The BDC has today announced that its Chief Executive Officer and longest-serving member of staff, Dominic Jones, is to step down at the end of year.
First joining the historic London venue in 1991, Jones was appointed CEO of the BDC eight years later after quickly rising through the ranks. During his time, he was instrumental in elevating the venue to its multi award-winning status and cultivating a people culture that has seen the retention of so many of its team, clients and suppliers, as well as being recognised as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work.
In addition to being a philanthropic leader within its community, the culmination of this success lead to the BDC’s acquisition by Excel London last year, marking the next chapter for the venue.
Now, after 35 years with the business – 26 of those as its CEO – Jones will step down at the end of the year with Max Bull being promoted to Chief Commercial Officer, with responsibility for overseeing all commercial and operational lines of business. Meanwhile, Joe Mullee will continue in his role as Finance Director. Jones said:
“I joined the Company some 35 years ago, when it was still in its early years under the ownership of the Morris family. Over time, I have helped nurture and develop the business into a world-class venue, and I leave it in fantastic shape, with great new owners who share the long-term vision, as do its management team and staff.
"I believe now is the right time for me to hand the reins to someone else to continue the next part of its journey. It’s been the honour of my lifetime to help this wonderful venue grow into something that is so treasured in our industry.
"I’d like to thank our owners, both past and present, my colleagues, clients, tenants and suppliers for their loyalty and support over such a long period of time and most of all my wonderful family, who have been with me every step of the way.”
Jeremy Rees, CEO of Excel London, added:
“I would like to congratulate Dominic on a remarkable career at the BDC. He leaves behind a strong legacy - a high-performing team, a successful business, and deep relationships with customers and local stakeholders. He will be greatly missed, and we wish him all the very best for the future.
"I would also like to congratulate Max Bull on his extremely well-deserved promotion to Chief Commercial Officer. Max has played a pivotal role in the success of the BDC, and I look forward to working closely with him, Joe and the rest of the team as they continue to lead the development and growth of the business."
Originally the Royal Agricultural Hall dating back to 1862, the Grade II listed BDC now spans a 4.5-acre freehold estate and hosts a wide array of leading events, awards and product launches, welcoming more than 900,000 visitors a year.
Last October, Excel London, part of ADNEC Group, completed the acquisition of BDCG Holdings as part of its ongoing investment in the UK MICE industry, ensuring a long-term commitment to one of London’s most historic and popular venues.
