The UK's Association of Event Organisers (AEO) has appointed Anna Golden (pictured) as its new chief executive officer, effective January 2025. With over two decades of experience in the events industry, Golden has a distinguished record in driving growth, leading strategic change, and building impactful relationships.
Golden, who has most recently been consulting, brings extensive experience from her previous role as commercial director at Olympia London. During her tenure, she grew the revenue to its highest recorded figure pre-Covid and played a pivotal role in Olympia's £1.3bn redevelopment plan, positioning the venue as a premier cultural hub. She also oversaw the award-winning original rebrand of Olympia London and secured significant contracts with major trade and consumer shows, such as the Ideal Home Show and London Book Fair.
Golden was a founding member of Olympia London’s staff-driven ESG initiative, 'The Grand Plan', and has championed industry-leading practices that reflect her holistic approach to business strategy, customer experience, and organisational culture.
As CEO, Golden will lead the AEO’s mission to support UK event organisers through advocacy, membership growth, and strategic advancement.
Rachel Swann, chief operating officer at dmg events and chair of AEO, commented: "After a thorough selection process, we are excited to welcome Anna as our new CEO. With her extensive industry expertise and excellent reputation, she is the ideal choice. We’re confident she will bring fresh ideas and a strong strategic vision to the AEO, driving continued growth and delivering greater value for our members."
Golden expressed her enthusiasm for the role, stating: “I’ve known the AEO and its community for many years, so the opportunity to lead this important organisation is very exciting. I look forward to reconnecting with familiar faces and collaborating closely with the chair, executive committee, team, and members to drive growth and ensure continued relevance. With a handover period planned for December, I’m eager to hit the ground running in 2025.”
Golden will replace Chris Skeith in the AEO role as he moves at the end of the year to take up the reins as CEO of UFI, the global association of the exhibition industry.
