Former Tottenham Hotspur Stadium director appointed Olympia London chief executive

Venue management company ASM Global has appointed former Tottenham Hotspur Stadium venue director Andy O’Sullivan as the new chief executive of Olympia London.

O’Sullivan served in his previous role from October 2012 up until last month, overseeing the delivery of the venue’s guest experience and leading the business change from White Hart Lane to Tottenham’s current state-of-the-art ground. He is said to have been instrumental in the design, development, mobilisation, and commercialisation of the £1bn ($1.2bn/€1.1bn) stadium.

Exhibition centre Olympia London opened in 1886 and draws more than 1.6 million visitors to its 200 events each year.

ASM Global oversees management of the venue and, with O’Sullivan, is aiming to expand its influence in Europe to compete in international markets.

“I’m incredibly excited to be joining such a transformational project at such a critical time, one that’s taking shape right here in London,” said O’Sullivan, who starts his new role on January 11.

“It will be an incredible new landmark destination for the city, that will help to reshape the way we see and interact with conferencing, exhibitions, and the creative arts industry.

“I’m pleased to be joining the Olympia London and ASM Global family to develop what will be a showcase for the world. I have a real passion for creative disciplines, and it’s not often one gets to be involved with art, dance, theatre, and music at the same destination. It will be groundbreaking, something I know I’m really going to enjoy.

“Not to forget the amazing heritage Expo Halls that the wider estate will be built around – imagine a day or weekend in London where you get to create, learn, work, dine, stay and play – a real chance to celebrate heritage, whilst embracing big change, it will be truly breathtaking.”

O’Sullivan has also been vice-president for IMG’s European stadium and arena business in the past as well working on the opening of Wembley Stadium.

“We are delighted to have Andy join our team, particularly at this pivotal moment for Olympia London as it takes great strides towards an incredibly exciting future,” said ASM Global Europe president Chris Bray.

“Andy comes armed with exceptional experience, knowledge of the industry and proven track record for commercial success. He also shares our ambition for the future and growth of Olympia London so I have no doubt that he will bring tremendous value and vision to the venue.”