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"The growth in stadium development across the world is remarkable and we’re excited to be leading the charge"
By James Hanley on 16 Oct 2024
Venue management giant Oak View Group (OVG) has announced the launch of a dedicated division focused on its global stadium business.
OVG Stadia will bring together stadium experts throughout the company to act as strategic partners in all regions globally.
Led by newly appointed president Chris Wright, who was formerly GM of Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium, the new division will build on OVG’s US stadium portfolio, which includes Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia and the Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, among others.
Joining Wright is EVP Greg Desharnai and Samantha Johnson, who will serve as the SVP of sales. The OVG Stadia team will report to Greg O’Dell, president, venue management, OVG360. OVG Stadia will also expand the company’s stadium roster internationally.
“The depth and breadth of stadium experience that Chris Wright and his team at OVG Stadia bring presents an exciting opportunity”
“The depth and breadth of stadium experience that Chris Wright and his team at OVG Stadia bring, presents an exciting opportunity for Oak View Group as we continue to expand our services and further strengthen our cohort of experts, covering every area of the venue development and management business,” says O’Dell. “Our focus is on providing the greatest benefit to our clients and partners as we grow our teams to drive innovation, thought leadership and the highest standards.”
In addition to Wright, Desharnais and Johnson, OVG Stadia will bring together executives: Mark Donnelly (EVP, venues and operations, OVG International); Ela Greatorex, (VP, venue development); Gary Hutchinson (VP, booking & commercial partnerships, OVG International and MD Chrysalis Leisure Management), DeLayne Martin, (director of business development) and Anja Marcusiu (business development manager).
“The growth in stadium development across the world is remarkable and we’re excited to be leading the charge with big projects, new markets and a dedicated team of experts to offer vision and experience for our clients and partners,” adds Jessica Koravos, president, Oak View Group International.
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