The Quarterly Business Forum Was Held at the PXG Showroom Just a Short Drive from The Greatest Show on Grass
Scottsdale Community Bank just wrapped up another successful installment of The Vault, its exclusive business leadership forum, featuring Matt Mooney, Big Chief of the Phoenix Thunderbirds, which operates the world-renowned WM Phoenix Open golf tournament, during a private event held Jan. 22 at the upscale PXG Scottsdale showroom.
The Vault is an invitation-only program created exclusively for Scottsdale Community Bank clients, shareholders and directors. Convening quarterly, the forum brings together accomplished leaders to share real-world insights, operational lessons and the stories behind some of the Valley’s most influential organizations.
During the discussion, Mooney offered a candid look at the leadership, discipline and stewardship required to operate one of the largest and most complex sporting events in the world. He also shared what attendees and fans can expect new this year at the WM Phoenix Open, including enhancements to iconic venues, improved fan flow, expanded family-focused areas and continued investment in premium hospitality at the 16th hole.
The WM Phoenix Open generated $18 million for charity last year, reinforcing what Mooney described as a virtuous cycle—where a world-class fan experience fuels community investment, and that investment, in turn, strengthens the event’s long-term success.
Mooney shared his personal path to Phoenix, recalling how he and his wife arrived to the Valley nearly 20
years ago, and on that day, he was given two general admission tickets to attend the next day’s session of the WM Phoenix Open. With the McDowell Mountains as a backdrop, he described it as a memorable first day—one that would eventually lead him to join the Phoenix Thunderbirds a decade later and rise into leadership roles culminating in his current position as Big Chief.
Originally from Florida and raised in Mississippi, Mooney played collegiate golf at Mississippi State, where he red-shirted a year and competed alongside top-tier athletes, experiences he credits with shaping his discipline and resilience. After getting married and beginning his career with the Parkway real estate investment firm, headquartered in Jackson, he ultimately relocated to Arizona, drawn by the region’s opportunity, lifestyle and strong sense of community.
Throughout the forum, Mooney, who is now CEO of Parkway, emphasized that trust and integrity are foundational to leadership at scale. “Leadership comes down to doing what you say you’re going to do and treating people the way you want to be treated,” Mooney said. “When you put others first—not for personal gain—you build something that lasts.”
Mooney detailed the immense operational scope of the WM Phoenix Open, which requires year-round planning with Scottsdale Police, Fire and city partners and a structural build that begins each September with more than one million square feet of temporary venues, and the coordination of hundreds of thousands of attendees. Despite growing demand that now exceeds capacity, Mooney stressed the importance of being “better, not bigger,” approving growth only when it enhances the player, fan and community experience.
He also addressed moments of challenge, including one of the rainiest tournament years on record in 2024, noting that leadership requires thoughtful adjustment rather than overcorrection. Planning for improvement, he said, begins the day after the tournament concludes.
Under Mooney’s leadership, the tournament has continued to invest in its most iconic elements, including a major reinvestment in the legendary 16th hole, now expanded to four levels. He reflected on historic moments—such as Tiger Woods’ hole-in-one—and noted that Hole 16 has evolved into a business model built on delivering an unforgettable experience.
The conversation also highlighted the Phoenix Thunderbirds’ legacy, founded in 1937, and their ongoing role in stewarding funds back into the community through Thunderbird Charities. Mooney described reviewing grant applications as one of the most humbling responsibilities of his role.
Looking ahead, Mooney shared updates for this year’s tournament, including enhancements to the 16 Hole, new family-friendly areas, a reimagined entrance near the 18th Hole, new player bridges between holes five, six and seven, and premium hospitality spaces such as the newly introduced Penthouse Club. He also addressed water stewardship and sustainability, emphasizing responsible golf course water use and ongoing education.
The tournament’s momentum remains strong, with a 99% sponsor renewal rate, peak attendance on Thursdays and Fridays and continued investment from the PGA Tour. Mooney described the WM Phoenix Open as a true Phoenix–Scottsdale success story—driven by economic development, leadership continuity and a shared commitment to community.
The event concluded with a Q&A, allowing attendees to engage directly with Mooney and apply lessons from one of the world’s most complex sporting events to their own businesses