Changes to Arena Management Team

Phil moves from a Managing Director role to focus on governance and strategic direction – including heading up all projects relating to the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham when the Group will be hosting a total of nine sports across three flagship venues.

Phil will be working closely with CEO Paul Thandi on merger and acquisition opportunities – an increased focus, following the appointment of Blackstone as the Group’s majority shareholder.

He also remains on the board for The Ticket Factory – the Group’s award-winning in-house ticketing company, and continues to advise on projects nurtured by consultancy arm, NEC Group Venue Partnerships including the transformation of the iconic former Odeon theatre in Bradford.

In a second internal promotion, Guy Dunstan moves from General Manager, Arenas to take up the position of Director of Arenas.  A former Chair of the UK’s National Arenas Association, Guy has spent the last 18 years with NEC Group delivering a range of high-profile major events such as BBC Sports Personality of the Year, Horse of the Year Show and the redevelopments of the Resorts World Arena and Arena Birmingham.

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.”

Phil Mead, incoming Arenas and The Ticket Factory Chairman, added: “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.”

Guy Dunstan, incoming Director of Arenas, said: “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.”  

Both roles have taken effect immediately.