Guy Dunstan has been announced as the new General Manager and Senior Vice President of Co-op Live.
- Dunstan replaces Rebecca Kane Burton, who served as interim GM following Gary Roden’s resignation.
- Dunstan brings over 25 years of industry experience, including leadership roles at the NEC Group.
- Co-op Live has lined up 40 more shows for 2024, enhancing Manchester’s cultural scene.
- Jess Koravos praises Dunstan’s leadership as an asset to Co-op Live’s sustainability goals.
Guy Dunstan will step into the role of General Manager and Senior Vice President at Co-op Live, the UK’s largest indoor arena, beginning on 21 October 2024. His appointment follows the interim management by Rebecca Kane Burton since April 2024. Gary Roden, the former General Manager, resigned earlier this year amid controversies surrounding the delayed opening of the venue and critical remarks about smaller venues which he described as ‘poorly run’.
Rebecca Kane Burton will transition to a role as Executive Vice President of Venue Management for OVG International, where she will spearhead the company’s international business development in facilities, sports, entertainment, and hospitality. This shift marks a significant move for Burton, who has been instrumental during her interim tenure at Co-op Live.
Dunstan joins Co-op Live from his position as Managing Director at the NEC Group, where he oversaw the Resorts World Arena and Utilita Arena in Birmingham. With over 25 years of experience in the industry and previous roles including positions within the National Arenas Association, his expertise is expected to guide Co-op Live’s strategic, commercial, and operational initiatives effectively.
As Co-op Live expands its offerings, it has confirmed an additional 40 shows for 2024, including hosting the MTV Europe Music Awards in November. The venue has already sold over 900,000 tickets since its opening in May 2024, attracting performances from notable acts like the Eagles, Pearl Jam, and the UFC’s return to Manchester.
Jess Koravos, President of OVG International, expressed enthusiasm for Dunstan’s hiring, citing his vast experience as crucial for guiding Co-op Live’s future. The aspirations for the venue include becoming the most sustainable arena in Europe and a premier destination for artists and fans alike.
Guy Dunstan’s leadership is anticipated to propel Co-op Live’s commitment to excellence and sustainability in the entertainment industry.
