NEC role for former boss of town BID
THE former chairman of Solihull’s business investment district (BID) is joining the NEC Group as revenue development director in January.
Andrew Cole’s role will bring additional expertise to the NEC to bring new opportunities to the venue’s customers, partners and visitors.
The role will also have links to the International Convention Centre in Birmingham and the wider NEC Group.
Mr Cole has built a 20-year career in various roles across retail and hospitality sectors including Ramada Hotel Solihull, Arnos Manor Hotel, Bristol and Touchwood shopping centre.
He said: “My roles in Solihull have given me good local knowledge of the NEC and, having visited many events in both a personal and professional capacity over the years.
“I believe I’ll be able to identify opportunities at the NEC with the teams quickly and help to further enhance the customer journey and commercial offering.”
He added: “I’m not ‘leaving’ Solihull town centre at all as I will still be working locally. As a local resident, Solihull will still be my main shopping destination, so I have a vested interest in its vibrancy.
“Since the inception of the BID, the town centre has become safer, more prosperous and a much more enjoyable place to be. I’m proud to have been a part of this for the last nine years.”
Mr Cole said key stakeholders must look at continued improvement within Solihull town centre.
He added: “The town centre needs to be constantly innovating, looking for ways to grow and develop, attracting new businesses, staff and customers for new and exciting experiences – something the BID is perfectly placed to do.”