Doug Thornton serves as President, Venue Planning Services for Legends Global, working closely with the company’s feasibility consulting, owner’s representation and business development teams to support current and prospective clients with new venue development and renovations. 

Doug previously served as President of North American Venues, overseeing the company’s extensive portfolio of stadiums, arenas, theaters, convention centers, and attractions across North America, a position he held following the Legends Global acquisition of ASM Global, until the transition into his current role in February 2025. 

Thornton joined SMG – predecessor to Legends Global - in 1997 as General Manager of the Louisiana Superdome and New Orleans Arena. In 2002 he led the effort to relocate the Charlotte Hornets NBA team to New Orleans and subsequently led the unprecedented $225 million renovation of the Caesars Superdome in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2006, and recently, the $550 million renovation and upgrade of the stadium completed in 2024 in preparation for Super Bowl LIX.     

Thornton works closely with clients to develop facility development plans and operational strategies. Doug has served as the head of new construction and development projects, providing expert consulting on design, facility improvements, cost-efficiency, and revenue optimization, ensuring that venues meet the highest standards of performance and guest experience.

As an industry veteran, he has contributed to some of the most iconic moments, events, and venue openings in the sports and entertainment business – from Super Bowls and NCAA Final Fours to major artist tours and landmark venue openings and renovations, including U.S. Bank Stadium, Allegiant Stadium, Desert Diamond Arena, Smoothie King Center, and more. 

He has built strong relationships over the years with Sports Leagues, live entertainment producers, event organizers and national governing bodies, as well as top executives in the sports, entertainment and tourism industry.  

Thornton is also actively involved in local New Orleans civic and tourism efforts.  Since 2010, he has served as the Vice Chairman of the New Orleans Aviation Board where he was instrumental in the planning and development of the City’s new $1.1 billion Airport terminal opened November 6, 2019. 

He also serves as a Board member of New Orleans & Company. In 2010, Thornton served as co-chair of the New Orleans Hospitality Coalition that produced a Tourism Master Plan Study used to stimulate and grow the hospitality industry.