VenuesNow 2026 All-Star Honoree: Justin Miller

Justin Miller
Vice President, North American Venues
AEG Presents

FAVORITE PLACE TO WATCH FROM YOUR OWN VENUE
“I’m not a promoter but I act like one at shows. You’ll typically find me in the back or in the balcony.”

Detroit-based Justin Miller was named vice president of North American venues for AEG Presents in May, alongside co-honoree Chelsea Cunningham. Miller began his live events career in 2001 as a touring stage manager and guitar tech. In 2003, he took his first venue role as the production manager at the Royal Oak Music Theatre and then served as GM and served as project manager on major renovations at the Royal Oak Music Theatre, Masonic Temple Detroit, The Agora Cleveland, Jacobs Pavilion and Globe Iron. Miller moved to The Masonic Detroit in 2018 as GM and VP of Operations. In his new role, Miller leads national oversight of venue capital improvements and maintenance, reporting to Brent Fedrizzi, President of North American Regional Offices at AEG Presents.

What do you consider your greatest successes over the last year?

Working with staff in multiple markets, listening to patrons, tweaking our offerings while staying ahead of patron demands and improving the fan experience was a huge win this past year. 

What were the biggest challenges you faced over the past year and how did you overcome them?

Identifying, investing in and supporting leadership in the field. We kept our focus on priorities and goals while clearly defining expectations to help provide a path forward for future leaders. 

What is your take on the general health of the live market this year?

Consumer spending is evolving and fans are more selective about who and what they’re spending on. 

How has your company improved upon hospitality and the overall fan experience?

We’re listening. Humbling yourself as an organization long enough to really consider the feedback and interactions you’re having with your fans is critical to improving the experience you’re offering.   

What’s next? 

Onward and upward. We’re constantly looking for new opportunities in existing and new markets. Kicking the tires on venues, partnerships and staying ahead of an everchanging live entertainment landscape.