Lynx Front Office

Glen Taylor
Owner

On March 23, 1995, Glen Taylor closed the deal that made him majority owner of the Minnesota Timberwolves. He added the title of NBA owner to a list that already included international businessman, state senator, entrepreneur, philanthropist and executive of the year.

Glen Taylor is chairman of the multinational Taylor Corporation, based in Mankato, Minn. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Minnesota State University, Mankato. During this period, he worked part time at Carlson Wedding Service, a print shop specializing in formal invitations. After graduation he continued to work at the company, developing strategies to cut delivery time, improve service and expand offerings. Taylor purchased the company in 1975, assembled a passionate leadership team and dramatically expanded the firm’s capabilities, growing it into one of the largest privately held companies in the United States. Today Taylor Corporation, based in North Mankato, includes more than 70 subsidiaries providing business and personal communications products, technologies and marketing services. Other enterprises owned by Glen are the Minneapolis Star Tribune newspaper and businesses in securities, agricultural, and medical fields.

He continued his education at the Harvard Graduate School of Business. In 1997, Mankato State University awarded Taylor their first honorary doctorate. Taylor received the degree of Honorary Doctor of Laws for his distinguished professional career and volunteer service. In October 2001, Taylor was inducted into the Minnesota State University, Mankato Hall of Distinction.

Taylor’s business savvy has been recognized by Corporate Report magazine, which honored him as its Executive of the Year (1987), and the Sales and Marketing Executives of Minneapolis/St. Paul, who awarded him with their Sales Executive of the Year Award (1999). He was also inducted into the Minnesota Hall of Fame (2002) by Twin Cities Monthly Magazine.

Taylor was elected to the Minnesota Senate in 1980, where he served until 1990. He became assistant Senate minority leader in 1982. From 1984 to 1986, he served as Senate minority leader. While in the Senate, Taylor was instrumental in providing leadership in the areas of higher education, child care and economic development policies. In October of 2008, Taylor was named chairman of the NBA’s Board of Governors, a position he still holds in 2015. Taylor and his family have provided financial assistance and participated in missions to Africa, Turkey, Egypt, China and Central America to support children.

Taylor and his wife, Becky, live in Mankato. Their children and grandchildren enjoy attending many of the Timberwolves games.

LIMITED PARTNERS

WILLIAM F. BIEBER - Chairman of ATEK Companies, Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Bieber resides in Minnetonka, Minnesota.

JOHN BOLLERO - A retired commodity trader. A native of Decatur, Illinois, now resides in Palm Beach, Florida and Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.

RALPH W. BURNET - Chairman of Coldwell Banker Burnet, Edina, Minnesota, and Owner and Chairman of RWB Hospitality LLC. Burnet resides in his hometown of Wayzata, Minnesota.

R. WYNN KEARNEY, JR. - Kearney is a retired orthopedic surgeon who resides in Mankato, Minnesota, his hometown.

TERI E. POPP - President of Minnesota Military Family Tribute and retired attorney residing in Orono, Minnesota.

WILLIAM J. (BILL) POPP - Owner/President of POPP Communications, Golden Valley, Minnesota. A native of Minneapolis, Popp resides in Orono, Minnesota.

JOYCE SEXTON - President of Sexton Family Foundation. Sexton resides in Las Vegas, Nevada.

WILLIAM SEXTON - Retired President/Owner of Old Northwest Company. Sexton resides in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Rob Moor
Chief Executive Officer

Rob Moor became chief executive officer of the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2004 following 10 years as the Team’s President. After assisting Glen Taylor in the purchase and reorganization of the Team, Moor was involved in securing a WNBA Franchise in 1998 with the goal of providing year-round men’s and women’s professional basketball in Minnesota. From 2004 to 2007 Moor managed Target Center building operations as well as both the Timberwolves and Lynx franchises, and is currently working closely with the city of Minneapolis to remodel the arena to be a modern state-of-the-art NBA and WNBA arena.

