entertainment of Canucks Sports & Entertainment, which owns and operates Rogers Canucks. Vancouver Arena spent He a little and the NHL’s years in 2 1/2 before returningover Vancouver Oklaho- to ma. been married his to wife, Jennifer, six for years and the couple twohave daughters, Charlotte, 3 and Grace, months 10 old. M ASSISTANT ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER, CHESAPEAKE ARENA ENERGY SMG Michael Owens welcomes Justin Timberlake to Chesapeake Energy Arena. 32 32 COURTESY AEG PRESENTS works where.” buyer venue at each aboutwhat “It’s arealconversation with each AEG PRESENTS TOURING THEATER OF CLUB AND DIRECTOR A execute it.”execute to AEG’s resources use to do and want for they what vision artist’s an how to take out •guring —so, buyers talent local our and agents between go-between later. the a year “I am already grown it this far,” it this said. she grown already we’ve and started “It’s it just that six. cool now it comprises member; fourth its became she coordinator, as team the Delava joined When division. touring theater club and its Mueller launched Rick and Lauzier company’s Cody the after months 2016, January in at AEG landing eventually before Group Agency at The four and House Sargent there!” from ofsnowballed it kind Let’s say for just free. get in Icould shows into gear carried I if out •gured week and ofthe night much every pretty “I went to shows bands,” said. she in alot“I offriends had University. Boston’s Northeastern attending while hobby” there’s voice for region.” each ... aunique umbrella one under “all are aµliates theater AEG’s club and technically we’re to what while that doing.” means creativity That some able to bring are that oµces local our in perspectives alot ofunique and rooms unique really “We have these said. she strength,” that’s our Ithink and be, could they year. this earlier with partnered company the which Mile, to Atlanta’sto New York’s Zero Presents Bowery The Goldenvoice L.A.’s from promoters, ofregional character to the true stay and mentality” “an artist-•rst maintain to both strives promoter the space, theater club and the in despite AEG’s growth rapid Delava outlined, as cause, where.” works at venue each buyer what about each “It’s with conversation,” conversation said. she areal “It’s integrated match. much an very appropriate an to •nd buyers local to applicable posit then Delava would which show, outdoor for an concept the to Delava with come might team artist’s an we have available.” For instance, venues that to do to the wants artist an what how to adapt day,”gle out “A said. she I’m lot ofwhat •guring is doing one. asubstantial is Delava’s week, passing every role with to grow selves —seems them rooms AEG-backed venues to mention —not and ers BY ERIC RENNER BROWN Given that AEG’s list of partnerships with regional promot regional with ofpartnerships AEG’s list Given that After graduating, Delava spent two years at indie label label at indie years two Delava spent graduating, After a as “started business live the Delava’s with relationship as homogenous as not are theaters and clubs “Our key be- are conversations ofthoughtful types Those sin- venues every these for all buyers to the “I’m talking AEG in early 2016 and assumed her current role her current assumed 2016 and early in AEG ofvenues. portfolio promoter’s ever-growing ofthe strategy and programming the optimizing role in Delava plays acritical Brittanie Presents, ÀÈ  ®¬À — BRITTANIE DELAVA “I wear many hats,” said Delava, 32, who joined joined who 32, Delava, hats,” said many “I wear Delava Brittanie club and theater touring at AEG at AEG touring theater club and - - between EDM and rock concerts. “You want the most GA GA most “You the want concerts. rock EDM and between Delava said. festivals,” plays and soft-ticket just not tickets, hard via grow ic artist electron- an helping by unique done something Ithink and career, his throughout him with grown “We’ve really just Garden. Square Madison headline he’ll September, Come venues. to-500-capacity at 200- shows hard-ticket earliest to plot his helped and Illenium’s team with va got along music) world,” dance (electronic Dela- the about anything “didn’t know she Though career. touring his in early since worked aDJ with has she whom ofIllenium, ascent the gral role. role. gral inte- to play an do success, to her it” rapid and there get in don’t.”currently we that in to have we need a presence that lot of markets “There’s said. she a strategically,” but more, and more map that to •ll is “To goal the down. me, ofslowing sign —Delava’s basis little aweekly shows on division arising partnerships new —and more Denver and Atlanta, Boston, part.” fun “the –as said she country,” work on Ican work rock, show, on Ican work adrag on Ican work hip-hop, on –“I can role’s ofboundaries lack it’s world.”ments, adi§erent her current Delava cites just require- alot ofgear,” same “It’stion, the said. she all there’s shows, alot ofproduc- all-ages you want possible, The experience also helped her •nd useful similarities similarities useful her •nd helped also experience The to is Delava points accomplishment professional One Count on Delava, who credits “not being afraid to just to just afraid “not being credits who Delava, on Count ofdevelopment in stages various venues in with And JUNE 2019 33 33 COURTESY BON SECOURS WELLNESS ARENA ------Dolan said highlights from his time in Greenville “Normally, NCAA get when you Tournament games When an with event built-in electricity, such as the “The focus becomes make more you even on do how it Dolan appreciates that in his young career has he al Working the for Center Fargo when Wells the Flyers “Our building just working together ride to that wave Dolan then three for worked years as the assistant- gen “I’ve de•nitely learned“I’ve about a lot of di§erent a lot lina and after two Massachusetts winters south moved Dolanfor become to the director services of event his at current workplace in January was He 2015. promoted to assistant general manager in September 2018. include three sold-out shows by Garth Brooks and a tour kicko§ concert by Bon Jovi. Perhaps most rewarding, the Bon Secours Wellness Arena hosted •rst- and sec ond-round Basketball NCAA Tournament games Men’s The arenain had been March awarded the 2017. games the previous October — after the NCAA the moved games from North Carolina when lawmakers there passed the controversial HB2 bathroom — leaving law little time for preparation. Dolan years have you plan to said.it,” for “So as we a team not only had put to this NCAA on after event not having in before, it had it but do to we done a very short execute as it well as did we was reallywindow. To exciting us.” for NCAA Tournament or a Paul McCartney concert (May 30 theat Bon Secours Wellness Arena this comes a to year), Dolanvenue, said believes he is it important a facility for more than do to simply accommodate — the it venue should it. seeking enjoys elevate He create to ways a more immersive experience audiences, for helping an exciting sporting or powerful event musical performance become something transcendent and unforgettable those for lucky enough be to there. exciting?” Dolan said. an be elevate you event do “How been a really theyond That’s event? interesting challenge gotten on.” work to I’ve graduation, and in worked he the position two for years, working on both sporting (the events Flyers, the NBA’s 76ers, basketball) Villanova and major concerts. men’s a runmade the to Stanley Cup Finals was a daily burst of adrenaline. wasof excitement amazing,” Dolan said. eral manager the at Roanoke Civic Center in Roanoke, that — a venue includesVa. an arena, a theater and a con- vention space and allowed Dolan on a wide work to range — andof events about for two years as general manager theat Mullins Center on the campus of the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Dolan running loved his own building the at Mullins Center and also taught a class at the university, but and he his wife missed South Caro a mix at worked ready facing of venues di§erent challeng es and opportunities, with di§erent of resources levels available attack to those challenges. His career so far has given him a comprehensive education of the ins and outs managementof venue and demonstrates that ulti he mately heeded Luukko’s advice.mately heeded Luukko’s things,” Dolan said. - - - - - The venue has The venue had “We’ve Dolan serves as assistant gen eral manager of the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, S.C., where he oversees the marketing, box ofÍice and event services depart ments and is instrumental in the overall man- of theagement arena, including helping de to a master velop plan interior for and exterior renovations and identifying nontraditional sources. revenue been a perfect •t, Dolan said. of reallya lot great experienc es here, of a lot .)

