GAITHERSBURG, Md. (January 20, 2021) – Sodexo, a leading food service and facilities management company committed to improving Quality of Life, today announced the hire of Matthew C. Wagner to the role of Senior Vice President, Business Development, Sports & Leisure North America. A respected industry veteran who has joined the segment’s executive team, Wagner will be instrumental in guiding the company's ambitious growth efforts in the years ahead, using his deep wealth of experience to lead business building initiatives on behalf of Sodexo and Centerplate’s partners.

"I am tremendously excited to collaborate closely with our talented team to bolster our portfolio of partner venues in lockstep with our global network of experts,” said Wagner. "We are eager and motivated to bring a new standard of guest experience to a wide swath of fans, guests and attendees. The future is bright.”

Previously, Wagner served at industry competitor Delaware North, where he led various development teams including the business builders group, business development and partnered with corporate development. He is a proven growth leader, with an instinct and appetite for new business.

"It's more important than ever that we contribute innovative ideas that help our clients grow their businesses and brands to thrive in today’s competitive business landscape," said Steve Pangburn, CEO, Sodexo Sports & Leisure North America. “I can't think of anyone better suited for this role than Matt, who has a deep hospitality background and a high-level vision perfectly suited for communicating the equity that we can bring to our valued venue partners in 2021 and beyond – whether for sports venues, convention centers, zoos, aquariums, botanical gardens or the many types of venues which we serve.”

Wagner’s impressive credentials also include leadership roles for residential real estate appraisal provider Solidifi, First Niagara Bank as senior vice president of its consumer finance division, Goldman & Sachs in its asset management and securities divisions in New York City and with M&T Bank, joining the company through its management development program. Wagner graduated from Cornell University’s Johnson Graduate School of Management with his MBA and received a bachelor’s degree from the University at Buffalo (UB) School of Management. He is an active member of the board of directors of Student Agencies Inc. and The Ralph C. Wilson Explore and More Children’s Museum board.

Photo of Matt Wagner

 

About Sodexo Sports & Leisure North America

Sodexo Sports & Leisure North America is a premier provider to cultural destinations and event venues, including the World War II Museum in New Orleans, the Seattle Aquarium, the famed Hollywood Bowl and Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Working with Centerplate, a Sodexo company, we bring world-class guest experiences to life at the country’s top stadiums, arenas, convention centers, performing arts centers, zoos, aquariums, amusement parks and more. By understanding what matters most—to guests, to fans, to communities—we help make the most of every moment through a strategic approach to hospitality. We craft one-of-a-kind guest experiences that reflect purpose and place, so your presence is valued, your returns are rewarding and your community connections are authentic. Visit the company online to learn more.

 

Media Contact

Paul Pettas, Communications Director, Sodexo Sports & Leisure North America

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