Under Moor’s guidance the Franchise operates with organizational guiding principles which focus on six values: “To Play Hard, Play Together, Play with Passion, Think Innovatively, Have Fun and Be a Pro.”

In a career that began in the film industry at MGM Studios in Culver City, Calif., Moor was involved in the merger with United Artists and the subsequent sale of the studio to Ted Turner. Following MGM, Moor worked for Turner Entertainment several years before moving to 20th Century Fox. While at Fox, Moor had the opportunity to join the National Hockey League’s Los Angeles Kings, where he transitioned his entertainment career to sports. Moor worked with the Kings for seven years before moving to Minnesota to lead the Timberwolves.

In addition to being the chair of Meet Minneapolis Convention and Visitors Association, Moor enjoys volunteering and working with community organizations. Born in Geneva, Switzerland, Moor lived in Europe until he moved to the United States in 1966. Moor currently resides in Plymouth, Minn.

Chris Wright
President

This season will be Chris Wright’s 25th year with the Timberwolves organization and 12th as the team’s president. Wright is responsible for the day-to-day business operations of the team.

He leads a senior management group that is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the business operations of the franchise. By developing a culture driven by the values of thinking innovatively, playing hard, playing together, playing with passion and having fun, Wright and his senior management team are integrating the business and basketball operations to meet the strategic and financial goals of the team.

As president, Wright also articulates the purpose for the organization, the teams “why”, which is to Be A Pack and to Believe, Inspire and Unite our fans. He believes this can be achieved with unparalleled customer service and by connecting with and engaging in our community in hundreds of different ways; whether coming to the arena, watching a game on television, purchasing a ticket online, or meeting players and staff in the community, Timberwolves fans know that they are the sole focus of the organization’s efforts.

Wright believes that by developing experiences that emphasize being entertaining, captivating, thrilling, inclusive and tribal in all we do, that the Timberwolves will have the ability to achieve great things. He believes in hiring a staff that lives the company core values, who are incredible brand ambassadors who strive to create memorable moments for our key stakeholders every day.

A native of England, Wright came to the United States in 1978. Prior to joining the Timberwolves, he spent three years working for the state of Minnesota, first as a consultant working on bids for major national and international events, including the programming of the $17.4 million National Sports Center in Blaine, Minn. Prior to that, Wright also served as general manager for two Major Indoor Soccer League Teams, the Pittsburgh Spirit (1981-86) and the Minnesota Strikers (1986-87).

Wright, who graduated from Carnegie College of Physical Education in Headingly, Leeds, Yorkshire, England, is very involved in and consults with many local charities and youth sports programs. He was elected to and serves on the advisory board of the Minnesota State University Sports Management Program. He resides in Eden Prairie, MN, with his wife Walla and daughter Christy. Wright also has two sons Jeff and Ned and daughters-in-law Amy and Laura and grandson Brennan.

Roger Griffith
Executive Vice President

Roger Griffith joined the Timberwolves organization in 1994 as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. In this role, he is responsible for all accounting, box office, budgeting, finance and personnel operations for the organization.

In 1999, he added the duties of chief operating officer of the WNBA's Minnesota Lynx to his responsibilities, and transitioned to executive vice president of the Lynx prior to the 2009 WNBA season.

Prior to coming to the Timberwolves and Lynx, Griffith gained a variety of experience in public and private industry. He previously worked for Taymark, a Taylor Corporation company, as division manager of the ad specialty direct mail division. He also worked for Northwest Airlines as the director of internal audit and spent time with a public accounting firm.

A native of Shakopee, Minn., Griffith graduated magna cum laude from Augsburg College in 1984 with a degree in business administration with a concentration in accounting. In 1988, he earned his MBA in general management from the University of Minnesota.

Griffith resides in Eagan, Minn., with his wife, Jean, and daughters, Emma and Abby.

