NEC Group has announced the promotions of Phil Mead to chairman of arenas and The Ticket Factory, and Guy Dunstan to director of arenas.
Mead moves from an MD role to focus on governance and strategic direction, heading up all projects relating to the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and working closely with CEO Paul Thandi on merger and acquisition opportunities following the appointment of Blackstone as the Group’s majority shareholder.
Mead also remains on the board for The Ticket Factory – the group’s in-house ticketing company, and continues to advise on projects nurtured by consultancy arm, NEC Group Venue Partnerships.
In a second internal promotion, former National Arenas Association chair Dunstan is upped from general manager, arenas to the role of director of arenas.
NEC Group chief executive, Paul Thandi said: “I am pleased to confirm these two appointments. From playing an integral role in bringing the 2022 Commonwealth Games to Birmingham, to being instrumental in growing our consultancy arm and transforming our Birmingham-based box office into a national ticketing brand, Phil has made a significant contribution to growing our business. Meanwhile, as general manager, Guy has consistently provided great leadership and direction to drive high performance across both arenas and hugely deserves his promotion.”
Mead said: “This new role is a perfect fit for me. On a strategic development front, the current landscape presents so many opportunities – both around growing our own venues and exploring options on a partnership and consultancy basis. Leading on all aspects of our involvement on the Commonwealth Games is a great privilege. As well as ensuring a sense of pace and strong commercial focus, I’m looking forward to driving community engagement and ensuring a real attention to detail on customer service – from food and drink, to what makes a great Games for athletes, fans and coaches.”
Dunstan added: “I am proud and excited to be taking on this role and to lead the outstanding team and facilities we have in both arenas. It could hardly be a busier or more exciting time to take up this new post with the recent rebranding of our Genting Arena to Resorts World Arena and a really strong programme of concerts and events over the forthcoming period including Hugh Jackman, Take That and the return of ESL DOTA 2.”
