Mike Killeen, CFO of First Avenue

If you could try a different job for a day, what would you choose? 

At a college career fair, I answered this question by saying my dream job would be to be the CFO of the Minnesota Twins or First Avenue.

What advice would you give someone starting out in their career? 

Most things aren’t permanent.  Say ‘yes’ as often as possible and have an open mind.

What is your mantra? 

More will be revealed; don’t be quick to judge.  Be patient.

How do you get yourself out of a slump? 

A good run or meditation.

What has been the biggest shift you’ve noticed in your industry in the last decade? 

Covid created both temporary and lasting shifts in the live entertainment space that it is hard to imagine what it was like before 2020.  Everything from people’s behavior towards public gatherings, changes towards healthy lifestyles, remote work trends downtown and increased prices have all created both challenges and opportunities for our industry.

Who has been most instrumental in your career? 

My father was in business.  When I got to college, I saw Accounting was the most versatile and would open the most doors – very practical.

What is your go-to celebration meal, drink or tradition?  

A good steak, medium rare.