Carley Knox
Director of Lynx Business Operations
carley.knox@lynxbasketball.com

Carley Knox is entering her sixth season with the Minnesota Lynx and her 11th in the WNBA. In December 2012, she was named the Lynx Director of Business Operations and acts as the primary liaison between the team and WNBA on league-wide business and marketing initiatives. Knox oversees the day to day business operations of the Lynx, including business development, budget management, community relations, scheduling, preseason games, and logistics. Additionally, Knox maintains her role within the development of corporate sales and tickets sales.

Originally hired by the Minnesota Lynx in January 2010 as the Business Development Manager, her focuses included corporate partnerships and ticket sales. She came to Minnesota after spending 5 years with the WNBA’s Detroit Shock where she was the Director of Sales and Marketing.

Knox attended Ohio University and earned degrees in both sports administration and women’s studies. She was also a member of the Ohio University Women’s Soccer Team when they won the Mid-American Conference Championship in 1998. She then went on to coach women’s soccer at St. Bonaventure University in Olean, New York.

Upon returning to Ohio she took a position with an LPGA tournament, specifically The Jamie Farr Owens Corning Classic, where she worked in operations, marketing, and sales. In the fall of 2002 she took a graduate assistantship at Bowling Green State University, where she obtained her M.A. in Sports Administration and Women’s Studies.

In November, 2014 Knox and her wife welcomed their son Oliver into the world. Oliver is a wonderful addition to the family and they currently resides in Minneapolis, MN.

Steve Beno
Director of Premium Seating & Lynx Ticket Sales
steve.beno@lynxbasketball.com

Steven Beno Jr. is in his second season as the Lynx Ticket Sales Manager, and is in his fifth year with the Timberwolves/Lynx organization. Prior to taking on his current role with the Minnesota Lynx, he was a Sr. Account Executive in the Timberwolves Premium Seating department, assisting companies entertaining their clients and employees with event suites, club seating, Lexus Courtside Seating and other seating options that best fit their needs. Before joining the Wolves, he oversaw all ticket operations of the Albany River Rats of the American Hockey League as the Vice President of Ticket Sales.

As Lynx Ticket Sales Manager, Beno is accountable for maximizing revenue from the sale of tickets to consumers, groups, and corporations while managing the Lynx ticket sales staff. Beno is also responsible for overseeing the day-to-day sales process of Lynx full and partial season ticket packages as well as Lynx Group Ticket initiatives. He believes this is best accomplished through hard work, attention to detail, and outstanding customer service and follow through.

Originally from Green Bay, WI and hence a cheese head, Steve has the redeeming quality of being an alumni of the University of Minnesota and likewise, a Gopher.

Charlie Romans
Lynx Manager of Sales and Service
charlie.romans@lynxbasketball.com

Charlie Romans is entering his first season as Manager of Sales and Service for the Minnesota Lynx. He joined the Timberwolves and Lynx organization as a Business Development Executive during the 2008-09 season. As the manager of the Lynx sales and service, Charlie is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations within those realms.

Charlie attended the University of Minnesota, where he earned a degree in Sports Management. Romans was born and raised in Milwaukee, WI and is the proud father of Isabella (age 4) and Joey (age 1). Away from the office, he enjoys spending time with his family, exercising and staying in touch with friends. Charlie currently resides in Maple Grove, MN.

Erin Henning
Sr. Account Executive, Lynx Sales and Service
erin.henning@lynxbasketball.com

Erin Henning started with the organization as an intern in the ticket sales and marketing department for the Timberwolves in October 2006, joining the Fan Relations department in 2007. She was held the role of Fan Relations Manager, overseeing the Fan Relations department for the Minnesota Lynx. With her proven dedication of service and sales, she transitioned into her current position as a Senior Account Executive, where she is committed to delivering exceptional customer service to Lynx fans, while generating new revenue for the organization.

