Russ Simons
Managing Partner & Chief Listening Officer for Venue Solutions Group
Russ Simons has been involved in nearly every facet of the sports facility industry for over three decades, from design and construction to safety and security, marketing, public relations and operations. As a senior principal at Populous, Russ directed facility operations, evaluation and analysis efforts. He worked with the firm’s architects to create facilities designed to be safe, efficient, revenue positive and sustainable. Russ has worked with operators from the collegiate level to every professional league. His wide variety of clients includes the Orlando Magic, San Diego Padres, Pittsburgh Steelers, Nashville Predators, Keeneland Equestrian Facility, Major League Soccer and the University of Oklahoma.
Russ’s experience and accomplishments:
- Senior Vice President for Leisure Management International
- General Manager of Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, home to the Nashville Predators
- Bachelor’s degree in sports marketing from the University of Connecticut
- Instructor, IAVM Venue Managers School and past chair of the Board of Regents
- Member of IAVM Life Safety Council
- Instructor IAVM Academy of Venue Safety and Security
- Event and Arena Marketing Conference Hall of Fame
- Board of Advisors for the Center for Spectator Sports Security Management