The Birmingham-based NEC Group has appointed Sir Nick Varney as its non-executive chair. He brings more than 30 years of experience working in the tourism and leisure industry, and led Merlin Entertainments as CEO from its inception in 1999 to November 2022. The appointment took effect from 1 September 2024.
Sir Nick has also previously served as chair of UKHospitality, the trade body representing the UK’s hospitality and tourism industry. He also serves as a senior advisor to Blackstone Private Equity.
Melanie Smith CBE, NEC Group CEO said: “We are delighted to welcome Nick as chair at such an exciting time for our business. We have ambitious plans to transform our site into the UK’s entertainment and leisure capital, offering an ever-evolving set of experiences for everyone to explore and enjoy. Nick’s deep expertise in the leisure sector will be invaluable as we execute our plans.”
Sir Nick Varney added: “I am delighted to be joining the Board of the NEC Group and look forward to working closely with Mel and the executive team. This is a great business with a unique offering and world-class venues. I look forward to supporting the team in delivering on its significant potential.”
Work is also progressing with Birmingham and Solihull councils on an urban masterplan for the NEC site, which is set to include 14,000sqm of outdoor event space. The Masterplan will seek to build on opportunities delivered through the HS2 project and Highways England investment in local road infrastructure.
In the year to 31 March 2024, the NEC welcomed more than 3.7m visitors across its conference, exhibition and arena complex.