A native of Lake Crystal, Minn., Henning attended Gustavus Adolphus College, where she double majored in Political Science and Communication Studies. While in college, Henning played lacrosse and studied abroad in London for six months.

Henning has been a sports fan all her life. She played softball and volleyball in high school and has been a youth softball coach for several years. She enjoys being with her friends and family, traveling, listening to live music, and watching scary movies. Henning moved to the Twin Cities in 2006 and resides in Minneapolis.

Matt Corners
Sr. Account Executive, Lynx Sales and Service
matt.corners@lynxbasketball.com

Matt Corners joined the Timberwolves & Lynx organization in December of 2011 as an Inside Sales Associate. After two Timberwolves seasons in the Inside Sales Department, he joined the Lynx front office as Account Representative in April 2013. In his current role, Matt is responsible for generating new revenue for the Lynx organization through the sale of season ticket and group ticket packages to consumers, corporations, and nonprofit organizations.

Matt graduated from Minnesota State University, Mankato in May of 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in Sport Management. Prior to joining the Timberwolves & Lynx, he was a Corporate & Group Sales intern for the Mankato MoonDogs of the Northwoods League.

Corners was born in Fort Collins, CO and grew up in Stevens Point, WI. Outside of the office, he attends networking events and serves on the board of directors for Young Professionals of the Twin Cities. He currently lives in Minneapolis and enjoys attending live music and sporting events, golfing, and snowboarding.

Emma Sandstrom
Sr. Account Executive, Lynx Sales and Service
emma.sandstrom@lynxbasketball.com

Emma Sandstrom joined the Minnesota Lynx in April 2013. As an Account Representative, she is responsible for selling various ticket packages, including both full and partial season tickets and group tickets, while expanding brand awareness of Minnesota Lynx Basketball and building relationships.

Prior to joining the Lynx organization she was a part of the Timberwolves College Night Sales Team. Emma graduated from the University of Minnesota in May 2013 with a bachelor's degree in Education and minor in Sport Management. Emma is continuing her education in Sport Management, doing her Masters at the University of Minnesota.

A native of Minnetonka, Minn., Emma enjoys watching and playing all sports, music, traveling, outdoor activities, and volunteering. She currently resides in St. Louis Park.

Tige Hutcheson
Account Representative, Lynx Sales and Service
tige.hutcheson@lynxbasketball.com

Tige Hutcheson joined the Minnesota Lynx in May 2014 as a Lynx Sales and Service Associate. After three months serving that role, he joined the sales team as an Account Representative in July 2014. In his current role, Hutcheson is responsible for bringing new fans and businesses aboard through the sale of memberships, groups, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Hutcheson graduated from Minnesota State University in the summer of July 2014 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Sport Management and a minor in Athletic Coaching. He also spent six seasons on the sidelines for the Minnesota State men’s basketball team as a Student Assistant, serves as a volunteer at Habitat for Humanity International, and is currently pursuing his Master’s Degree in Business Administration at MSU.

A proud native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Hutcheson enjoys live music, sporting events, and going to the zoo. He currently resides in Minneapolis.

Micaela Erickson
Account Representative, Lynx Sales and Service
micaela.erickson@lynxbasketball.com

Micaela Erickson joined the Minnesota Lynx and Timberwolves organization in April 2015 as an Account Representative. In her current role, she is responsible for increasing revenue by selling memberships, various packages, and group experiences while building client relationships with consumers, businesses and nonprofit organizations.

Micaela graduated from Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, S.D. with a Business Administration degree and a minor in Sport Management. She is currently enrolled in Dakota Wesleyan University's Master's of Business Administration (M.B.A.) program.

Prior to joining the Lynx staff, Micaela worked and played college basketball for DWU at the World's Only Corn Palace in Mitchell, S.D.; where she worked with management, operations, and sponsorships at this one-of-a-kind event facility.

Originally from Minnesota, Micaela is an avid Minnesota sports fan and enjoys spending time at the lake, traveling and shopping. She recently opened up her own online women's clothing boutique, Mic's Chic Boutique.

