Joe GallopVenue management giant ASM Global has appointed Stephen Cooper as vice president of food and beverage UK.
Cooper will work alongside ASM Global venue teams in the UK to develop new food and beverage solutions for all retail and premium areas. ASM Global said he will focus on the introduction of “diverse and sustainable” products and ranges.
ASM Global has also promoted industry veteran Alex Merchán from executive vice president of marketing to chief marketing officer.
ASM Global Europe executive vice president Chris Bray said, “It is fantastic to have Steve join the ASM Global team, which continues to see exciting and fast-paced growth. Steve’s expertise in food and beverage, on a global brand scale makes him an incredibly exciting addition to the team. Food and beverage at all of our venues is a fundamental and evolving part of the customer journey, and as it continues to adapt, grow and move with industry trends and customer behaviours, I am confident that Steve and his team will drive this critical aspect of our business forwards.”
Alex Merchán
Cooper said, “The opportunity to work alongside the wonderful venue teams to help deliver inspirational, innovative, and memorable events across a diverse and expanding portfolio is a privilege. The passion for excellence in the ASM team is a culture that I have long admired, and I am excited to now be a part of it.”
Merchan will lead the company’s branding and positioning across areas including global partnerships, digital and CRM strategy, business development, and advisory and investing efforts across the US and internationally. Prior to ASM Global, Merchán oversaw marketing for Live Nation’s clubs and theatres division.
ASM Global president and CEO Ron Bension said, “In less than one year with our company, Alex has been responsible for reimagining our marketing support infrastructure while simultaneously dramatically enhancing our network’s external initiatives for our clients and partners.”