Opry Entertainment Group Promotes Williams

Sally Williams, General Manager of Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, has been promoted to VP, Business and Partnership Development for the Opry Entertainment Group. Williams, who originally joined the company in 1999, spent seven years coordinating concerts and other events for the Opry Entertainment Complex. Having managed the Ryman Auditorium since 2008, she will continue to serve as Ryman Auditorium General Manager.

“Since taking on the role of General Manager, Sally has done a tremendous job leading the Ryman Auditorium business and she has grown public and music industry regard for the treasured and perennially awarded venue,” said Steve Buchanan, President, Opry Entertainment Group. “In her newly expanded role, she will also focus on intellectual property development, brand expansion opportunities and strategic brand partnerships for the Opry Entertainment Group franchise.”

During Williams’ tenure at the Ryman, the building has been named Pollstar’s Theatre of the Year three years in row; ACM (Academy of Country Music) Venue of the Year three times; SRO Venue of the Year Presented by CMA (Country Music Association) and IEBA (International Entertainment Buyer’s Association) Venue of the Year. In 2010, Williams was named the ACM Promoter of the Year and in 2012, IEBA named her Venue Executive of the Year. The Ryman ended 2012 ranked #15 domestically by Pollstar Magazine in ticket sales in the theatre category.

“The Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium are two of the most beloved names in entertainment,” said Williams. “Over a million people experience these treasures in person every year. I’m excited about the opportunity to work on new projects that will expand our audience, strengthen our existing alliances and bring new partners into the fold.”