EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ (CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — The New Jersey Nets have named Alex Diaz as SVP and GM of Arena Operations, working originally as the team’s liaison with the New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority, which runs the Continental Airlines Arena. He will eventually oversee operations at the team’s new Frank Gehry-designed arena in Brooklyn, which is scheduled to open for the start of the 2009-10 season.
Until then, Diaz will be involved in several aspects of the arena’s development, including the creation of the standard operating procedures. Once open, he willl be responsible for all managerial duties necessary to run the multi-purpose, 18,000-seat arena, including operations, engineering, scheduling, booking, marketing, food and beverage, security, housekeeping, event coordination/services and parking.
Diaz previously worked as GM of the Miami Heat’s AmericanAirlines Arena, while also serving as SVP for the past two years.
“Alex has proven that he knows how to successfully run a new dynamic arena,” said Nets Sports & Entertainment CEO Brett Yormark in a statement. “He provides us with best practices and has shown the ability to thrive in a competitive environment. While we are at the Continental Airlines Arena, he will work closely with the NJSEA and to continue to improve our customer service. Alex’s experience and deep understanding of arena management will help us in our operational transition to Brooklyn.” –by CelebrityAccess Staff Writers
