Visit Phoenix Appoints Joel Koester as Executive Director of Phoenix Sports & Events

Joel Koester has been named the executive director of the new Phoenix Sports and Events Commission and will lead efforts to secure, grow, and host major sporting and entertainment events for the region.

Koester most recently served as director of sports sales for the Tulsa Sports Commission, where he played a key role in hosting more than 600 youth, amateur, and professional sporting events to the region. He helped secure events such as the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships, Big 12 Championships and the opening of the $23 million USA BMX national headquarters.

“We’re honored to welcome Koester to the Visit Phoenix team at such a pivotal moment in our organization’s journey,” said Ron Price, president and chief executive officer of Visit Phoenix. “His extensive experience, strategic insight, and deep understanding of the sports and events landscape will be invaluable as we continue to elevate Greater Phoenix’s profile on the global stage. We are confident that his leadership will help us forge new partnerships, attract world-class events, and further position our region as a premier destination for sports, business, and entertainment.”

The commission was launched in July 2024 by Visit Phoenix and will have a focus on youth and amateur sports, arts and culture festivals, entertainment experiences, and emerging tech events.