AJ brings over 15 years of expertise in large-scale event production, non-profit management, and operational strategy to this role as Chief Operations Officer at French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI). Since previously serving as Operations Director at FQFI (2015-2019), he has added professional expertise in process improvement, cost management, sustainability practices, and strategic stakeholder collaboration. These most notably come from global sporting event environment leadership roles with FIFA World Cup 2022 and within the local organizing committee of the World Athletics Championships Oregon22.

Originally from outside Eugene, OR, AJ’s career spans various industries (non-profit, sports, venues and event organizations) and has always had a calling towards producing live events & moments. AJ has a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration & Marketing, with a minor in Sociology from Pacific University. Throughout his career, he has thrived when given the ability to innovate and implement strategic solutions, bring together and lead diverse teams, and deliver transformative outcomes by aligning operations with organizational goals.

Driven by FQFI’s community-focused programming and cultural celebration, he is excited to be put back to work to support the organization’s mission of uplifting the vibrant heritage of New Orleans. When not working, AJ loves spending time with his family outside and unplugged in nature (hiking, camping, fishing), obsessing over basketball and NBA statistics, and cheering on the Philadelphia Eagles. Go Birds!

Learn about the full FQFI team.