Michael Hilburn joined the D-backs in 2018. As Vice President, Event Development and Production he leads Arizona Diamondbacks Events and Entertainment (ADEE), the booking and production entity responsible for Chase Field. Joining the D-backs at the time of ADEE¡¯s inception in 2018, Hilburn first led event operations and production prior to adding responsibility for ballpark event sales, booking and promotion in 2021.
Under Hilburn¡¯s leadership, ADEE has set new records for Chase Field in annual event revenue, driven by a diverse slate of public, ticketed events and private functions. With a vision of cementing Chase Field as the premier entertainment venue in the Southwest, Hilburn focuses on opportunities to utilize the ballpark in unique ways and develop events that create lifelong memories for guests. His team is committed to Chase Field being known as the venue that finds a way to say yes, supporting promoters and clients to create exceptional experiences.
Hilburn¡¯s personal event highlights include hosting the World Baseball Classic, MLB Postseason and World Series, WWE Royal Rumble, the Drone Racing League, NCAA events and bowl games, as well as sold-out stadium shows for many of the most prominent and iconic touring artists. He¡¯s also produced high-security events with former presidents and elected officials, large gatherings for religious groups, and many large, complex corporate summits.
As part of the organization¡¯s D-backs for Change initiative, Hilburn is the executive sponsor of the Working Parents and D-backs Veterans Team Player Resource Groups (TPRGs).
Born and raised near Seattle, Washington, Hilburn graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Political Science. After trading the ¡®liquid sunshine¡¯ of the pacific northwest for actual sunshine in the desert, he and his wife, Laura, are happy to call Arizona home. They live in Tempe with their two children and two rescue dogs but can often be found at Disneyland hanging out with Mickey Mouse and Captain America.