Atlanta Hawks and State Farm execs earn national recognition for live entertainment

Executives for the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena were recently nationally recognized for leadership in venue operations and live entertainment. Executive Vice President and Chief Facilities Officer Amanda Mann was named Venue Operator of the Year at the third annual Oak View Group Arena Alliance Awards. Executive Vice President of Arena Programming Trey Feazell was recognized in Billboard’s 2026 Touring Power Players. Last year, Billboard ranked State Farm Arena fifth domestically and seventh worldwide in its list of the year’s top venues of its size. “Amanda and Trey represent what makes State Farm Arena successful: outstanding people who understand that bringing great events to Atlanta and delivering a memorable experience for fans is our priority,” said Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena CEO Steve Koonin in a press release. “We’re proud to see their leadership recognized by our industry and equally proud of the teams working alongside them every day that make our venue operate at an optimal level.” The Operator of the Year award recognizes outstanding venue leadership, operational expertise, event production, team leadership, and financial performance. According to the release, winners were selected by a group of more than 120 touring professionals made up of promoters, tour managers, production companies, and other members of the touring community. “To be recognized by the touring and live entertainment community is an incredible honor,” Mann said in a statement. “Knowing that this award was voted on by the tour managers, promoters and production crews who spend their lives on the road makes it extremely meaningful to our team. This award belongs to every member of our operations, facilities, production and guest services teams at State Farm Arena who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every artist, crew and fan feels right at home at our venue.” Billboard’s Touring Power Players list highlights executives who are moving the live entertainment sector forward. “Atlanta is one of the most culturally vibrant cities on the globe, and our mission every day is to curate a diverse calendar that matches the energy of our city,” Feazell said in a statement. “Being named to Billboard’s Touring Power Players reflects the trust and strong relationships that we as a programming team have built across the industry with artists, managers, agents, promoters and show personnel who know State Farm Arena delivers passionate crowds and record-setting nights.  Sustaining that momentum is only possible because of the close partnership we have with our exceptional operations team who ensure every tour we book is positioned for success.”