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Co-op Live names Ben Sharman as Director of Booking
January8
Co-op Live has announced Ben Sharman as its new director of booking, effective Jan. 8. Sharman, kno
Co-op Live has announced Ben Sharman as its new director of booking, effective Jan. 8. Sharman, known for his exceptional success in venue programming, steps into the role as the UK’s largest arena continues to solidify its reputation in the global live events industry.
Sharman’s appointment coincides with Co-op Live’s director of strategic programming, Katie Musham, transitioning to Oak View Group (OVG) International, where she will focus on growing bespoke events for Co-op Live and supporting OVG’s rapid expansion globally.
With over a decade in live events, Sharman has achieved notable milestones, including managing British Athletics’ commercial partners for the London 2012 Olympics and securing major sponsorships for Aston Villa Football Club. At the NEC Group, where he joined in 2014, Sharman rose to head of programming for Utilita Arena Birmingham and bp pulse LIVE in 2022.
On his new role, Sharman said:
“Joining Oak View Group and Co-op Live marks an exciting new chapter in my career after an incredible 11 years at the NEC Group, for which I’m deeply grateful. When the opportunity to work with the UK’s largest arena came, it was impossible to turn down. I’m eager to bring my experience in venue programming and strong industry relationships to cement Co-op Live’s status as a must-play venue in the global live events industry.”
Gary Hutchinson, EVP of global touring and content at OVG International, praised Sharman:
“We are delighted to welcome Ben Sharman to Co-op Live. His impressive career trajectory, unmatched expertise, and industry relationships make him the perfect choice to lead our booking strategy. We’re confident that Ben’s vision will further elevate Co-op Live as a premier destination for world-class events, and continue our established record for hosting the world’s most exceptional artists.”
In 2025, Co-op Live will welcome global stars like Sabrina Carpenter, Tyler, The Creator, Bruce Springsteen, Lionel Richie, and Hans Zimmer.
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