(San Diego, Calif. – Jan. 23, 2025) – ASM Global, the world’s No. 1 development and full-service venue company, has promoted Ryan Golden to general manager of Pechanga Arena San Diego.
For the past four years, Golden held the position of assistant general manager at Pechanga Arena where he played a key role in enhancing operations and delivering memorable events to the community. He is a seasoned leader with more than 15 years of industry experience, including time at AEG as vice president of events for Microsoft Theater and L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles, California.
“Ryan has a deep understanding of the arena’s operations; and over the past few years, he has proven he is the right person to take over at the helm,” said Felix Mussenden, senior vice president, arenas, stadiums and theaters for ASM Global, which manages the venue. “His experience in the industry, combined with his passion for sports and live entertainment, will be key for the next chapter of growth and success for Pechanga Arena.”
In his role as general manager, Golden will oversee day-to-day operations at the 14,000-capacity venue, including the overall management, promotion and operation of the facility. Responsibilities include purchasing, booking, marketing, finance, human resources, food and beverage, box office, advertising, production, maintenance, parking, security, emergency and crisis management, and more.
“This iconic venue has a rich history, and I am honored to be a part of it,” said Golden. “I look forward to continuing working with the incredible team here to create unforgettable experiences for the fans, artists and the San Diego community.”
Golden succeeds Steve Eckerson who served as the arena’s general manager from May 2023 to January 2025. Eckerson will transition into a part-time advisory role, where he will continue to work with Golden and the team, contributing his expertise to uphold Pechanga Arena’s tradition of hosting world-class events.
About Pechanga Arena San Diego
Located in the heart of San Diego, California, is a premier multipurpose venue renowned for its diverse entertainment offerings. Opened in 1966 and originally known as the San Diego Sports Arena, this iconic facility has hosted an impressive array of events, from major concerts to sporting events and family shows. With a seating capacity of 14,000, it provides an intimate yet vibrant atmosphere for fans and attendees. Today, in partnership with ASM Global, Pechanga Arena is consistently rated as the No. 1 facility in California for venues with 10,001 – 15,000 seats and continues to be a central hub for entertainment in San Diego.
About ASM Global
Award-winning ASM Global is the world’s No. 1 development and full-service venue company focused on client-first approaches for driving significant financial success. The company’s elite network spans five continents featuring a portfolio of more than 400 of the world’s most prestigious arenas, stadiums, convention/exhibition centers and performing arts venues.
ASM Global translates its unique visionary ownership experience into innovative project development, planning and execution; content programming; curated guest-immersive experiences; locally tailored solutions; and optimized revenue streams for our client’s properties and surrounding communities. Focused on value creation and economic growth, ASM Global realizes venue business potential to elevate the profitability and profile of our clients and partners. We cultivate strong, inclusive relationships with the communities we work and live in while championing the welfare and development of our employees and small-business partners, resulting in a more cohesive, resilient and vibrant community.
ASM Global’s expertise and commitment extends across existing venue management, new venue development, and transformative renovation projects across the most exciting properties in the industry, including Kai Tak Sports Park (Hong Kong), Caesars Superdome (New Orleans, Louisiana), The Moscone Center (San Francisco, California), AO Arena (Manchester, U.K.), The Greek Theatre (Los Angeles, California), Desert Diamond Arena (Glendale, Arizona) and Fishers Event Center (Fishers, Indiana).
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