Early Life and Education
Arturo Moreno was born in Tucson, Arizona, as the oldest of 11 children to Mexican immigrant parents. His father ran a print shop, and his grandfather owned Tucson's first Spanish-language newspaper. Moreno graduated from high school in 1965 and was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1966, serving in the Vietnam War. After returning from the war, he earned a marketing degree from the University of Arizona in 1973.
Rise to Success
Moreno's career began in the advertising industry. He joined Eller Outdoor and later moved to Outdoor Systems, where he became president and CEO. Under his leadership, Outdoor Systems expanded significantly, becoming a major billboard advertising firm. In 1996, he took the company public, and in 1998, he sold it to Infinity Broadcasting for $8 billion, which launched him into the billionaire ranks.
Key Business Strategies
Moreno's business acumen is evident in his strategic decisions. He acquired the Anaheim Angels (now Los Angeles Angels) in 2003 for $180 million, becoming the first Mexican-American to own a major U.S. sports team. He has focused on improving the team's marketing, fan experience, and community engagement. In 2006, he secured a lucrative broadcasting deal with Fox Sports.
Philanthropy
Moreno and his wife Carole established the Moreno Family Foundation in 1997, which supports non-profit organizations focused on youth and education. The foundation contributes to scholarships, veterans' initiatives, and local charities in Arizona and California, reflecting Moreno's commitment to community service.