Charlie Thornton is Co-CEO of CAA ICON, a division of leading entertainment and sports agency Creative Artists Agency (CAA). CAA ICON is the world’s-leading owner’s representative and strategic management consulting firm for public and private sports and entertainment facility owners/operators, professional franchises, and leagues. With more than 50 sports, entertainment, and public assembly projects and over 1,500 consulting engagements, CAA ICON has managed the development of many of the most successful venues around the world, including 11 professional sports leagues totaling nearly $20 billion. CAA ICON offers world-class service in the areas of project management, strategic advisory, feasibility and planning, and beyond.
Along with Co-CEO Marc Farha, Charlie is responsible for developing and directing company strategy and implementing short-term and long-term planning for overall business development. He brings 30 years of experience in the activation and management of high-profile stadium projects and is a Major League Soccer (MLS) and large-scale stadium expert. He has overseen the design and construction of eight MLS stadiums along with the Las Vegas Raiders’ new home, Allegiant Stadium, and the restoration of Wrigley Field.
Before joining CAA ICON in the early 2000s, Charlie served as General Manager for Turner Construction’s Special Projects Division and oversaw the construction of Empower Field at Mile High and various laboratory projects including Colombia University and Yale University.