MGM recruits Kliavkoff to drive entertainment and sports interests

MGM

MGM Resorts International has recruited George Kliavkoff as president of entertainment and sports, to drive the organisation’s role in the evolving marketplace, in addition to developing and maintaining partnerships within the industry.

Kliavkoff is to be responsible for the operations, finance, strategy, booking, marketing, sponsorships and ticketing for MGM Resorts’ more than 30 theatres, showrooms and arenas, including T-Mobile Arena, MGM Grand Garden, Mandalay Bay Events Center, the Mandalay Bay Beach, Park Theater, the Theater at MGM National Harbor and the MassMutual Center at MGM Springfield.

Joining MGM Kliavkoff can draw from in excess of 20 years experience leading media and entertainment strategies, most recently serving as CEO of Jaunt Inc, an augmented and virtual reality start-up that worked with clients like NFL, NBA, MLB, Manchester United, Uber and Disney.

Kliavkoff is to be based in Las Vegas, and will report to MGM Resorts President Bill Hornbuckle.

Regarding the appointment, Hornbuckle commented: “George is joining our company at an exciting time, and will play a key role as we both build on existing successful partnerships, as well as continue to expand our industry-leading sports and entertainment offerings.

“His innovative approach and knowledge in the entertainment and digital world will strengthen our reputation as a company that provides world-class experiences for our guests to enjoy.”

Hornbuckle also announced that MGM is to continue its business relationship with Richard Sturm, the company’s long-serving president of entertainment and sports, by penning an exclusive three-year consulting agreement with his new Las Vegas Live Entertainment and Sports venture.

As part of that agreement, Sturm will continue to personally provide business advice and oversee key relationships for the company.

Hornbuckle added: “Richard is an icon in the Las Vegas sports and entertainment world, and we are thrilled to continue his relationship with the MGM Resorts family.

“Many of the city’s most exciting and successful events over the last two decades can be attributed to Richard’s relationships and deep industry knowledge.”