Gary Simpson is Senior Vice President Operations at Legends Global, with executive responsibility for the operational and commercial performance of 12 major UK entertainment venues and oversight across the wider European portfolio. He sits on the European Leadership Board and leads UK wide operations spanning event delivery, commercial growth, guest experience, estate management and risk governance.
In his current role, Gary has led complex venue mobilisations and major capital projects across the UK, including new arena openings and redevelopments in Aberdeen, Hull, Sheffield and Derby. He has developed performance frameworks focused on revenue optimisation, cost control and sustainable EBITDA growth across live events, premium seating, food and beverage and sponsorship. He also retains strategic ownership of enterprise risk across Europe, ensuring strong governance, resilience and public safety standards while supporting commercially ambitious event programming.
Prior to this, Gary was Director of Security, Safety and Risk for Legends Global, appointed following the Manchester Arena terrorist attack. He led the redesign of the organisation’s European security and resilience strategy and gave evidence as a key witness to the Manchester Arena Public Inquiry, helping shape sector wide learning and improved practice.
Before joining Legends Global, Gary held a senior leadership role at Manchester United Football Club as Deputy Head of Stadium Safety and Security. He was responsible for matchday and event operations at Old Trafford, managing over 1,200 event staff and supporting the club’s commercial objectives through robust safety, security and risk management at one of the world’s most high-profile sporting venues.
Gary’s earlier career was spent with Greater Manchester Police, where he served as a senior commander overseeing major public events, festivals and football operations across the city region.
