Jilian Grooms
Jilian Grooms is a seasoned Sports and Hospitality Sales Professional with extensive experience in customer relationship management, venue operations, and event planning. She currently serves as Membership Director for Oak View Group at Vanderbilt University, where she leads the launch of a new social club that blends stadium life with a country club experience. Her role involves membership sales, hosting events, and supporting game-day operations, reflecting her commitment to delivering exceptional client experiences and fostering community engagement.
Throughout her career, Jilian has held key positions with leading organizations, including Topgolf, Nashville Predators, and Nashville Sounds Baseball Club. She has leveraged tools such as LinkedIn, Microsoft Office Suite, and Salesforce to drive sales strategies and operational efficiency. Her collaborative approach and dedication to excellence have consistently supported organizational goals, while mentoring and motivating teams to achieve peak performance.
A graduate of Murray State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Advertising, Jilian also studied abroad at King’s College London in Journalism and Mass Communications. As a former NCAA Division I Women’s Golf team member, she has carried the discipline and perseverance from her athletic background into her professional life. Passionate about empowering women in sports and hospitality, she actively encourages young professionals to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields, combining her love for golf and community building with her professional expertise.
• Murray State University - B.A.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the lessons I learned from my parents. Both of them worked full-time and traveled extensively—my dad in sales and my mom in customer service. Watching their dedication and drive instilled in me a strong work ethic and a sense of perseverance. Those values shaped how I approach my career and life.
Ultimately, my greatest motivation now comes from my children. I want to provide them with a secure, fulfilling life and show them the importance of independence and self-reliance. Even when circumstances are challenging, I strive to model resilience and determination so they can see the value of paving their own path.
For example, when my role at Topgolf was eliminated while I was six months pregnant, I didn’t let that setback define me. I began exploring new opportunities, not only to meet immediate needs but also to demonstrate to my daughters that challenges are opportunities to grow. My goal is to instill in them the same drive and dedication that my parents instilled in me—so they can build their own success while valuing collaboration and shared responsibility.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the sports and hospitality industry is simple: don’t let the fact that it’s often considered a “man’s world” hold you back. I grew up dreaming of becoming a general manager for the Reds, and that passion drove me to work hard and pursue every opportunity. Being an athlete taught me discipline and resilience, and I carried those qualities into my career.
No matter the industry, it’s important not to let stereotypes or intimidation stop you. Focus on your skills, your dedication, and your vision, and let those guide you. Confidence, persistence, and passion will take you further than you might expect.
Locations
FirstBank Stadium
2600 Jess Neely Drive, Nashville, TN, 37212