Posted: April 1, 2003
As part of its continuing efforts to cultivate and sustain new avenues in marketing and customer service, the NBA Phoenix Suns have appointed John Walker to the newly created position of Vice President of Business Development, as announced today by Suns President and Chief Operating Officer Rick Welts.
Walker will lead Customer Relationship Management (CRM) projects including offers utilizing the internal E-Mail networks of business partners, more extensive development of customer databases, and special targeted offers for sports and entertainment performances.
“Our objective is to be on the industry’s cutting edge as it relates to new technology and its potential to enhance our product offerings and customer service,” said Welts. “For 35 years, the Phoenix Suns have been leaders in developing new and more effective ways to achieve this goal, and this new outreach will allow us to continue to set the pace in this vital part of our business.
“We have every confidence that John’s experience and proven track record of success will help serve our customers better. The potential of this area for an organization like ours is tremendous.”
With multiple venues (America West Arena & Dodge Theater), multiple teams (NBA Phoenix Suns, Arena Football League Arizona Rattlers and WNBA Phoenix Mercury) and a variety of entertainment events, CRM initiatives will play an increasingly important role in the future.
Walker has served as Vice President of Ticket Operations and Sales for the past three seasons with the Suns. Overall, he brings 16 years of experience in the ticket sales and operations industry, including stints with Major League Baseball’s Kansas City Royals and the University of Oklahoma.