THG Sports North America has developed a new division based in Toronto to leverage the company’s 20 years of experience providing C-level hospitality during professional golf’s signature event, the Masters Tournament, says THG Sports CEO Jon Stromberg.

“With more C-level executives seeking relationship-building opportunities with proven ROI at top-tier sporting events, the timing is perfect to launch this specialized THG Sports division,” Stromberg says.

Augusta Tournament Hospitality Inc. will serve as THG Sports’ primary hub for marketing and selling hospitality packages during the storied Masters Tournament, which next year is scheduled for April 8-11 at Augusta National Golf Club. The Toronto-based operation will work in conjunction with THG Sports offices in Chicago, Montreal and San Diego to promote THG’s exclusive hospitality offerings.

“Augusta Tournament Hospitality brings a new level of creativity and professionalism around the Masters for our clients,” Stromberg says. “Our focus on this event will allow us to assist clients in linking Masters hospitality with their business goals through packages that serve as incentives for key team members and loyalty-builders for A-list customers and client prospects.”

THG Sports’ Masters hospitality packages provide exclusive access to THG Sports facilities, tournament play and activities that include celebrity appearances and premiere dining and entertainment. THG Sports typically hosts more than 40 corporations during the annual Masters Tournament and expects to advance its C-level participation through the specialized focus Augusta Tournament Hospitality will deliver, Stromberg says.

For more information about Augusta Tournament Hospitality Inc. and annual client testimonials, click here.

As more CEOs are looking globally to grow their businesses in an ever challenging marketplace, they are seeking new avenues to extend their relationships and reach in many countries—a trend that mirrors THG Sports’ experience offering hospitality packages across the globe, says THG Sports CEO Jon Stromberg.

“Our C-level contacts and clients realize that as they expand their global reach in today’s ever-changing market, connecting with customers outside of an office atmosphere whether it be the Masters Golf Tournament or Singapore Grand Prix, to the World Soccer Championships or Americas Cup is a key advantage in allowing each to pinpoint and develop regional relationships around the world,” Stromberg says. “Language and cultural barriers seem to disappear when experiencing a global event of personal interest to customers.”

The assessment fits with findings from IBM’s most recent Global CEO Study, which highlights increased investments in global opportunities and an emphasis on building collaborative relationships with customers and prospects to engender future success. The study details the focus on relationship building is due to a more demanding and sophisticated customer bases across more countries and CEO recognition that quality customer relationships offer a way to differentiate their companies from competitors.

Through its 63 global locations, which span from London and Sydney, to Kuala Lumpur and Chicago, THG Sports is seeing more evidence that affirms the IBM study findings. Companies are seeking THG’s assistance to craft hospitality offerings at a larger number of events in multiple countries to address their global business goals.

“Response and interest in our global THG Sports Open Contract program is stronger than ever,” Stromberg says. A key benefit of the service, he explains, is the ability for companies to tailor the Open Contract to respond to business-and relationship-building needs at both corporate and regional levels.

For example, a global THG Sports client that provides technology-based security solutions used the Open Contract format to provide relationship-building opportunities during the U.S. Open Golf Championships, the Autumn Rugby International’s, and the Malaysian Grand Prix in the past year.

“The company has now expanded its Open Contract and plans to allow each global region to use a portion of the funds to build customer relationships in targeted geographic areas, working in conjunction with THG’s Chicago office,” Stromberg says.

“Our Open Contract program is the perfect complement for C-level executives to meet their global business goals,” he says.

For more about THG Sports’ global event hospitality offerings, click here.

With a first pitch thrown by President Barack Obama and a homerun-robbing catch in the seventh inning, the 2009 All Star Game was a thriller for THG clients who took part in the company’s top-tier hospitality offerings during this year’s midsummer classic in St. Louis, says THG Sports CEO Jon Stromberg.

“The game was a winner on all fronts-exciting play, excellent networking opportunities and a showcase of baseball at its finest.”

