First Direct Arena old hand in key role

Article posted by Coliseum, June 20^th, 2022

Image: ASM Global

International venue management giant ASM Global has appointed Martin McInulty as General Manager of the First Direct Arena in Leeds, England (UK).

The ‘Access All Areas’ stated that McInulty has worked at the arena for five years, where he has held the position of Head of Operations. With 20 years’ experience working in the events and entertainment industry, his career has included roles at the Leeds Town Hall, The Carriageworks Theatre in Leeds and the Harrogate Convention Centre (UK).

Los Angeles (US)-based ASM Global is the world’s leading venue management company and producer of live event experiences and is the pre-eminent management and content partner with over 350 venues worldwide.

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The 13,781-capacity First Direct Arena is an entertainment-focused arena located in the Arena Quarter of Leeds, West Yorkshire, England (UK). It is the first in the United Kingdom to have a fan-shaped orientation. The arena officially opened on September 4^th, 2013, with Sir Elton John (English singer, pianist and composer) playing to an audience of 12,000.

Informed ASM Global Senior Vice-President Europe Operations, Marie Lindqvist, “Martin joined the team in Leeds in 2017 and has been instrumental in developing the arena to become hugely popular among fans, bands and promoters. With our strong team in Leeds, Martin’s long and broad experience and his passion for the arena and the community, I am truly excited about the future of the First Direct Arena.”

Added McInulty, “I have lived and worked in Leeds for over 20 years and I have a real passion for the City. I started my events career at the Leeds Town Hall in 2000. In this time, I have worked at some of the region’s most iconic venues. I have always felt privileged to work at the First Direct Arena and I am genuinely thrilled to be taking on the new role as General Manager. We have a great team in Leeds who are dedicated to enhancing the arena’s reputation as a must-play venue. This year promises to be one of our busiest and I look forward to bringing some of the world’s biggest musical artistes to Leeds in the future.”

McInulty commenced his new role this month and looks ahead to a busy year, with live music events from artistes such as the American entertainer Diana Ross, English indie rock band Kaiser Chiefs and the British singer-songwriter Rod Stewart.

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