Christopher BarrettChris Granger has been named CEO of Oak View Group, operator of Manchester’s 23,500 Co-op Live arena.
Granger had worked as OVG’s interim CEO since July when he took up the position after Tim Leiweke stepped down. Granger was formerly president of the company’s venue management division OVG360.
US-based venue group OVG was formed in 2015 by former AEG CEO Tim Leiweke and former chairman of Live Nation Entertainment and artist manager Irving Azoff. As OVG’s CEO, Granger will lead all aspects of its global businesses.
“Chris’ performance during his tenure as interim CEO has been exceptional,” said OVG chairman Lee Wittlinger. “He seamlessly stepped into the role during a pivotal time and demonstrated tremendous leadership. Chris understands the entire ecosystem of sports and live entertainment and the Board is confident that he is the right executive to lead OVG into its next phase of global growth.”
OVG senior partner Irving Azoff added, “I have known and worked with Chris for nearly 20 years. No one is better for the CEO job. He is uniquely qualified to lead OVG as we continue to build it bigger and better. He shares our passion to deliver for all our clients, fans and artists.”
Granger has more than 30 years of experience in the sports and entertainment industry. Prior to joining OVG360 in 2021, he was group president, sports and entertainment of the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Red Wings, and president and CEO of the Sacramento Kings. He also spent 14 years in senior roles at the National Basketball Association.