VenueConnect 2025

Kim Bedier
COO
Advantage Training


Kim Bedier is a seasoned venue executive, internationally recognized for leadership excellence. She is passionate about creating and fostering positive work cultures that focus on authenticity, inclusivity and continuous learning. As Chief Operating Officer of Advantage Training, Kim is excited to fulfill its mission to Ignite Change for aspiring and senior leaders alike. Kim most recent in-venue role was as General Manager of Honda Center/OCVIBE in Anaheim, California, home of the NHL Anaheim Ducks. She was responsible for Honda Center and the development of OCVIBE venues located in a 95-acre mixed use district being built around the arena. Previously Kim was Director of Venues & Events at the City of Tacoma, Washington where her portfolio included the iconic Tacoma Dome, the award-winning Greater Tacoma Convention Center, several historic theaters and Cheney Stadium (AAA baseball). Her team in Tacoma was recognized with the IAVM Venue Excellence Award and many other accolades. Kim was also responsible for arts and tourism and seconded for a year to lead the City’s Community and Economic Development department. Currently Dean of the Leadership Institute at the USA Venue Management School, Kim serves on the Board of Regents and as Chair of the Board. Kim also instructs at the Venue Management Association Asia-Pacific VMS and Leadership Institute in Australia. In fact, Kim is one of only two people (along with Dean Hassall) who have taught at every location of both the IAVM and VMA schools. Kim was named one of five inaugural “Women of Influence” in venue management by Venues Today and received the Ray Ward Award for recognition of her contributions to education at IAVM’s Venue Management School. In 2018 she was named Venue Executive of the Year by the International Entertainment Buyers Association (IEBA) (nominated again in 2023). In 2022 industry publication Pollstar/Venues Now included her as a “Women in Live” honoree.

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