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Brian Byrnes

Senior VP, Sales Marketing
Oklahoma City Thunder



Brian Byrnes joined the Thunder organization in April 2005, and developed and executed the strategic sales and marketing efforts to launch business operations in Oklahoma City in 2008. Byrnes' current responsibilities include oversight of ticket sales, retention and operations; luxury suite sales and hospitality; marketing and communications strategies such as brand management, advertising, promotions, graphic design, digital media, e-commerce and event presentation.
 
Capitalizing on the unique platform of being Oklahoma's first permanent major-league sports team, Byrnes has led the development of unique programming to extend the Thunder brand throughout the state and region.  Loud City has become a destination of pride for the loudest fans in the NBA, while the Devon Thunder Kids Club enjoys one of the most popular memberships in the league.  Off the court, programs such as the Blue Alliance, Kia Thunder Rewards Zone, Thunder Alley and the Rolling Thunder Book Bus serve to unite the community in the Thunder experience.
 
The team’s fan-centric approach, integration into the community, innovation in business practices and use of technology have resulted in strong fan, corporate and community support throughout the Oklahoma. In 2012, ESPN The Magazine ranked the Oklahoma City Thunder No. 1 among over 120 professional sports franchises in overall fan satisfaction while Sports Business Journal recognized the Thunder as the 2013 Sports Team of the Year.
 
Previously, Byrnes served as executive vice president of business operations for the NHL's Phoenix Coyotes, guiding the organization through a rebranding that included a new corporate identity, logos and team uniform.  This effort coincided Byrnes’ leadership on behalf of team ownership to guide the development and transition into a new venue in 2003.  Prior to joining the Coyotes, Byrnes built nearly 10 years of experience with the NHL's Dallas Stars and MLB's Texas Rangers.

Byrnes is actively involved in the Thunder Cares Foundation, Allied Arts, Leadership Oklahoma City, the National Sports Forum, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Oklahoma City Sports Consortium. A graduate of St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Byrnes and his wife Ashley reside with their three children in Edmond.