Legends Global Fired Raising Cane's River Center Manager
The firm terminated general manager Wayne Hodes amid a major redevelopment of the Baton Rouge facility.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Legends Global terminated Wayne Hodes in August 2026, ending his tenure as general manager of the Raising Cane's River Center. Visit Baton Rouge has stepped in as the interim operator while the facility undergoes a significant redevelopment process.
Why it matters
The change in leadership follows internal discontent regarding the maintenance of kitchen and mechanical areas at the site. The facility is currently being revamped to improve its ability to host conventions and meetings.
The redevelopment project for the Raising Cane's River Center includes plans for a 350-room headquarters hotel. The facility is being updated as part of broader local efforts to boost convention space in Baton Rouge.
The players
Wayne Hodes
He served as the general manager of the Raising Cane's River Center and maintains regional oversight in Lake Charles, Alexandria, and Bossier City.
Legends Global
This premium experiences company manages sports and entertainment facilities and currently handles operations for various regional venues.
Visit Baton Rouge
This organization acts as the official destination marketing organization for the Baton Rouge area and is currently serving as the interim manager for the River Center.
Oak View Group
Headquartered in Denver, this global advisory, development, and investment company focuses on the sports and live entertainment industries.
The details
The facility is currently soliciting proposals for a new management operator to take over by early next year. Legends Global and the Denver-based Oak View Group have both expressed interest in securing the contract for the center.
Timeline
Wayne Hodes served as general manager starting in 2021.
Legends Global terminated Wayne Hodes between August and September 2026.
The request for proposals for center management closes October 5, 2026.
A new operator will begin their contract in January 2027.
Market Landscape
This transition aligns with the broader push to modernize Baton Rouge's venue landscape to remain competitive for large-scale events. The replacement of legacy management reflects an industry-wide trend toward consolidation as companies like Legends and Oak View Group vie for major city contracts.
Local residents and visitors can expect shifts in venue services as the city transitions to a new management operator by early 2027. These changes are intended to support the upcoming expansion of the center and the addition of a new hotel to the downtown area.
The takeaway
Effective venue management remains a critical pillar for cities aiming to capture high-value convention business. Residents should monitor the upcoming contract decision to see how the next operator balances facility maintenance with the demands of the new hotel expansion.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest venue developments in Baton Rouge.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Advocate.
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