By Gail Sawyer
ASM Global announced that Dan Harris will join Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai, as Commercial Director. With more than 20 years of live events and entertainment industry experience, Dan brings a strong skill set to the Commercial Director position having extensive experience in several UK venues within the ASM Global group.
This appointment comes following the promotion of Mark Jan Kar who assumed his new role of General Manager of the Coca-Cola Arena in June 2021. Dubai’s home of live entertainment has seen a tremendous lineup of events over the past six months, with the arena diversifying its strategy by catering to an increasing number of sporting events.
Dan joins Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai, ahead of a busy calendar of events for 2022.
ASM Global APAC Chairman and Chief Executive, Harvey Lister AM, said he was excited to welcome Dan to the Arena’s award-winning team. “As a proven leader within ASM Global, we are thrilled to welcome Dan to the team. Coca-Cola Arena has seen a strong recovery as it emerges from the pandemic, and I am positive that Dan’s extensive background in events and venue management will greatly benefit the arena as Dubai cements itself on the global touring circuit.”
Most recently, Harris has served as general manager for ASM Global in the UK at Bonus Arena, The Baths Hall, and The Plowright Theatre. Dan brings with him a wealth of experience and extensive industry relationships having managed the pre-opening and launch of both the Bonus Arena (2018) and The Baths Hall (2011).
Iain Campbell, Executive Vice President, ASM Global – Gulf Region, highlights that Dan’s appointment reinforces ASM Global’s reputation to bring the best talent from across the globe. “It is a great pleasure to welcome Dan to the team with his considerable knowledge and experience, supporting Mark Jan Kar and the Coca-Cola Arena team in the Gulf Region.
“It is really exciting when we are able to provide career advancement opportunities for industry professionals already working within our global family of facilities.”
Dan will relocate with his family to Dubai in March in order to take on his new role at Coca-Cola Arena, the region’s premier entertainment venue. “I am looking forward to the challenge afforded to me in the Middle East, by ASM Global and Dubai Holding,” he said. “It is great to see the return of live events in Dubai and I will be working closely with key stakeholders and commercial partners to continue driving the industry at Dubai’s home of live entertainment.”
Gail Sawyer is Group Communications Manager – ASM Global (Asia Pacific).
