Las Vegas A’s President Marc Badain To Speak At VenuesNow Conference

Las Vegas A’s President Marc Badain will offer an exclusive update on the MLB team at September’s VenuesNow Conference. He will take the stage to deliver an insider’s look at the team’s relocation, and the transformative project that’s redefining what’s possible for live sports and entertainment in Vegas.

The eighth annual VenuesNow Conference will take place Sept. 9-11 at Resorts World Las Vegas. Presented by Lockton and Oracle, the event marks the debut in the entertainment capital of the world and the first time VNC has expanded to three days. Past events have been hosted in Austin, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Phoenix, New York and Seattle.

VenuesNow Conference is the preeminent forum for live events, sports, and cultural venue owners and partners to explore industry dynamics, share best practices, and discuss future trends. This year, the three-day conference will feature sessions on bookings, hospitality, premium experiences, technology, and a new half-day of curated programming focused on sustainability across all venue types, including energy, water, and waste management, along with strategies to strengthen financial performance, corporate partnerships, and guest experience.

Earlier this week, Black Promoters Collective’s Gary Guidry and Beth Pepper, as well as Oak View Group’s Dr. Debonair Oates-Primus, were announced as the speakers for VNC. Additional speakers that have recently been confirmed include Becky Colwell, General Manager Kia Forum & VP, Live Events at Intuit Dome, Halo Sports & Entertainment; Antony Bonavita, EVP, Chief Venues & Development Officer at Rock Entertainment Group and Cleveland Cavaliers; and Dan Griffis, President, Global Partnerships, Oak View Group.

Along with confirming Badain as a speaker, descriptions have been unveiled for the following panels: 

Stirred, Shaken & Zero-Proof: The Art (and Business) of the Perfect Pour
Part masterclass…part cocktail theatre! This engaging, interactive panel brings award-winning mixologists and venue F&B leaders on stage to craft signature cocktails and zero-proof creations live, while unpacking the deeper strategy behind every pour. With drinks accounting for up to 70% of F&B revenue, what’s in the glass isn’t just about flavor; it’s about branding, guest satisfaction, and bottom-line results.

Event Operations: Creating Efficiencies Through Outsourcing
While venue management companies lean into all-in facility management, smart venue managers know that strategic outsourcing can free up operators to focus on boosting profits and the fan experience. Facility management professionals and venue partners will debate the pros and cons of outsourcing versus in-house functions, and share tips in choosing partners that improve the bottom line.

Culture Is Currency: Unlocking Revenue Through Representation   
In today’s rapidly shifting entertainment landscape, audience diversity isn’t just a social good—it’s a business imperative. This candid panel explores how venues, teams, and brands are expanding their fan base to unlock new revenue, build cultural relevance, and drive growth. From inclusive programming to data-driven engagement, panelists will share real strategies that strengthen community ties and boost the bottom line.

Registration for VenuesNow Conference is open now at venuesnowconference.com. Use the discount code VNCVEGAS for 10% off your registration (valid through Aug. 31).

Hotel accommodations at Resorts World Las Vegas will be available soon for registered VenuesNow Conference attendees.

Stay tuned for more speakers and panel announcements.