THG Sports clients took part in a pre-game, interactive appearance with three-time All Star and former Pittsburgh Pirates and St. Louis Cardinal standout Andy Van Slyke. He quizzed THG Sports attendees on All Star game trivia, offering autographed baseballs for correct answers, and gave an insider’s perspective on what it’s like to play in the All Star Game.

“Andy’s appearance was a perfect precursor for a great night of baseball,” Stromberg says. The American League team beat its National League opponents, 4-3.

THG Sports hospitality offerings-including Van Slyke’s appearance and pre- and post-game networking opportunities-took place at the new Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark (see image), which is adjacent to Busch Stadium in the city’s historic downtown district.

THG Sports has organized hospitality during the All Star Game for the past 17 years, with a majority of their top Fortune 1000 accounts already secured for next years 2010 All Star Game scheduled for July 13 at AT&T Park in Anaheim, Calif.  For more information, click here.

Following glowing results from this summer, THG Sports CEO Jon Stromberg announces the company’s internship program selected for Chicago, San Diego and Montreal offices has proved a success-paving the way for future seasonal paid sports internship programs in the years ahead.

“It’s been a great program,” Stromberg says. “We’re providing real-world experience that offers interns an opportunity to work with our teams and experience what a career in executive sports sales can offer.”

THG Sports‘ Internship Program gives undergraduates and recent graduates seeking a career in executive level sales the opportunity to expand their working experience with C-level management within Fortune 1000 corporations.

“The selected applicants work directly with in-house National Sales Managers where they assist with client profiling and group development needs,” Stromberg says. “We are excited to include these young applicants within our division teams, helping them gain valuable experience.”

The internships run 8 to 10 week periods and give selected candidates an opportunity to work with some of the best in the business. They will experience exceptional leadership and training necessary to become a valuable team member and partner ready to deliver highly personalized sales production to C-level executives.

To learn more about this internship visit THG Sports’ Internship Program page.

Ten years ago Greg Piers walked into THG Sports’ San Francisco office with a resume and a desire to succeed. Over the years he’s been a great asset to the THG Sports sales division rising from a Sales Executive to National Sales Manager. Greg’s career advancement included periods in both the San Francisco and Montreal offices before settling in San Diego. His drive and passion has been an inspiration for all THG Sports team members.

This past week, Piers retired from his position but will continue working as a consultant for THG Sports.

“At THG Sports and Marcus Evans we like to think of our team members as family. While we are sad to see Greg depart on a full time basis we wish him all the best and look forward to working with him as a consultant,” says THG Sports CEO Jon Stromberg.

Many describe Piers as “tenacious” and “dedicated” and often go to him for advice. He has been a valuable team member for the last decade.

“I have been fortunate enough to meet a lot of different people during that time, some who will remain my friends for the rest of my life,” Piers writes.

Colleagues at THG Sports’ San Diego office presented Piers with a framed poem during a retirement party this week:

Celebrate with us and Greg Piers,
As we say cheers together, over a few beers,
It’s a bittersweet occasion, but we won’t shed no tears…
It’s time for Papa Smurf to say goodbye to his peers…

Greg Piers,
Who worked so hard over the years,
And has decided to take the time to switch gears,
He’s heading on outta here but don’t show your fears,
He loves all his friends…even those who hunt deers…

Greg is someone who has hair in his ears,
A true friend of ours we’ll always keep nears,
Loves hockey and golf and doesn’t shop at Sears,
Has plenty of time to trim his hedges with razor sharp shears,
He’s not a quitter, although it appears,
To company policies he always adheres,
But has decided to leave us and spend time with his dears..
He’s joining the land of retired pioneers…

Greg is not to be confused with Britney Spears,
Though the ladies will love him flashing porcelain veneers,
He’ll be eating his bagels covered with smears…
Let’s hope he doesn’t become senile and walk around with bunny ears,
He’s certainly subject to our ridicule and jeers,
Will he be getting man-boobs and needing brassieres?
Or have plenty of time to go get pap smears?
Maybe he’ll become a dirty old man who enjoys giving leers

Though Greg may become older like Santa and need some reindeers,
Don’t mess with him or he’ll kick you in the rears,
Let’s wish him well with these quaint souvenirs,
And we’ll continually hope that he soon reappears,
Until our paths cross again, we’ll miss you Greg Piers!!

