The management firm running Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre (AECC) has appointed a new boss for the venue in advance of its move to a new site in 2019.
SMG Europe said yesterday Nick Waight, who recently led the team delivering a new £10million conference venue in Birmingham, will take up the reins as managing director of the AECC in April.
He will take over from Adrian Hunter, who became interim chief executive when SMG took over the current Bridge of Don facility earlier this year.
Mr Waight’s past roles include a spell as chief executive of Dublin’s Convention Centre, where he was responsible for overseeing the design, build and operation of the £185million venue. It went on to win 33 industry awards and was voted one of the world’s top four convention centres.
John Sharkey, executive vice-president of European operations, SMG, said: “Nick brings with him a wealth of skills and experience in both operational and commercial management which are the perfect fit for both the existing and new AECC.”
Mr Waight added: “It will be a privilege to lead the team at the AECC, both at the existing venue and transitioning into the fantastic new facility in 2019.”
The new £333million complex at Bucksburn will feature a 12,500 capacity arena, nearly 540,000sq ft of exhibition space and conference facilities and three hotels. It is forecast to generate £63million a year for Scotland’s economy by 2025.