Margaret Stalvey

Margaret Stalvey, Director of People and Culture at All Elite Wrestling (AEW), understands that the foundation of a thriving sports entertainment organization is built on its people. Her role focuses on creating alignment, trust, and support across a company where performers, business teams, production professionals, and leaders work together in a fast-moving environment. Her approach reflects the unique demands of an industry where culture must keep pace with constant change.

Balancing Two Worlds of Talent

One of the defining challenges in AEW’s People and Culture function is managing the needs of two distinct groups: wrestlers and employees working behind the scenes. Stalvey recognizes that AEW’s talent ecosystem includes performers who appear on television around the world as well as administrative, operational, and production teams who make those experiences possible. The organization must navigate different employment structures, including independent contractors and full-time employees, while ensuring that everyone receives the support they need.

She explains, “Balancing your time and attention to both aspects of the business, the wrestlers and their needs, and what is required for them, is something that has always been really unique to my role and to this business.”

Strengthening Connections across AEW

A key initiative Stalvey values has been the introduction of department check-ins with leadership teams. These conversations moved beyond traditional administrative support and created opportunities to understand departmental goals, identify challenges, and determine where teams needed additional resources or development.

The initiative reinforced the idea that this strategy is not only responsible for processes but also for helping teams grow, develop skills, and navigate change.

Creating Alignment across Diverse Teams

AEW’s culture is shaped by many perspectives, including wrestlers, creative teams, production staff, executives, and business professionals. Stalvey highlights that some of the on-air talent also contribute in business roles, creating a valuable connection between the performance side and operational side of the company.

By understanding different viewpoints, the People and Culture team helps bridge gaps and encourage collaboration. Stalvey believes this alignment is strengthened by leadership’s ability to appreciate both the demands of building a business and the traditions of professional wrestling.

The Future of People and Culture at AEW

Since AEW’s launch in 2019 and under the leadership of AEW CEO Tony Khan, the People and Culture function has evolved from a traditional human resources model into a strategic business partner. Stalvey notes that the department’s name change reflects a broader commitment to prioritizing employees and supporting leaders with meaningful guidance. This also reflects the growing of the AEW brand into one of the worldwide leaders in sports entertainment.

“Balancing your time and attention to both aspects of the business, the wrestlers and their needs, and what is required for them, is something that has always been really unique to my role and to this business.”

Looking ahead, she sees People and Culture continuing to play a vital role as AEW grows. The focus remains on understanding business goals, supporting employees through change, and ensuring that team members have the resources to succeed.

Advice for Future Leaders

For professionals interested in people management or sports entertainment, Stalvey encourages adaptability, strategic thinking, and openness to new experiences. She believes success in this industry requires comfort with a dynamic environment and the willingness to explore unconventional career paths.

Her own journey from the legal field into wrestling demonstrates the value of embracing opportunities beyond familiar territory. She shares, “Putting your name out there and trying a new industry if it’s not something you’ve done before, that’s the only way you’re going to know if it’s the right fit for you.”

Stalvey has been named among the Top 10 Directors of People & Culture 2026, recognizing her leadership in shaping an employee-focused culture at AEW. Her work reflects how modern People and Culture leaders can influence organizational growth by connecting strategy, innovation, and people.

Through a thoughtful approach to partnership and inclusion, Stalvey continues to demonstrate that strong cultures are built through understanding, collaboration, and a commitment to helping every part of an organization succeed. Her leadership approach highlights the importance of empathy, communication, and adaptability, showing how People and Culture professionals can shape workplaces where individuals and teams are prepared successfully.