Despite rainier than usual conditions, THG Sports clients had an outstanding time participating in THG Sports’ hospitality during last week’s U.S. Open at Bethpage Black golf course, where up-and-comer Lucus Glover captured his first U.S. Open victory.

More than 300 clients and guests per day from 65 corporations took part in THG Sports’ hospitality village during the U.S. Open Championship — the 18th consecutive U.S. Open organized by THG Sports.

“Event hosts and guests appreciated their hospitality pavilions this week immensely due to the on-course conditions,” said THG Sports CEO Jon Stromberg. “Countless clients thanked the event staff for their 5 star service, confirming several success stories with clients, enhancing their business relationships, and enjoying the unparalleled networking opportunities.”

THG’s golf simulator facilities proved to be a favorite, with many clients using them in the THG Sports village to work on their own games after watching their favorite golfers on the course, Stromberg adds. THG Sports clients also enjoyed time meeting and mingling with Golf Channel celebrities Mark Lye, a current Champions Tour player, and Jennifer Mills.

Attendees pose with Mark Lye

“While we can never predict the weather, participants took full advantage of the quality time with their invited guests and enjoyed a tremendous tournament,” Stromberg says. “This year’s success has translated to the strong interest in our hospitality packages during the 2010 U.S. Open Golf at Pebble Beach in Carmel, California.”

For more on THG Sports’ U.S. Open Golf hospitality client offerings, click here

Top producers for THG Sports North America met last weekend to celebrate a successful April sales effort with a getaway trip to Miami’s luxurious Shore Club, says THG Sports CEO Jon Stromberg.

Jon Stromberg in Miami

“The trip is part of our incentive program to reward our team for producing stellar results,” Stromberg says. “Our goal was $1.5 million in sales for April and we had 20 divisional sales executives meet their targets and join us for a weekend of relaxation and fun in Miami. Given our results, the investment has paid for itself many times over.”

THG Sports executives from the company’s Chicago, Montreal and San Diego offices took part in the Miami trip (see group photo).

Stromberg says THG Sports is planning a European trip featuring three days in Amsterdam in September. “Everyone’s focused on making the ‘list’ and joining us for the fall trip,” Stromberg says.

The Miami getaway is part of THG Sports’ internal incentive program that rewards top performers. Past incentive programs have included trips to Las Vegas, Major League Baseball outings and division office dinners.

THG Sports has completed upgrades to three of its primary offices in the past year, says THG Sports North America CEO Jon Stromberg.

“The upgrades follow on our success and mark our efforts to provide a first-class environment for our team to excel,” Stromberg says. “We’re excited about the new facilities and what they’ll mean for our teams in each location.”

The upgrades include the move of THG Sports’ operations in New York to 2 Grand Central Tower; the relocation of Toronto operations to the renowned C.I. Place in the heart of the city’s financial district and the relocation of THG’s Montreal office from KPMG Tower to the landmark, 800 René Lévesque West building, which houses some of Canada’s best-known corporations.

THG Sports’ new home in New York	THG Sports’ new home in Toronto
THG Sports’ new home in Montreal

(May 19, 2009) CHICAGO — Pro Golfer and Golf channel analyst Mark Lye relishes the work he’s done as a celebrity host and participant in THG Sports‘ hospitality offerings at major sports events.

“He’s been an asset to our programs,” says Jon Stromberg, THG Sports CEO of North America. “Our clients and their customers love Mark, which is why he’s back with us year after year.”

