Co-op Live has strengthened its senior leadership team with the appointment of Shane Mates as venue director.
In addition, the Manchester venue has hired Russel Sang as finance director.
“These appointments mark a significant step as Co-op Live continues to build a best-in-class team across its ongoing operations, reinforcing its ambition to be a leading destination for live entertainment in the UK and beyond,” said a statement.
Shane Mates has more than 25 years of international experience across the sport and entertainment sectors. He has held senior leadership roles across Australia, the UK and Ireland, including director of venues at Melbourne & Olympic Parks, where he oversaw the commercial and operational management of multiple world-class venues, including Rod Laver Arena and AAMI Park.
More recently, Mates served as head of operations at Aiken Promotions, delivering major stadium events across Ireland, before taking on a general manager role with Gather & Gather at the RDS in Dublin.
In his new role as venue director, Mates will oversee all operational aspects of Co-op Live, including venue management, production and fan experience.
The opportunity to help shape the operational delivery of what is already one of the most ambitious live entertainment venues in the world is hugely compelling
Shane Mates
Russel Sang has joined Co-op Live with more than two decades of experience in senior finance roles, including over 21 years at Birmingham’s NEC Group, where he served as group finance director and chief financial officer.
At Co-op Live, Sang will lead the financial strategy for the venue, supporting its long-term growth and commercial performance.
Russel Sang, finance director, Co-op Live, said: “I’m delighted to join Co-op Live and to support the next phase of its growth. It’s a remarkable venue with a clear vision and significant potential, and I look forward to contributing to its long-term success. My focus will be on building a strong financial platform that enables innovation, operational excellence and sustainable commercial performance.”
Shane Mates, venue director, Co-op Live, said: “I’m incredibly excited to be joining Co-op Live at such a pivotal moment. The opportunity to help shape the operational delivery of what is already one of the most ambitious live entertainment venues in the world is hugely compelling. Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about creating exceptional event experiences for fans, artists and partners alike, and I look forward to working with the team to establish Co-op Live as a benchmark for venue excellence in the UK and internationally.”
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