SMG Europe Announces Double Appointment to UK Arena Portfolio

Big welcome to Ailsa Oliver - new General Manager at the Metro Radio Arena!
 

SMG Europe is pleased to announce the double appointment of Jen Mitchell as General Manager of Leeds’ first direct arena and Ailsa Oliver as General Manager of Newcastle’s Metro Radio Arena.

Jen joins the SMG Europe group following eight years at the helm of Kings Place, London’s arts and entertainment complex comprising of two world-class concert halls, art gallery, restaurant and award-winning conference facilities. Mitchell’s portfolio also includes event management roles within Leicester and Lincolnshire councils, as well as Qatar’s 15th Doha Asian Games.

Having joined SMG Europe in 1995, Ailsa returns to her native Metro Radio Arena after four years as Deputy General Manager of Leeds’ first direct arena. As part of the launch team for the new arena Ailsa was instrumental in establishing the Yorkshire venue as a must-play live music destination. Prior to her role in Leeds, Ailsa was Director of Playhouse Whitley Bay and Newcastle’s Journal Tyne Theatre.

John Sharkey, Executive Vice President of SMG Europe, said: “I’m delighted to announce both appointments as SMG Europe continues to grow its stronghold in the north of the country.”

Jen will commence her new position in May, replacing the outgoing Ben Williams, and Ailsa begins her new role with immediate effect, replacing Paul Tappenden who retired last year.

SMG Europe is the largest operator of sports, entertainment, conference and exhibition venues in the UK and Europe. SMG Europe is a wholly owned subsidiary of SMG, the worldwide leader in venue management.