LA 500: Darryl Dunn

Darryl Dunn

Chief Executive and General Manager, Rose Bowl Operating Co.

Darryl Dunn has served as chief executive officer and general manager of the Rose Bowl Operating Co. since 1999. He is responsible for managing all aspects of the Rose Bowl Stadium, including contract negotiations with prospective events and ongoing relationships with existing tenants, as well as all financial, marketing, and operational needs. He is extensively involved in long-range planning for the facility and spearheaded the planning and execution of a $183 million renovation for the historic facility that began in 2011. Dunn negotiated 30-year agreements with tenants UCLA and the Tournament of Roses, and long-term agreements with sports marketing companies IMG and Legends. Prior to joining the Rose Bowl, Dunn worked for the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Raiders, Los Angeles Clippers, and the World Cup 1994 Organizing Committee. He is honorary co-chair of the annual NAACP event held in Pasadena.

Enjoy most: Teamwork to identify new business initiative and execute some of the biggest events in the United States.

Proudest moment: Working closely with AEG to develop a music and arts festival as part of a 20-year agreement.

Best advice: Think long term success and plan for that.

Fun fact: I wanted to be a sportswriter.

Bucket list: Attend an important soccer match in Europe.

Hobby/passion: Family, my dogs, and being a fan of Boston Red Sox.