New General Manager Steps Up
U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, home of the Minnesota Vikings, has new leadership. Shannon Kelly has been promoted to General Manager, taking over the role of overseeing daily operations and major events at the 73,000-seat venue. Kelly, a St. Paul native, has worked at the stadium since 2018, most recently as Director of Events. Her experience includes planning and managing large-scale events, which made her a strong choice for the job. The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority (MSFA) and Legends/ASM Global, the stadium’s operators, announced the change on June 26, 2025, signaling a fresh chapter for the popular venue.
John Drum Moves to Regional Role
The former General Manager, John Drum, is also taking on a new role. He has been promoted to Regional Vice President for Legends/ASM Global, where he will manage multiple NFL venues across the country. Drum led U.S. Bank Stadium for eight years, guiding it through major events and industry changes. Michael Vekich, chair of the MSFA, praised Drum for his dedication and strong performance. Drum’s new role will allow him to bring his expertise to other stadiums while staying connected to the organization.
Kelly’s Background and Vision
Shannon Kelly brings a wealth of experience to her new position. Before joining U.S. Bank Stadium, she worked with Kroenke Sports & Entertainment in Denver, where she honed her skills in event operations. Kelly holds a bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University and has spent the last four years as the stadium’s Director of Events. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying she looks forward to leading the venue into a bright future. Her deep ties to Minnesota and passion for event management are expected to shape her leadership style.
What This Means for U.S. Bank Stadium
The leadership changes come at a time when U.S. Bank Stadium continues to grow as a hub for sports and entertainment. Opened in 2016, the stadium hosts not only Vikings games but also concerts, college events, and community gatherings. Kelly’s promotion suggests a focus on continuity, as she has been part of the stadium’s success for years. Her experience in event planning will likely ensure smooth operations for major events, from NFL games to large concerts. Fans and stakeholders are optimistic about her ability to maintain the venue’s reputation as a top-tier facility.
Leadership Transition Details
| Name | New Role | Previous Role |
|---|---|---|
| Shannon Kelly | General Manager | Director of Events |
| John Drum | Regional Vice President | General Manager |
Key Dates and Achievements
| Date | Event/Achievement |
|---|---|
| 2016 | U.S. Bank Stadium opened |
| 2018 | Shannon Kelly joined as part of the management team |
| June 26, 2025 | Leadership changes announced |
Looking Ahead
The MSFA and Legends/ASM Global are confident in their new leadership structure. Kelly’s promotion reflects the organization’s trust in her ability to manage one of the NFL’s premier venues. Meanwhile, Drum’s expanded role will help spread the success of U.S. Bank Stadium to other facilities. As Minneapolis continues to host major events, from sports to entertainment, the stadium’s new leadership is poised to keep it a cornerstone of the community. Fans can expect exciting times ahead under Kelly’s guidance, with a focus on delivering memorable experiences.