Paul Rivers

Q: What most notably stands out about your leadership style or what is an example of leadership success you can share with our readers?

My leadership style starts with genuine care — care for the mission, care for the work and, most importantly, care for the people who make it all happen. When that foundation is real, everything else becomes possible. From there, leadership at Player 15 Group is a shared commitment built on the same behaviors: bringing urgency to every opportunity, holding ourselves accountable before anyone else, and showing up with positive energy that elevates the people around us. When we model those traits consistently, we create a culture where everyone feels supported, challenged and inspired to be their best. And ultimately, it comes down to execution — turning standards into actions and goals into results. Together, we set the tone, we live the standard, and we deliver at a high level every day.

Q: What impact have any disruptions of the past 18 months had on you as a leader?

Disruption has reshaped the way we work and lead. What once felt like obstacles now serve as reminders that every day brings a new opportunity to learn, adapt and raise the standard. Disruption clarifies what truly matters: our purpose, our people, and the consistency with which we show up for both. It reinforces that leadership isn’t about controlling circumstances; it’s about meeting them with care, urgency, accountability and the kind of positive, steady energy that brings others forward with you. At Player 15 Group, we view every challenge — today’s and tomorrow’s — not as setbacks, but as catalysts to build something stronger than what existed before.

Each moment of uncertainty becomes fuel for a sharper mindset, a more resilient culture and a more confident future. In the end, disruption does not define us. Our response — how we stay focused, how we execute and how we keep moving forward — always will. That is where real leadership lives, and that is how strong organizations are built and thrive.

Q: What do you feel we can be doing as a business community to empower economic growth here?

The business community in Phoenix has a unique opportunity — and responsibility — to help shape the next era of economic growth in what I believe is the best market in the country. Our strength isn’t defined by any single industry or skyline; it’s defined by our people and their ambition. Empowering growth starts with continuing to work together; championing collaboration over competition; and showcasing the incredible talent, innovation and quality of life that make this region so special.

Live entertainment plays a major role in this trajectory — its lifestyle impact, cultural influence and ability to draw people together make it a powerful catalyst for economic momentum. When we highlight the best parts of Phoenix — its energy, its creativity, its world-class entertainment and its entrepreneurial spirit — we attract more investment, more talent and more opportunity. The future here is bright, and by standing together as a unified business community, we can help unlock the full potential of this market for years to come.

Q: What is new and notable for your company’s near future that will impact our economy?

The Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury, under the leadership of owner Mat Ishbia, are committed to continuing to invest in the Phoenix community. We have invested in facilities — like our new business headquarters and Phoenix Mercury practice facility — as well as community initiatives and bringing major events to downtown.

Next year, Mortgage Matchup Center will host the 2026 NCAA Women’s Final Four and U.S. Gymnastics Championships, two world-class events that will bring in sports fans from around the world. These efforts are contributing to the broader economic vitality of the region and complementing Phoenix’s rapid growth, strengthening its position as one of the fastest-growing metros in the country.

We also continue to invest in our fan experience to ensure the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury are offering an experience unlike any other city. A great example of this is The Ra Ra Room, the first-ever members-only dining club in a sports and entertainment venue. This partnership with the renowned Mario Carbone and Major Food Group helps attract visitors and elevate Phoenix as a premier destination.