Robert Fitzpatrick take over reins of EAA

Article posted by Coliseum, October 17^th, 2025

Image: European Arena Association

The European Arenas Association (EAA) has announced the appointment of Robert Fitzpatrick as its new President succeeding Olivier Toth who steps down after successfully completing a six-year mandate.

‘EUROPEAN ARENAS ASSOCIATION’ stated that Olivier Toth will remain actively involved with the association continuing to serve on the Board as the representative for the Central European region.

Rotterdam (Netherlands)-based the European Arenas Association (EEA) is a group of indoor arenas located in Europe with a range of event hosting experiences including concerts, entertainment productions and sporting and corporate events. As of 2025, it is made up of 41 member arenas and arena clusters from 20 countries.

EEA Nuggets:

The EAA represents 43 arenas in 20 European countries that operate some of the world’s leading venues hosting unrivaled programs with the outstanding artistes, productions, sports, and corporate events. The association’s member arenas host over 3,500 annual events attracting a total audience of 26.9 million people;
The association’s aligned vision aims to establish itself as the leading authority on the arenas in Europe for the members and the wider industry. The EAA aims to be a beacon of best practice and knowledge-sharing in all areas of business, especially in the support of cultural and environmental well-being; and
Over the last few years, the EAA has strengthened relationships with the European Union (EU) governing bodies to ensure the inclusion of arenas as part of the policymaking decisions. The EAA is involved in self-funded activities and projects in three key areas: Sports, education and training and research.

Brussels (Belgium)-based the European Union (EU) is a supranational political and economic union of 27 member states that are located primarily in Europe.

‘EUROPEAN ARENAS ASSOCIATION’ further stated that Fitzpatrick recently stepped down as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Odyssey Trust Company (charitable organization) in Belfast (UK) after 18 years to take up a new role as the Chair of the Belfast Giants Ice Hockey Club. Fitzpatrick has been closely involved with the association since 2010 co-founding the Arena Resilience Alliance (a special initiative created by the EAA to develop a framework for the safe return of live events in Europe following the pandemic) with Olivier Toth during the pandemic and serving most recently as the Chair of the EAA Education Steering Group.

The EAA Education Steering Group refers to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) 2030 Education Steering Committee where the Education Above All (EAA) Foundation is a member. This committee is an influential, international body that works to achieve the educational Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It focuses on bringing together foundations and organizations to promote quality education for all, especially those who are marginalized.

Reflecting on the handover the outgoing President Olivier Toth said, “I can think of no better person to lead the association. Over the years, Robert has worked tirelessly on behalf of the members to deliver a wide range of objectives and I look forward to continuing to support the association under Robert’s leadership in my new capacity.”

Speaking on his appointment, the new President, Robert Fitzpatrick, remarked, “I am honored to step into this role. Under Olivier’s Presidency the association has increased membership, strengthened ties with the European Union and launched a new education platform for the venue professionals. Together, with the Board and our members, I look forward to building on the strong foundation laid by Olivier and shaping the next chapter of the association.”

Added Victoria Matthews, EAA Executive Director, “We are deeply grateful to Olivier Toth and the Board for their dedication and vision. We warmly welcome Robert Fitzpatrick and the new Board members and we look forward to an exciting era for the association.”

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