Matthew Terry
Account Representative, Lynx Sales and Service
matthew.terry@lynxbasketball.com

Matthew Terry began his career with the Minnesota Twins and the Minnesota Wild before joining the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx organization in April of 2014 as an Inside Sales Associate. After leading the department in Hustle and 2nd overall in the organization for new Memberships on the Timberwolves side of the court, Matt was promoted to join the Lynx Sales Staff in Spring of 2015.

Matt, a University of Minnesota Alum, was born and raised in the Twin Cities before he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 2007. Having traveled around the world on the USS Theodore Roosevelt, Matt’s experiences help him connect with our Military Fan Base.

Matt is fully dedicated to making sure our fans have the most memorable experiences possible. Whether it’s through joining our Lynx Membership program, entertaining clients or employees through the use of our suites, or bringing the entire family or youth sports team down for a group outing, he will make sure everyone talks about their experience for years to come.

Kyle Burns
Account Representative, Lynx Sales and Service
kyle.burns@lynxbasketball.com

Ashley Carlson
Lynx Public Relations Manager
ashley.carlson@lynxbasketball.com

Ashley Carlson is entering her second season as the Public Relations Manager of the Minnesota Lynx. She joined the Timberwolves and Lynx organization prior to the 2012-13 NBA season, spending a season with the Timberwolves as a PR Associate before becoming the Lynx PR Associate during the 2013 championship run. As Public Relations Manager, Carlson is responsible for handling all local and national media requests involving players, coaches and front office personnel.

Prior to joining the Timberwolves and Lynx Organization, Carlson previously worked with the University of Iowa Athletic Communications Department as an undergraduate assistant for three years. During her time with the Hawkeyes she served as the primary media contact for the men’s and women’s swimming and diving team and the women’s rowing team, including planning and coordinating all media duties for the 2012 Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving Big Ten Championships.

Carlson graduated from the University of Iowa with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communications and Sports Studies. She currently resides in Burnsville, Minn.

Tara Smith
Lynx Membership Program Supervisor
tara.smith@lynxbasketball.com

Tara Smith joined the Minnesota Lynx in January 2013. As a Fan Experience Executive, she is responsible for servicing season ticket member accounts year-round and enhancing their overall game day experience.

Before joining the Lynx organization, Tara was an intern for both the Minnesota Timberwolves and Minnesota Twins in their Community Relations Departments in 2012. Tara graduated from the University of Minnesota in May 2011 with a bachelor's degree in advertising and minor in communications. While in college, Tara was involved in the Sport Management Association and Delta Gamma Sorority.

Tara was born in Burnsville, Minn. and enjoys watching all Minnesota sports. During her free time, she plays co-ed soccer and spends time with her family and friends. She is a board member on the Red Shoe Society, a young professionals group dedicated to raising awareness for Ronald McDonald House Charities. She currently resides in downtown Minneapolis.

Whitney Fisher
Account Executive, Lynx Sales and Service
whitney.fisher@lynxbasketball.com

Whitney Fisher is entering her first season as a Fan Experience Specialist for the Minnesota Lynx. She joined the organization as a Sales Associate in the middle of the 2014 Lynx season. As a Fan Experience Specialist, Whitney is responsible for creating a strong foundation for uniquely unforgettable Lynx membership experiences throughout the entire year.

Prior to joining the organization, Whitney graduated from the University of Wisconsin- River Falls in May of 2013. During her time at UWRF, Whitney worked on the Student Life board creating and planning events for the college campus for 3 1/2 years. Many of her customer service and event planning skills that she utilizes with the Lynx were shaped during her time at UWRF.

Whitney was born and raised in northern Wisconsin near Rice Lake. Now, she enjoys going back and visiting the north woods and her family frequently. She loves participating in any activity outdoors and is a big fan of Minnesota sports.