PHOENIX, Ariz.—Visit Phoenix has recently appointed Joel Koester as executive director of the Phoenix Sports & Events Commission. Launched in July 2024, the commission was created to attract a diverse portfolio of sports, arts, and cultural events to drive economic impact across Greater Phoenix.
In his new role, Koester will lead efforts to secure, grow, and host major sporting and entertainment events for the region, including youth and amateur sports events that align with the region’s strengths.
Koester brings more than 13 years of experience in the sports tourism industry. He most recently served as director of sports sales for the Tulsa Sports Commission, where he played a vital role in hosting more than 600 youth, amateur, and professional sporting events in the Tulsa region. During his time in Tulsa, he helped secure major events such as the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships, Big 12 Conference Championships, and the opening of the $23 million USA BMX national headquarters. He has also earned honors such as Connect Sports magazine’s 40 Under 40, the Connect Sports Game Changer Award, and multiple SportsEvents magazine Readers’ Choice Awards.
“We’re honored to welcome Koester to the Visit Phoenix team at such a pivotal moment in our organization’s journey,” says Ron Price, president and CEO 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.”
