Olympia Events has appointed Alex Lewis as Chief Operating Officer, as the landmark London venue embarks on a transformative redevelopment project valued at approximately £1.3 billion.
Lewis, who officially joined the organisation on 27 October 2025, brings 28 years of experience across live events, sport and hospitality. His previous roles include Director of Operations at Surrey County Cricket Club (the Kia Oval) and catering operations at Ascot Racecourse. He also co-founded an events consultancy that supported global classics such as the America’s Cup and the Volvo Ocean Race.
In his new role, Lewis will oversee venue operations, help scale commercial offerings and guide Olympia’s evolution into a “world-class cultural and entertainment destination,” according to CEO Andy O’Sullivan. He will play a key role in steering the organisation through its next phase of transformation, which includes the launch of an international convention centre, a private members’ house in 2026, and hospitality elements like hotels, restaurants and offices expected through late 2025 and into 2027.
The redevelopment is set to roll out in phases, with the first opening planned for September 2025, followed by a new theatre in early 2027. Olympia’s redevelopment integrates cultural, hospitality and events facilities under a unified campus strategy — aligning the venue with modern experiential and hybrid-event expectations.
Lewis commented: “It’s an absolute privilege to join Olympia Events at such an important stage in its journey. Olympia is set to become a truly iconic global destination, and this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine how people experience live events and entertainment in London.”
With Lewis now on board and the redevelopment underway, Olympia Events aims to reinforce its position as one of the UK’s leading event venues. Stakeholders across exhibitions, conferences and entertainment will be watching closely as the venue pivots from its historic legacy to a forward-looking, integrated event hub designed for the next era of live experience.
