NEC Group names new CEO as part of leadership succession plan

The NEC Group has today announced a succession plan for its executive leadership team – with chief financial officer Paul Reeve stepping up to succeed current CEO Melaine Smith.

Melanie will step down as CEO at the end of 2025, when she will be succeeded by Paul who has been CFO since October 2023.

Meanwhile, Stephen Goodluck will join as CFO. The changes will take effect from 1 January 2026.

Melanie will continue to support the NEC as an adviser to the company in her new role as a senior adviser to the group’s owner Blackstone.

Prior to joining the NEC Group, Paul spent 10 years at AEG, where he was European CFO overseeing their venue, ticketing, touring and festival operations across the region.

Stephen joins from Bourne Leisure, the UK’s leading holiday and leisure company, where he served as group finance director.

He has previously held senior roles at Dunelm Group and key finance roles across Sainsburys Argos.

Sir Nick Varney, Chair of NEC Group, commented: “Melanie has done an amazing job as CEO. She joined at a pivotal time, tasked with refocusing, streamlining, and accelerating the business in the wake of the global pandemic’s impact on our industry.

“Today, the NEC Group is thriving, with a clear strategy delivering strong results, and benefitting from world-class new partnerships and a highly capable management team.

“Paul is a strong and talented leader, who has been instrumental in shaping the Group’s strategy and delivering a number of significant transformation projects since he joined in 2023.

“Under his leadership, we are excited about the opportunities ahead. Paul will be well supported by Stephen as CFO, combining strategic, commercial and industry expertise to form the ideal leadership team for the NEC Group’s future.”

Paul Reeve said: “I am honoured to be appointed CEO of such an iconic business as the NEC Group.

“With a clear strategy, great trading momentum, and a very strong platform for growth, we are well-positioned to build on our success.

“Backed by internationally renowned venues, fantastic supporting infrastructure, and an exceptional team of colleagues, I’m excited to lead the next phase for Europe’s leading live events business.”

Melanie Smith said: “It has been a privilege to be part of the NEC Group, and I would like to thank all of our incredible colleagues for the energy and passion that have enabled such extraordinary progress in the past couple of years.

“The NEC creates amazing experiences and lifelong memories for our customers, as it has for me, and I look forward to seeing the business continue to scale new heights under the direction of Paul and our brilliant team.

“With Blackstone’s support, the NEC has gone from strength to strength, driving significant growth and transformation while building a solid platform for future success. I’m excited to step into my new role as senior adviser to the firm.”

Pictured: Paul Reeve and Melanie Smith