The Madison Square Garden Company Names Hank Abate EVP of Venue Management

The Madison Square Garden Company announced that Hank Abate, a well-regarded executive with more than three decades of experience in the entertainment facilities management industry, has been named executive vice president of venue management, effective June 20.  Abate joins the company from Comcast Spectacor, where he served as senior vice president of Spectra Venue Management and Food Services & Hospitality.

In his role at MSG, Mr. Abate will direct all operations for MSG’s portfolio of iconic venues: New York’s Madison Square Garden; The Theater at Madison Square Garden; Radio City Music Hall; the Beacon Theatre; the Forum in Inglewood, CA; and the Chicago Theatre.  With the overarching goal of maximizing the customer experience, he will have daily oversight of financial and operational matters, as well as all other matters that impact the company’s facilities.  He will also be responsible for developing and maintaining key relationships that support the business’s goals and help drive the overall advancement of the company.  Abate will report to MSG President and CEO, David O’Connor.

“Our ability to deliver a superior, first-class experience across all of our venues is critical to both our day-to-day business and our growth plan, which includes expanding our portfolio of acclaimed venues,” says O’Connor.  “We are extremely fortunate to have such a seasoned executive in this role.  Hank’s proven track record of driving superior service and a client-focused approach will help ensure that we continue to achieve the standard of excellence that has made MSG a world leader in live sports and entertainment.”

Abate said: “As someone who has worked in the venue business for a long time, it is thrilling to be joining a company that includes some of the world’s most renowned facilities.  I look forward to working with MSG’s venue management team on ensuring we honor MSG’s legacy by driving new innovations in customer service as we continue to deliver unforgettable experiences for our fans and partners.”

Abate brings more than 30 years of experience in managing entertainment facilities, including facility operations, box office oversight, booking and programming, marketing and sales, finance and reporting, and labor management and negotiations.  Throughout his career, he has worked closely with some of the country’s top promoters, agents, and key industry players, along with a number of professional sports teams. Abate joins MSG from Comcast Spectacor, where he served as senior vice president of Spectra Venue Management and Food Services & Hospitality. During his nearly three years with the company, Abate played a key role in merging the operations of Ovations Food Services and Global Spectrum Facilities Management, while overseeing more than 40 facilities with a focus on increasing event activity and driving bottom-line growth.  Prior to Comcast Spectacor, Abate spent 20 years working for SMG Facility Management, where he held a number of key positions, and had principal responsibility for SMG managed arenas and stadiums in more than 120 cities.