Tony Watson Selected as New General Manager of the Lansing Center, Jackson Field and Groesbeck Golf Course

The Lansing Entertainment & Public Facilities Authority (LEPFA) and Legends Global, premier partner to the world’s greatest live events, venues, and brands, today announced the appointment of Tony Watson as general manager of Lansing Center, the Michigan capital’s downtown convention and event hub.

In addition to the Lansing Center, Watson will also oversee Groesbeck Golf Course, Lansing’s 18-hole municipal course that celebrates its centennial in 2026, and Jackson Field, home to the Lansing Lugnuts, the High-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics.

Watson brings 25 years of experience in venue management to the three city-owned properties, most recently serving as assistant general manager at Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas in Irving, Texas.

Focused on strategic growth across LEPFA’s portfolio, Watson emphasizes operational excellence, safety, and guest satisfaction. “It’s an honor to join the Lansing team and lead these three incredible venues that are so deeply connected to the community,” Watson said. “As someone who thrives on building connections, I’m committed to creating an environment where each employee’s voice is valued, and where trust and teamwork drive memorable experiences for our guests.”

“Tony brings an ideal mix of leadership experience, community focus, and operational expertise,” said Maureen McNulty Saxton, chairwoman of the LEPFA Board of Commissioners. “Under his guidance, the Lansing Center, Jackson Field, and Groesbeck Golf Course will continue to thrive as places where residents and visitors alike come together to connect, celebrate, and do business.”

“We are excited to welcome Tony to Lansing,” said Julie Pingston, president & CEO of Choose Lansing, the destination management organization for the Lansing region. “The Lansing Center plays a vital role in our region’s tourism and meetings economy, and Tony’s leadership will help ensure we continue to grow as a destination for conventions, sports, and events from across Michigan and beyond.”

Located two blocks from Michigan’s State Capitol, the Lansing Center offers nearly 72,000 square feet of column-free exhibit space, 13,320 square feet of ballroom space, and 12 breakout rooms. The facility is connected via skybridge to the DoubleTree by Hilton Lansing and is steps away from Jackson Field and The View!, a 2,000-square-foot event venue overlooking the ballpark.

“Tony Watson will be an outstanding addition to the LEPFA team,” said Dan Hoffend, executive vice president of convention centers, Legends Global, which manages the three Lansing facilities. “Tony’s leadership at the Irving Convention Center exemplified his ability to inspire teams and elevate guest experiences. We’re thrilled to see him bring that same energy and expertise to Lansing as we continue to strengthen the city’s position as a leading meetings and events destination.”

About LEPFA: With a passion for building community connections and driving economic opportunities, the Lansing Entertainment & Public Facilities Authority powers the most electrifying sports, entertainment, business, and private events in the Lansing region. Our mission is to provide oversight of the Lansing Center, Jackson Field, and Groesbeck Golf Course, as well as community and regional events. By providing safe environments and developing strong relationships with our diverse clients, sponsors, and business neighbors, we serve as a catalyst to enhance both local and regional economic growth. In 2024, LEPFA venues and special events brought more than 472,000 visitors to Lansing with an economic impact of more than $37 million to the local economy.

About Legends Global: Legends Global is the premier partner to the world’s greatest live events, venues, and brands.  We deliver a fully integrated solution of premium services, including feasibility & consulting, owner’s rep, sales, partnerships, venue management, hospitality, merchandise, and content & booking. Through our white-label approach, we keep our partners front and center while leveraging the power of our global network: over 450 venues, 20,000 events, and 165 million guests annually.  To learn more, visit us at www.LegendsGlobal.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.