NEC Group Strengthens Leadership Team with New CDO Appointment
26 June 2025The NEC Group, the UK’s leading live events business, has appointed Sarah Harvey as Chief Development Officer.
Joining the Group’s leadership team, Sarah will focus on driving growth beyond the NEC’s current core offer. She will lead the development of the NEC Campus, property portfolio, new experiential content, marketing, and the Group’s event organiser arm, Pendigo.
Sarah brings over 20 years’ experience in delivering significant growth for companies. With a background in fast growth start ups and larger businesses, her previous roles include senior positions at Square, Tough Mudder, and Diageo. Most recently, she has worked as an independent consultant, developing and executing growth strategies for a portfolio of clients.
NEC Group CEO, Melanie Smith CBE, said: “It’s a pleasure to welcome Sarah to the team. Her breadth of experience is a valuable addition to our leadership group, and her appointment presents an exciting opportunity to accelerate our ambitions beyond our core venues.”
Sarah Harvey, Chief Development Officer, added: “As the NEC approaches its 50th anniversary, I’m excited to shape the next chapter of the Group’s journey, while continuing to champion our core purpose – delivering world-class live events.
“There’s huge potential here, and I’m looking forward to developing and executing a bold strategy for future growth.”