The LA Galaxy has made changes to their senior management team, with the appointment of Tom Braun as President of Business Operations and Chief Operating Officer, and the promotion of Urel Martinez to Chief Revenue Officer. These moves were announced by Dan Beckerman, President and CEO of AEG. Alongside Chief Creative and Brand Officer Will Misselbrook, Braun and Martinez will lead all business operations for the LA Galaxy, while Head Coach and Sporting Director Greg Vanney will oversee soccer operations.
Beckerman expressed excitement about the new structure, stating that it will provide opportunities for key members of the Galaxy’s leadership team to enhance the internal culture and strategically advance the business operations of the club. He has confidence in the executive team’s ability to serve the best interests of the team’s fans and elevate the business to new heights.
As President of Business Operations and COO, Braun will be responsible for overseeing all day-to-day aspects of LA Galaxy’s business operations. He will report directly to Beckerman and will manage various departments including Revenue and Brand, Business Development, Finance, LA Galaxy Foundation & Community Relations, Communications, and Administration. Braun has been with the club since 2015 and has played a significant role in expanding the LA Galaxy brand and business. He led the organization and execution of the Soccer Champions Tour and the Coachella Valley Invitational, both of which were successful events for the club. Braun was also recognized as a member of Street and Smith’s Sports Business Journal’s Forty Under 40 honorees.
Martinez, in his role as Chief Revenue Officer, will oversee Ticket Sales & Service, Marketing, LA Galaxy Partnerships, and Fan Engagement. He will be responsible for driving revenue efforts, including season ticket sales, sponsorships, marketing, and fan engagement. With nearly two decades of professional sports experience, Martinez has a strong track record in strategic sales and revenue streams. He oversaw ticket sales for the LA Galaxy’s historic match at the Rose Bowl Stadium, which set a Major League Soccer attendance record.
Misselbrook, as Chief Creative and Brand Officer, will lead Galaxy Studios, a brand entertainment studio dedicated to shaping the future of the LA Galaxy. He will focus on creating unique narratives and experiences to establish the team as an innovator and leader within MLS, as well as developing partnership opportunities that resonate with fans and the brand. Misselbrook will also be responsible for Creative Development, Social & Digital Media, Game Presentation, and Events. He joined the Galaxy in 2023 with experience in a similar role with the Washington Commanders in the NFL.
Overall, these changes to the LA Galaxy’s senior management team aim to strengthen the club’s business operations and enhance its position within the MLS.