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AEG didn’t need to look far to find the new GM of the iconic Arena in downtown Los Angeles: On Thursday (May 8), the company announced it had promoted Katie Pandolfo from the nearby AEG-owned Dignity Health Sports Park to the post, effective June 1. She succeeds Lee Zeidman, who announced his retirement in March.
Pandolfo has more than 25 years of experience in venue management, including at Dignity Health Sports Park, home to the LA Galaxy Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise, which has hosted seven MLS Cup Championship matches since it opened in 2003. The stadium was also the home of the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers from 2017 to 2019, and it has hosted several international sports exhibitions, including Championship Boxing and Olympic and World Cup Qualifying Matches.
“Under her tenure and guided by her leadership, the 125-acre [Dignity] campus in Carson, CA has welcomed more than 25 million guests,” according to a press release announcing Pandolfo’s promotion. “In taking on this role, Pandolfo becomes one of the few leaders in sports to have experience that spans across all major league sports: MLB, NFL, MLS, and now NHL and the NBA.”
As GM of the Arena, Pandolfo will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the venue that is home to the Los Angeles Lakers of the NBA, the Los Angeles Kings of the NHL and the Los Angeles Sparks of the WNBA, as well as concerts and family shows. Pandolfo will report directly to Dan Beckerman, president/CEO at AEG.
“Katie brings a wealth of experience to this role having guided the operations and management of Dignity Health Sports Park for over two decades,” said Beckerman in a statement. “She is a talented leader with a proven track record of success in delivering world class events and an incredible reputation for guiding and motivating her team. Her dedication and passion will be invaluable assets in leading Arena into the future, especially as the arena continues to build its legacy as a premier sports and entertainment destination with high-profile global events on the horizon, including the 2026 GRAMMY® Awards, the 2027 NCAA Regional Men’s Basketball Tournament, and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic games.”
Pandolfo is a founding member of AEG’s Women’s Leadership Council and serves on the LA Sports and Entertainment Commission (LASEC) and the City of Carson’s Economic Development Commission.
“ Arena is more than just a venue, it is a renowned destination and the home of championship teams and iconic performers and events that has been at the forefront in driving live sports and entertainment, delivering innovative guest services and building community,” said Pandolfo in a statement. “I am excited to join the talented team at 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.”
Zeidman will remain an advisor to aid in the transition before retiring later this year.
“Lee has made an indelible and lasting impact on AEG, Arena and the city of Los Angeles and his retirement later this year will mark the end of a remarkable chapter in his career,” added Beckerman. “I am grateful for Lee’s friendship and support over these many years and wholeheartedly thank him for his years of leadership and numerous contributions.”
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