Donnelly To Make Mark At O2

Mark Donnelly says his main task as the new managing director of London’s O2 Arena is to make sure the venue stays on a roll.

"Everyone agrees that The O2 has had an astounding first year. My challenge now is to ensure we keep up that momentum, keep the content fresh and engaging for our customers, and keep ahead of our competitors," he told Pollstar. "The music industry is ever changing and we must stay ahead of the game and retain our reputation for pushing boundaries."

Donnelly, formerly finance director of AEG Europe, is replacing general manager Mike Potter, who is leaving AEG to take up a role as chief executive of Woburn in June.

Before joining AEG Europe he worked for Street Broadcast, the Apax Partners-funded startup, as finance director.

He previously worked for Virgin Radio and then Ginger Media, seeing it through its £225 million sale to SMG in 2000.

"He has been instrumental in opening The O2. This new appointment will be a challenge that I know he will relish," said AEG Europe chief exec David Campbell.

"His management skills are second to none and I know under his leadership The O2 will continue to go from strength to strength. I am also extremely grateful to Mike [Potter] for his wise counsel since 2005."

Since opening, The O2 has established itself as the world’s No. 1 music arena and won seven industry awards, including International Arena of the Year and Best New Major Concert Venue at the Pollstar Concert Industry Awards in February.