Joe Joe Dolan

 À½ ÌÀ was in high school in Ches- County,ter Pa., dreamed he of becoming the general manager of an NHL team, preferably the nearby Philadelphia Flyers. His brother youthplayed hockey with the son of Peter Luukko, a longtime executive with the Flyers Between his of sports love and his of live music, love Dolan launched his career by studying entertainment Luukko, executive now chairman of the Florida BY TOM GRESHAM TOM BY Dolan need more much encouragement didn’t than that. is he calling not yet later, Years the shots the for Flyers, but has he excelled in the industry venues and enjoyed a career that has seen him in work four facilities and hosthelp countless major events. In his current position, great shows, of great a lot tours, really and I’ve enjoyed Dolan timemy said. here,” management the at University of South Carolina and serving multiple internships the at Center Fargo Wells in Philadelphia. The internships netted him a full-time position as an manager events the at following venue ferent people andferent learn about of different a lot things,” Dolan said. (Luukko also a position holds now with Oak View Group, owner of VenuesNow and Comcast Spectacor, and Dolan had the opportunity to ask Luukko career for advice. Panthers, advised him start to on the of the side venues business, because “would he with work to get of dif a lot W JUNE 2019 JUNE ASSISTANT ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER BON SECOURS ARENA, WELLNESS GREENVILLE, S.C. 34 34 JOE LEMKE matters.” events ofputting onthese detail “You get to(see) …why every MINNEAPOLIS U.S. BANK STADIUM, MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS MARKETING AND — LISA NIESS W telling me then that not a lot of people get an opportunity opportunity get an alot not ofpeople that methen telling completed. percent 55 about stadium the with it,” in said. involved to be Niess much Iwanted returned. she •eld, the leaving after months Five Stadium. Bank U.S. opening be would that team the join to Auditorium, Stephens managed then which SMG, with arose opportunity an Fortunately, ofwork. line previous her how missed much she recognized cy. immediately She agen- however, advertising ajob at area, an took she Cities Twin moved to the her husband and she When manager. level ofmarketing to the rising eventually years, for four Auditorium at Stephens time worked full Niess Iowa State, from her graduation to her. it was Following how important right.” everything getting much about so cares She does. she what at her great makes work,” really “That’s what Talty said. venues industry. the for her job and her passion is strength However, her biggest he said arise. situations media challenging when storm” the voice in a“calm and stadium’s team to the leadership a key adviser as serves she He said to detail. attention acute an and for messaging sense asavvy skills, marketing stellar possesses Niess said advertising. managing and strategy brand guiding relations, media overseeing events, book team sales the helping as such tasks tackling opening, 2016 to its runup the events since Vikings non-Minnesota facility’s for the e§orts communications and led marketing has Niess performers. concert popular most industry’s the Four to Final and Bowl Super the from ranging business, the events in largest for the for fans experiences enduring those helps create Minneapolis, in Stadium Bank for U.S. to be.” that’s Iwanted where that quickly Irealized And enjoy themselves. and to relax and friends and family with time to spend lives their in on going is else whatever from abreak taking “They’re there,”ple to be said. excited she peo- with up •ll theater the to see and night show on there possibilities. BY TOM GRESHAM “It was such a cool experience,” she said. “I had people people “I had said. she experience,” acool such “It was 2015 April in Stadium Bank at U.S. onboard came Niess how and industry the about Iwas “I saw how passionate to realize venues to leave had industry the •rst Niess for this passion “She’s areal to excel and got adrive Stadium, Bank ofU.S. Talty, manager general Patrick manager communications and Today, marketing Niess, to be it was how cool “It to realize didn’t melong take venues, but her eyes were soon opened to the to the opened her eyes were but venues, soon at working never acareer considered she’d experience, Before the campus. university’s the on theater capacity a2,700-plus torium, Audi- at Stephens internship an landed she at Iowa State, astudent was ® ½®  Niess Lisa opportunity.” opportunity.” Iget that Ilove that and value, Ireally “That’s something said. events Niess matters,” these on ofputting detail you’ve every — why done matters everything why you see my career.” for items meand list “bucket —both concerts Brooks back-to-back Garth and Four Final the hosted Stadium Bank U.S. months, recent In to get it there,”work out did she Talty said. the and ofLisa’s strategy because much ofit was so media excitement for events. generating her skill illustrating particularly later —as a few months Men’s Four NCAA Final for the to prepare opportunity an and games basketball stadium’s —the •rst December early in Classic Stadium Bank U.S. the workto Niess’ promoting Talty points successes. have been Taylor and Jay-Z, Swift Chesney, and Beyoncé Kenny as luminaries such from visits that ensuring in played her part has she and 2018, in Bowl Super the it when hosted spotlight global the in turn stadium’s for the plan helped She Niess. has so lot —and said. Niess ful•lling,” away really was events right ofdynamic avariety such with to serve meant it was purpose the serve building the game. Vikings apreseason hosted and certs, con- Metallica and Bryan Luke staged Chelsea, and Milan AC powers international between game asoccer hosted stadium the weeks, initial its In coverage. ¾attering spread wide- drew events that ofmedia series acreative planning including stadium’s the opening, ofpromoting sponsibility together.” it come to see rewarding incredibly it much work but was so was building the …Opening meant. they what back now Iunderstand looking and stadium, NFL an let alone abuilding, to open “You get to have these moments with these events when these “You with moments get to have these thrills. new her with her supplying job keeps said Niess and games those about buzzing really was town “The a seen already it has life, Stadium’s young Bank U.S. In seeing —but awhirlwind just “It —it was went fast so re- weighty the handled masterfully Niess Talty said JUNE 2019 3535