2025 Women Of Live: Lesley Olenik

Lesley Olenik
SVP, Global Touring | Live Nation

SHOW OF THE YEAR | Charli xcx and Troye Sivan’s “Sweat” tour.
KINDNESS MATTERS | “Act with the heart in every step you take.”

Lesley Olenik is a Women of Live regular for good reason as she shepherds groundbreaking global tours for some of the world’s biggest acts. In 2024, her biggest successes were female artists exploding to new levels.

“The impact of women in music in 2024 was undeniable, with artists like Gracie Abrams, Charli xcx and Billie Eilish reaching new heights,” she said. “Gracie and Charli had breakthrough years — not only with critically acclaimed albums but also with their most successful tours yet, selling out every date and performing in the biggest venues of their careers. Billie continued her global dominance, topping the charts and selling out massive arenas in the round worldwide.”

“What set these artists apart was their ability to stay authentic, deliver unforgettable live performances, and build deep connections with their fans,” she adds. “As an industry, we need to keep this momentum going by creating more opportunities for female artists to headline festivals, major tours, and key industry moments.”

Olenik was particularly proud of how Eilish used her platform to drive real change, including through her Changemaker Ticket.

“Proceeds from these tickets support organizations dedicated to climate justice, reducing carbon pollution, and supporting crucial environmental work,” she said. “Billie’s commitment to reducing environmental impact — through efforts like eliminating single-use plastics, offsetting emissions, and including plant-based food options at all tour stops — has set a new industry standard.”

That approach reflects Olenik’s own vision, which is that success shouldn’t come at the expense of others.

“You can treat others with kindness and respect and still get the job done. Success doesn’t need to come at the expense of putting someone else down. That old school approach needs to change — we should lead with integrity and treat others the way we want to be treated. There’s plenty of room at the top for everyone,” she says.

Along with the above-mentioned headline runs, Olenik is looking forward to what’s next from Lizzo, who returns to touring with shows at L.A.’s Wiltern, New York’s Irving Plaza and First Avenue in Minneapolis.