IAVM is proud to announce Michael Marion, CVE, General Manager of Simmons Bank Arena in North Little Rock, Arkansas, as the recipient of the prestigious 2025 Charles A. McElravy Award. This award, one of the highest honors in the venue management industry, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and service to IAVM and the profession.
“Michael’s dedication to the venue management industry and his unwavering commitment to mentorship, innovation, and service have left an indelible mark on IAVM and the profession as a whole,” stated Adam Cook, CVE, Chair of the IAVM Board of Directors. “His leadership exemplifies the highest standards of excellence, making him a truly deserving recipient of this year’s McElravy Award.”
Marion’s career in the venue management industry has been defined by his unwavering dedication and diverse experience. Born and raised in Tupelo, Mississippi, Michael’s professional journey began in the music industry, where he advised the Music Maker Productions concert committee at Mississippi State University. During this time, he helped book iconic artists like Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, and Jimmy Buffett. He later worked as an agent for Triad Artists in Los Angeles, representing legendary performers such as Tina Turner, Steve Winwood, and Whitney Houston.
In 1992, Michael transitioned to arena management, serving as Director of the Tupelo Coliseum (now Cadence Arena), where he booked top-tier acts such as the Eagles, Tom Petty, and Van Halen. Since 1997, he has served as General Manager of Simmons Bank Arena, overseeing its success in hosting major acts like The Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, Garth Brooks, and many others. His exceptional work in venue management earned him recognition as Pollstar Magazine’s Facility Executive of the Year in 2004.
A dedicated member of IAVM since 1992, Michael served as the Chair of the IAVM Board of Directors from 2018 to 2019 and continues to serve on the VMS Board of Regents. Michael’s leadership has had a lasting impact on IAVM and the industry at large.
Trevor Mitchell, MBA, FASAE, CAE, CDP, IAVM President & CEO, also reflected on Michael’s contributions, stating, “Michael’s dedication to the venue management industry and his unwavering commitment to mentorship, innovation, and service have left an indelible mark on IAVM and the profession as a whole, making him a truly deserving recipient of this year’s McElravy Award.”
In response to receiving the Charles A. McElravy Award, Michael Marion said, “Receiving the Charles A. McElravy Award feels like winning the floor pass lottery to a Bruce Springsteen concert—an honor I never saw coming but deeply appreciate! A big thank you to the International Association of Venue Managers for this recognition—it’s truly a highlight of my career. Here’s to continuing to elevate the venues we love, one unforgettable event at a time!”
Marion will be presented his award during IAVM’s VenueConnect Annual Conference and Trade Show, July 28-31, in New Orleans, LA.