“I’ve enjoyed a close working relationship with THG Sports for the past 15 years,” says Lye. “THG Sports takes the experience of playing with champions to a new level.”

Lye has been a celebrity on-site host for THG Sports at more than 20 major golf championships since 1995, including the PGA and U.S. Open championships, the Ryder Cup and the Presidents Cup. Last month, Lye served as THG Sports’ celebrity host during the 2009 Masters Tournament in Augusta, Ga. In addition to serving as celebrity host, Lye assists THG Sports with arranging pro golfers to take part in the company’s Pro-Am golf tournaments held in conjunction with the top-tier events.

“THG Sports Pro-Am’s take the championship experience to a new level. It’s not how many professionals are involved, but who you choose that makes all the difference,” Lye says.

Lye says THG’s on-site preparations and hospitality services make for a one-of-a-kind experience for THG Sports clients and their customers.

“When you’re entertaining clients you want to give them the full effect of being part of a US Open,  Masters Tournament or PGA Championship is all about. THG Sports does that above and beyond,” Lye says. Once THG Sports clients hit the grounds they are taken care of like first class citizens.”

The following videos offer more from Lye on the benefits THG Sports provides its clients at events, including the PGA’s Presidents Cup and the U.S. Open.

For more information about THG Sports’ corporate hospitality services at premier golf championships and other sporting events, visit http://www.thgsports.com or the company blog, http://www.thgworldwideblog.com.

About THG Sports: THG Sports (http://www.thgsports.com) is a leading provider of corporate hospitality programs at premier sporting events in the United States and abroad-including the US Grand Prix, World Cup Soccer, Masters, US Open and the Final Four. As a marcus evans company, all aspects of THG Sports’ services promise a level of client focus and attention second to none.

(May 20, 2009) CHICAGO - The 2009 Monaco Grand Prix is poised to be one of the most challenging and exciting races on this year’s Formula One circuit-and an unmatched opportunity for corporate hospitality, says THG Sports North America CEO Jon Stromberg.

“The Monaco event comes on the heels of a thrilling Spanish Grand Prix,” Stromberg says. “We’re seeing a lot of last minute interest in hospitality opportunities at Monaco-a testimony to the ‘must-see’ nature of the event.”

The Monaco Grand Prix, with practice runs beginning this week prior to Sunday’s race, is one of the jewels on the Formula One circuit, known for dramatic exits and finishes through the picturesque streets of the city. The Brawn-Mercedes team has finished strong in this year’s other Formula One races, with driver Jensen Button winning four so far in 2009.

THG Sports provided hospitality during this year’s past Formula One events in Australia, Malaysia, China, Bahrain and last week in Catalunya, Spain. The offerings included full Executive Club hospitality with four-course meal service and celebrity appearances by Formula One commentator Heiko Wasser and Alex Yoong, former F1 driver and current A1 driver & ESPN announcer.

THG Sports offers similar hospitality offerings at Monaco, including yacht shuttles to and from the racecourse. “We expect the Monaco Grand Prix to once again deliver a lifetime experience to our Formula One fans and clients,” Stromberg says.

In addition to Monaco, THG Sports provides corporate hospitality during upcoming Formula One events including the Turkish Grand Prix, British Grand Prix, German Grand Prix, Hungarian Grand Prix, European Grand Prix, Belgium Grand Prix, Italian Grand Prix, Singapore Grand Prix, Brazilian Grand Prix, and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

For more information about THG Sports’ corporate hospitality services at premier racing and other sporting events, visit http://www.thgsports.com or the company blog, http://www.thgworldwideblog.com.

About THG Sports: THG Sports (http://www.thgsports.com) is a leading provider of corporate hospitality programs at premier sporting events in the United States and abroad-including the US Grand Prix, World Soccer Championships, Masters Tournament, US Open and the Final Four. As a marcus evans company, all aspects of THG Sports’ services promise a level of client focus and attention second to none.