Co-Op Live Appoints Gary Roden As Executive Director And General Manager

Oak View Group (OVG), the venue management company behind the development of the £365 million, 23,500-capacity Co-op Live arena in Manchester, has appointed Gary Roden to lead the management of the venue.

Mr Roden, former Senior Vice President of Client Development and Commercial at Ticketmaster, joins OVG this week as take on the role of executive director and general manager, leading an eight-strong executive team and oversee management for Co-op Live, which is due to be the first all electric arena when it opens later in 2023. The venue is expected to host more than 120 shows annually.

Speaking about his new appointment, Mr Roden said: “I am delighted to be joining Co-op Live, leading the team in Manchester to launch and operate a game-changing arena experience for both fans and artists.

“I can’t wait to get started, working with Oak View Group, City Football Group, key stakeholders and partners to launch what is not only set to be a ground-breaking arena for the UK, but one that will see Manchester firmly leading the way globally.”

Jessica Koravos, Co-Chair of Oak View Group International, added: “Gary Roden’s experience speaks for itself, and we’re thrilled to have him join an already phenomenal team of exceptional industry leaders, and to continue to drive Oak View Group and City Football Group’s joint vision to deliver world leading, planet friendly entertainment.”

Co-op Live is working with Glastonbury Festival and Coldplay sustainability consultants Hope Solutions to develop its net-zero strategy. It aims to become the “most sustainable and socially responsible arena in the UK”, pledging to support Manchester City Council’s target of becoming net zero carbon by 2038 and donating “at least £1m annually” to the Co-op Foundation to support local and national initiatives focused on young people, food security, education and sustainability.