June 5, 2017
Digital media, live music executive will oversee strategy and operations
Jesse Mann, whose industry experience includes The Bowery Presents in New York and Dayglo Ventures in New York and Nashville, has joined the AC Entertainment team as senior vice president of strategy and operations.
Mann has more than 20 years of experience in executive leadership positions in the production and live music industries, including interactive and livestreaming events.
“Jesse brings a strong skill set and a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the AC team,” said Ashley Capps, CEO and founder of AC Entertainment. “He was on the cusp of the streaming movement and has worked for some of the top brands in the media industry. He is passionate about music and media, which perfectly matches AC Entertainment. We look forward to having his depth and breadth of experience on our team.”
Mann worked with Peter Shapiro and Dayglo Ventures as the chief strategic officer based in New York and Nashville, Tennessee, overseeing the marketing, digital, creative and sponsorship teams for the Brooklyn Bowl brand, The Capitol Theatre and LOCKN’ Festival, as well as leading the strategy and development for FANS, a social media network platform for fans of music and concerts.
Mann also has served as general manager and chief operating officer of The Bowery Presents, a New York City-based independent music promotion and production company. He handled daily operations, including production, concert operations, digital marketing, media and sponsorships. Mann also helped The Bowery Presents expand operations to Boston, Maine, Philadelphia, Atlanta and New Orleans.
“The events that AC Entertainment produces are fantastic, high standard examples for the industry, and I have attended them as a fan for years,” Mann said. “Ashley and the entire team are top notch, and I am excited to jump right in and get started.”
Mann began his career in 1995 when he helped launch the first independent internet service provider in Washington, D.C. In 2001, he joined HBO to oversee interactive, livestreaming and digital efforts to develop platforms for HBO Sports, including boxing. Mann also produced “Inside the NFL on AOL” and helped launch the HBO On Demand service.
He later joined the digital team at CBS Interactive as the network developed interactive programming extensions alongside their linear programming slate. He developed livestream productions, such as call-in interview shows with participants from “The Amazing Race,” “America’s Next Top Model” and “Survivor,” as well as branded entertainment concepts paired with CBS’ rights to NFL football, The Masters and March Madness.
Mann also managed branded entertainment in New York for Yahoo! Originals, serving as director of production and show runner for pioneering streaming programs, such as the pop culture countdown show, “The 9,” and “The Thread” on Yahoo!’s Shine.
“Jesse has accomplished so much throughout his career,” Capps said. “He is an excellent fit for AC Entertainment as we continue to grow and create new experiences for lovers of the music and arts.”
Mann, who is originally from Baltimore, Maryland, graduated from Bucknell University in 1995. He resides in Nashville with his wife, Mollie, daughter, Eliza, and son, Jacob, and will work out of AC Entertainment’s Nashville office.
About AC Entertainment
AC Entertainment is internationally recognized as an innovative leader in creating, producing, booking and marketing first-class live entertainment experiences – from festivals and concerts to all types of special events.
AC Entertainment is the founder and producer of the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, High Water Festival and the Big Ears Festival, as well as producer of Forecastle Festival and 1,000+ concerts nationally each year.
The company also works with clients and organizations to provide event management, booking and marketing services for their unique needs. AC Entertainment’s venue management division operates five beautiful historic venues – the Tennessee Theatre, Bijou Theatre and newly minted Mill & Mine in Knoxville, as well as The Tivoli Theatre and Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Auditorium in Chattanooga.
