Katie Pandolfo Promoted to General Manager of Crypto.com Arena
Katie Pandolfo has been elevated to the position of General Manager at Crypto.com Arena, the iconic venue that hosts the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers, NHL’s Kings, WNBA’s Sparks, and the prestigious Grammy Awards, as announced by AEG on Thursday.
Experience at Dignity Health Sports Park
Pandolfo previously managed another AEG venue, Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, where she has served as General Manager since 2009, having started her journey there in 2004.
Impressive Track Record
Throughout her tenure, the 125-acre campus has hosted a variety of significant events, including seven MLS Cup championships, Olympic and World Cup qualifying soccer matches, three seasons of Los Angeles Chargers NFL football (during the construction of SoFi Stadium), and championship boxing events.
Leadership Role at Crypto.com Arena
In her new role, Pandolfo will manage the daily operations of the bustling Crypto.com Arena and will report directly to AEG President and CEO Dan Beckerman.
Endorsement from AEG Leadership
“Katie brings a wealth of experience to this role, having successfully guided the operations and management of Dignity Health Sports Park for over two decades,” Beckerman stated. “She is a talented leader with a proven track record of delivering world-class events and possesses an incredible reputation for inspiring and motivating her team.”
Future Vision for Crypto.com Arena
“Her dedication and passion will be invaluable as we lead Crypto.com Arena into the future, particularly as we prepare for high-profile global events, including the 2026 Grammy Awards, the 2027 NCAA regional men’s basketball tournament, and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” Beckerman added.
Transition of Leadership
Pandolfo will officially take over from the retiring Lee Zeidman on June 1. Zeidman has been at the helm of Crypto.com Arena since its inception in October 1999, when it was known as Staples Center, and will continue to serve as an advisor during the transition period.
Acknowledgment of Lee Zeidman’s Contributions
“Lee has made an indelible impact on AEG, Crypto.com Arena, and the city of Los Angeles. His retirement later this year will mark the conclusion of a remarkable chapter in his career,” Beckerman remarked. “I am grateful for Lee’s friendship and support over the years and sincerely thank him for his leadership and numerous contributions.”
Commitment to Leadership and Community
Pandolfo is a founding member of the Women’s Leadership Council at AEG and actively participates on the L.A. Sports and Entertainment Commission and the City of Carson’s Economic Development Commission.
Diverse Sports Experience
With this promotion, Pandolfo—who hails from Chicago and previously worked for the Los Angeles Dodgers after graduating from St. Norbert College in Wisconsin—will become one of the few sports executives with experience across teams in the MLB, NFL, MLS, NHL, and NBA.
Excitement for the Future
“I am thrilled to join the talented team at Crypto.com Arena and look forward to collaborating with the arena’s management team and partners to continue delivering exceptional experiences that shape the future of culture and entertainment,” she expressed.
Persons
Katie Pandolfo, Dan Beckerman, Lee Zeidman
Company Names
Crypto.com, AEG, Dignity Health Sports Park
Titles
Grammy Awards, NCAA regional men’s basketball tournament, Olympic and Paralympic games
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