Sphere Names Bill Walshe EVP, Global Head Of Venue Operations & Development

Long-time hospitality and travel industry executive Bill Walshe is Sphere’s new executive vice president, global head of venue operations and development, the company announced Dec. 5.

Walshe will drive venue operations, overseeing the processes, standards and structure at Sphere in Las Vegas and will develop, execute and support strategic plans for the company’s business objectives, including the establishment of Sphere venues around the world. Walshe will be based in Las Vegas and report to Jennifer Koester, Sphere’s president and chief operating officer.

“Sphere is a global destination for immersive experiences unlike anywhere else,” Koester said in a statement. “Bill’s expertise across premier brands in international markets will be an asset as we continue to deliver an unparalleled experience for guests, artists, and partners at our Las Vegas venue, while pursuing our long-term growth goals for this next-generation entertainment medium.”

Walshe was most recently chief executive officer of Viceroy Hotel Group, where for more he oversaw a portfolio of hotels and resorts across the United States, Europe, Mexico and The Caribbean. Prior to joining Viceroy, he served as CEO of The Doyle Collection, a Dublin-based hotel group with properties in Ireland, the United Kingdom and the United States. Walshe also previously served as chief marketing officer of the U.A.E.-based Jumeirah Group, where he was responsible for sales, marketing and innovation initiatives across a portfolio of hotels, resorts, and associated leisure businesses. The next iteration of Sphere is planned for Abu Dhabi in U.A.E.

“Throughout my career I have been dedicated to providing elevated hospitality and travel experiences around the world,” Walshe said. “Joining Sphere is a tremendous opportunity to be part of this groundbreaking venue, and I look forward to working with my colleagues across the organization as we continue to scale the business to exceed expectations in Las Vegas and beyond.”