ASM Global has passed the leadership torch at State Farm Stadium to a seasoned insider with nearly two decades of experience under her belt. Melissa Wasson, who has been the facility's assistant GM for the past 13 years, is stepping up as the new general manager, taking over from Andy Gorchov. Wasson's impressive resume boasts extensive hands-on management of over 2,100 events, which have drawn in the crowds—over 20 million fans, to be exact—since the stadium opened its doors in 2006. This promotion signifies a pinnacle in her lengthy affiliation with the venue, which has been the backdrop for major spectacles including Super Bowls and Final Fours.
Wasson takes the lead at a critical time, with the recent hosting of the NCAA Men's Final Four adding to the venue's storied legacy. Kim Grace Sabow, the board chair of the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority, which owns the stadium, championed the appointment. "Melissa Wasson is a wonderful selection, and we look forward to continuing our close collaboration with her," Sabow stated, as reported by ABC 15. Wasson's commitment to the venue is undeniably personal; she's a Glendale native who witnessed the stadium rise from its very foundations, an experience she cherishes deeply.
ABC 15 reported that Wasson is filling the shoes of Gorchov, who made the move to Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas in the spring. Her journey at the State Farm Stadium has been a testament to her dedication to the craft of venue management, including front-row seats to three Super Bowls and two NCAA Men's Final Fours. There's no doubt that Wasson is deeply woven into the fabric of the stadium’s storied history.
Wasson's skills extend beyond just managing a complex calendar of events. Her industry recognition is evident by her role in assisting the NFL during nine Super Bowls and her active participation in the Stadium Managers Association. According to an In Business Phoenix interview, she sits on their "Women in Leadership Deliver and Guest Services committees", and is a voice for State Farm Stadium on the NFL Employee Experience committee. "I grew up in Glendale and was privileged to be part of the construction and opening of State Farm Stadium in 2006," said Wasson, adding, "It has been a thrill to experience every event in the building’s history, and being selected to lead our incredible facility team is the honor of a lifetime."
The pedigree of Wasson's financial acumen is bolstered by her CPA certification and her academic background as a San Diego State University alumna. Before joining the stadium, she honed her financial expertise at American Express and Coopers and Lybrand. With Wasson at the helm, State Farm Stadium is poised to maintain its reputation as a premier venue for sports and entertainment, delivering experiences that resonate with audiences and cementing its place in the competitive landscape of world-class stadiums.
