SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, Oct. 4, 2019 (Gephardt Daily) — Steve Starks, chief executive officer of the Larry H. Miller Group of Companies, announced Friday the appointment of Jim Olson as president of the Utah Jazz and Larry H. Miller Sports & Entertainment (LHMSE), effective Monday.
Olson, a 25-year veteran of the organization who has been the executive vice president for LHMSE and president of Vivint Smart Home Arena, will oversee the day-to-day business operations of the Utah Jazz.
As president of LHMSE, Olson will also provide leadership for properties such as Megaplex Theatres, Vivint Smart Home Arena, Salt Lake Bees baseball team, Salt Lake City Stars NBA G League team, Jazz Gaming NBA 2K team, The Zone Sports Network and the Tour of Utah professional cycling race.
“Jim has a comprehensive knowledge, understanding and application of our mission, vision, values, and culture,” said Gail Miller, owner and chairman, Larry H. Miller Group of Companies, in a prepared statement.
“He has articulated a compelling long-term strategy to give back to the community, constantly innovate, improve the fan experience and win an NBA championship. He is an integral part of our team as we manage for the future.”
Olson joined the Utah Jazz in 1994 and has held multiple positions within the organization, including vice president of ticket sales (2003-2006), senior vice president of sales and marketing (2006-2013), chief operating officer of LHMSE (2013-15), and interim president of LHMSE.
Additionally, Olson has had key management responsibilities for the Salt Lake Bees, The Zone Sports Network and the Tour of Utah.
“Jim has had an extensive and successful career with the Larry H. Miller Sports & Entertainment team,” Starks said in a prepared statement.
“He thoroughly understands our community and fan base. I appreciate his focus on continuous improvement and delivering the best guest experiences within our offices, theaters, ballpark, and arena. He is a results-oriented business leader, committed to our industry.”
