VENUE and event-management giant ASM Global has signed up an executive who has worked with the likes of Elton John, Robbie Williams, Coldplay and Pearl Jam.
Matthew Lazarus-Hall has been made the group’s executive vice president, entertainment and content.
His initial focus will be on the ASM-managed Kai Tak Sports Park, which will be the largest integrated sports, entertainment and retail precinct in Hong Kong. Due to open in mid-2025, the complex will boast a 50,000-seat domed stadium and 10,000-seat indoor arena for sports and entertainment.
Matthew’s 25-year career in the live-entertainment business has included roles such as chief executive of Australia’s Chugg Entertainment, founder and CEO of Square Circles Creative Solutions, which provided event strategy consultancy across touring, festivals, exhibitions and sport.
He was also senior vice president, Asia for global entertainment company AEG overseeing concerts, festivals and sporting events across Asia Pacific.
Before Chugg, Matthew was operations director at Ticketek, where he oversaw ticketing for marquee events such as the Sydney Olympic and Paralympic Games, the 2003 Rugby World Cup, and thousands of other events, concerts and theatrical productions.
In his new role with ASM Global, he will work with ASM’s growing portfolio of venues in Australia and the Asia and MENA regions, providing support regarding the strategic direction and development of entertainment and other content.
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“We have worked closely with Matthew over the past 20 years and he comes with great respect across the whole entertainment industry,” said Harvey Lister, ASM Global’s Asia Pacific chairman and chief executive.
“He will bring different perspectives to our organisation, and we look forward to the contribution he will make to the ASM Global family of venues,” Lister said.
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Matthew describes the opportunity of working with ASM Global and its wider global network of more than 350 of the world’s best indoor arenas, outdoor stadiums and convention centres across five continents, as an exciting challenge.
“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute to the continuing growth and development of ASM Global both in Australia, the Asia Pacific and the Middle East North Africa regions, fostering client relationships and helping to drive further engagement, unique incremental content and ultimately allowing everyone to enjoy the experience of live entertainment,” Matthew said.
