Ben Huggler Named Event Services Manager of Erie Sports Commission

The Erie Sports Commission is pleased to announce the hiring of Ben Huggler as its new event services manager. Huggler’s appointment began July 1.

Originally from Erie, Huggler has more than 15 years of experience in planning and executing large-scale national events. Most recently, he served as the director of events for VertMarkets out of Erie, where he oversaw all logistics for life science and software-focused events, including staffing, budgets, venues and event execution.

Prior to joining VertMarkets, Huggler was the assistant director of global partnerships for Feld Entertainment. There, he was responsible for the development and implementation of sponsorships for the company’s live touring events, including Disney on Ice, Disney Live!, Monster Jam, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus and Monster Energy Supercross.

“It’s an honor to be joining the Erie Sports Commission and sharing all of the amazing resources we have available in Erie,” said Huggler. “I’ve worked a number of years on touring events, and am excited to use that knowledge in welcoming sport and recreation events to my hometown.”

Huggler will take over for the recently-promoted Mark Jeanneret, who has served as the organization’s only Events Director since July 2013.

“Ben (Huggler) has a wealth of knowledge in securing and servicing national touring events, and will be an extremely valuable asset to our team at the Erie Sports Commission,” said Mark Jeanneret, executive director of the Erie Sports Commission. “I am confident that he possesses the skill set and personality to play a major role as we continue to grow the overall impact of our organization throughout Erie County.”

Huggler has a Bachelor of Science degree in Recreation Management and Tourism from Slippery Rock University. He lives in Millcreek with his wife, a teacher at Fairview Middle School, and two daughters.

The Erie Sports Commission is committed to promoting the Erie region as a prime destination for sports and recreation. The major goals of the ESC are to attract, create, support, and host sporting and recreational events that have a positive economic impact on the region, and assist in maximizing the potential of all regional sports facilities and venues. The ESC strives to enhance the image of Erie by showcasing the community, promote wellness through healthy lifestyles, and improve the quality of life for community members of all ages.