Speaker Bio
Francine Melendez Hughes is in her first season as executive vice president & general manager of Levi’s Stadium. In her role, she is responsible for all aspects of stadium operations at the world-class venue located in Santa Clara, CA. This includes oversight of stadium operations, project management, engineering, grounds, guest services, janitorial, parking, security, transportation, and more. She is the stadium’s main point of contact on all event days.
Prior to joining the 49ers, Hughes served as vice president of real estate and facilities management for Curative, an innovative healthcare services company. There she was responsible for evaluating real estate strategy and securing real estate in response to the organization’s rapid growth, among other operations. She played a crucial role in the acquisition of a prime real estate asset and orchestrated its transformation from traditional office space into a health and wellness facility. Hughes’ tenure at Curative resulted in the company optimizing operations and achieving significant efficiencies and cost savings.
Hughes also spent time with McCourt LLC (2013-2021) and the Los Angeles Dodgers (2009-2013) overseeing operations. At the Dodgers, she managed the 330-acre Dodger Stadium, gameday employees and multiple third-party services supporting event operations. Hughes was instrumental in spearheading sustainability initiatives spanning energy, water, and recycling. Additionally, she was responsible for overseeing the operational aspects of the team’s spring training facility and Dominican academy. Under her leadership, she successfully orchestrated the repositioning of the academy, implementing significant upgrades and enhancements. During her tenure with McCourt she supported event operations for the LA Marathon, and was charged with management of a world class equestrian operation. Alongside managing the equestrian operation, she routinely conducted risk assessments to ensure the highest operational and safety standards.
Hughes chose to join the 49ers and Levi’s Stadium due to her longstanding passion for sports. She loves the thrill of live entertainment and camaraderie that comes with working in sports. Outside of work, Hughes enjoys supporting her local community by organizing events and volunteering.
Hughes holds a B.S. in Management from the Graziadio business school at Pepperdine University. Originally from New York City, she splits her time between the Bay Area and Southern California where she resides with her mother, husband, son, daughter and grandson.