Spectra Names Jim Grafstrom General Manager for Temple University’s Liacouras Center 

New leader – and Temple grad – plans to work closely with the community in shaping mix of Center events 

PHILADELPHIA (Oct. 20, 2021) — Spectra, one of the industry’s top private management and hospitality companies, has named Jim Grafstrom as General Manager for the Liacouras Center at Temple University. He brings 20 years of experience in venue, event, and sports management to his new role. 

Grafstrom will join the Liacouras Center on November 1 from the Crown Complex in Fayetteville, N.C., where since 2013 he served as the facility’s General Manager. In his new role, Grafstrom will oversee daily operations including contract negotiations, financial planning, marketing initiatives, and event booking.  

Grafstrom is a native Philadelphian, graduated from Temple with a bachelor’s degree in Sport and Recreation Management in 2002, and started his career in the live events industry at the Liacouras Center. He looks to deepen Spectra’s relationship with the university, focus on community outreach, and analyze and optimize daily business operations. 

“I’m incredibly excited to be coming home to Temple University and the Liacouras Center,” Grafstrom said. “I started my career at this venue as a guest services usher, and as a student I worked as a security guard. I look forward to working closely with the University and Athletic Department, and to getting involved again in this great community.” 

“I’m looking forward to working closely with Jim and his team,” said Michael Scales, Associate Vice President of Business Services at Temple University.“ It’s clear he understands the role of the Liacouras Center in supporting the academic mission of Temple, Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, and surrounding community. I’m confidant Jim has the requisite skills to be successful and a deep commitment to the inclusive, diverse programming our community has come to expect.” 

Previously, Grafstrom served as general manager for the Kovalchick Complex on the campus of Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and from 2006 to 2010 as an Operations Manager and Assistant General Manager at Liacouras Center. He also served in operations roles at Wells Fargo Center. 

Grafstrom and his family, wife Mari and their three children, will relocate to the Philadelphia area. Spectra has managed the Liacouras Center since 2001. 

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About Spectra   

Spectra is an industry leader in hosting and entertainment, partnering with clients to create memorable experiences for millions of visitors every year. Spectra’s unmatched blend of integrated services delivers incremental value for clients through several primary areas of expertise: Venue Management, Food Services & Hospitality, and Partnerships. Learn more at SpectraExperiences.com. Follow Spectra on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. 

About The Liacouras Center 

The Liacouras Center (www.liacourascenter.com), is a 10,000-seat state-of-the-art arena located on Temple University's campus in Philadelphia. The venue is a full entertainment arena featuring a wide variety of events including concerts, family shows, comedy shows, and more. It is also the home of Temple Men's Basketball.