Sign In

Christian Lau

Technology Leader - start-up, Fortune 500, pro sports and live events/concert experience, multinational ops background

Christian Lau is the Chief Technology Officer of Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC), a Major League Soccer team based in Los Angeles, California. In his role, Lau is responsible for defining the technical vision of the organization, developing strategies for technology implementation, and managing the execution of technology across the enterprise. LAFC is known for its commitment to building a world-class soccer club that represents the diversity of Los Angeles and delivers an unrivaled experience for fans.2

Lau's primary focus is on leveraging technology to enhance the guest experience, eliminate friction, and provide additive experiences for customers. His strategic approach has positioned LAFC as one of the most innovative and tech-forward sports organizations and venues in the United States. Under his leadership, the club has attracted tech partnerships that have allowed the stadium to test and implement cutting-edge technologies, including biometrics for age verification, NFC ticketing, and autonomous retail technology.1

Prior to joining LAFC in May 2017, Lau had an extensive career in technology leadership. He served as Vice President of Information Technology at Franchise Services, Inc. for 13 years, where he managed a global IT operation and played a key role in developing solutions for various brands in the print and marketing services industry. His responsibilities included overseeing technical support, data facilities, procurement, application development, and marketing systems.2

At BMO Stadium (formerly Banc of California Stadium), Lau and his team have become known for their willingness to experiment with new technologies. Some successful implementations include NFC ticketing, which accounts for 70-80% of ticket scans at LAFC games, and Apple Pay, which is used for about 77% of venue transactions. However, Lau is not afraid to acknowledge when certain technologies don't resonate with fans, such as mobile concession ordering and NFTs, which were less successful.3

Lau emphasizes that while technology is important, it only accounts for about 10% of the equation in improving the fan experience. He focuses heavily on operational flow and processes to ensure smooth functioning of the stadium's services.3

Christian Lau's innovative approach to stadium technology and fan experience continues to drive LAFC's reputation as a leader in the sports industry.

Highlights

Christian Lau - SXSW 2025 Schedule
Christian Lau - SXSW 2025 Schedule
LAFC's Christian Lau talks about 'the fan experience of the future'
Jun 1 · alsd.com
Christian Lau | ALSD
Christian Lau | ALSD
Interview with Christian Lau, CTO, LAFC and BMO Stadium
Feb 6 · youtube.com
Interview with Christian Lau, CTO, LAFC and BMO Stadium - YouTube
Interview with Christian Lau, CTO, LAFC and BMO Stadium - YouTube

Related Questions

What are some of the first-of-its-kind technologies Christian Lau has implemented at LAFC?
How has Christian Lau's background in AI influenced his approach at LAFC?
Christian Lau
Christian Lau, photo 1
Christian Lau, photo 2
Add to my network

Location

Los Angeles, California, United States