The National Exhibition Centre (NEC) has confirmed that its long-serving Venue General Manager, Linda Ritchie, will retire on 30th June, marking the end of an impressive 26-year career with the organisation.
Linda Ritchie has played a pivotal role in shaping the NEC’s reputation as one of the UK’s leading exhibition and events venues. Appointed as Venue General Manager a decade ago, she has overseen a diverse portfolio of high-profile events and exhibitions. Under her leadership, the NEC successfully hosted flagship shows such as Spring Fair, Autumn Fair, Motorcycle Live, IMHX, and the Motorhome and Caravan Show.
During her tenure, Linda also led significant venue enhancements, including the transformation of the Piazza, which greatly improved the visitor experience and strengthened the NEC’s appeal for organisers and exhibitors alike. Her strong leadership, dedication, and industry expertise have earned her widespread respect across the events sector.
Colleagues and partners have praised her exceptional work ethic and unwavering commitment, highlighting the lasting impact she has made on the venue and the wider industry.
As part of its succession plan, the NEC has announced the appointment of Gillian Kiamil as the new Venue General Manager. She will join the organisation from Olympia on 1st June, ensuring a smooth leadership transition.
Gillian Kiamil brings over 25 years of experience in the global events industry. She began her career at DMG World Media and has since built an extensive portfolio spanning concerts, fashion shows, large-scale exhibitions, and major international events, including The London International Horse Show.
Her career highlights include playing a crucial role in the closure of Earl’s Court and successfully transitioning a significant portion of its event portfolio to Olympia. Most recently, she led the delivery of Olympia’s £1.6 billion regeneration project, further strengthening its position as a premier destination for global events.
Sarah Harvey, NEC Deputy CEO and Managing Director of Exhibitions, praised Linda’s contribution, stating that her leadership and dedication have left a lasting legacy at the venue. She also expressed enthusiasm about Gillian’s appointment, noting her proven track record in managing and transforming major venues.
With this leadership transition, the NEC aims to build on its strong foundation while continuing to innovate and enhance its offering for exhibitors, organisers, and visitors.
