Forty Under 40

COURTESY OF AEG

AEG’s fastest-growing division has established a presence among 115 venues in 12 countries. Reed, the group’s chief financial officer, has been there every step of the way, determining behind the scenes the best business model for the firm and its arena and stadium partners.

“Rob is the gatekeeper on the financial side when it comes to structuring new agreements and ensuring existing agreements are successful,” said Bob Newman, AEG Facilities’ chief operating officer. “He’s my right hand and left hand.”

Lately, Reed has focused his energy on international expansion in South America, where AEG Facilities is pursuing a few projects in Argentina and Brazil. Last year, the firm signed a management contract with a soccer stadium in Brazil, its first deal on the continent.

Reed played a key role for developing AEG Facilities in Sweden and Australia, two international ventures that laid the groundwork for the company extending its footprint overseas.

“His ability to jump from project to project and from country to country, several times over the course of the day, is one of the most valuable traits that we cherish with Rob,” Newman said.

Domestically, Reed points to the development of Staples Center in Los Angeles and Sprint Center in Kansas City among the highlights of his 12-year career with the company. Four years ago, AEG Facilities invested $50 million to help build the Kansas City arena in exchange for a long-term lease, and it has flourished as a top concert venue despite having no major league sports tenant.

So far, it has been worth the risk, Reed said.

“There were a lot of people who said it would not work, and it’s been a huge success … a top 10 [grossing] arena in the country, top 15 in the world,” he said.