The UK’s largest indoor music-first arena, Co-op Live, has appointed Ben Sharman as its new director of booking.
Sharman officially joins the team today, bringing with him an exceptional track record of success in venue programming.
The arrival coincides with Co-op Live director of strategic programming, Katie Musham’s move into Oak View Group International, where she will continue to grow Co-op Live’s programme of bespoke events, and to support OVG in their rapid expansion across Europe and rest of world.
With over a decade of experience in the live events and entertainment industry, Ben has achieved significant milestones including account managing British Athletics’ commercial partners in advance of the London 2012 Olympic Games and securing major sponsorships for Aston Villa Football Club in the Premier League.
He joined the commercial partnerships department at the NEC Group in 2014, transitioning into arena programming in 2017, and promoted to head of programming for Utilita Arena Birmingham and bp pulse LIVE in late 2022.
Sharman led the arenas to record-breaking financial success including programming iconic tours such as Genesis’ The Last Domino? Tour and Peter Kay’s Better Late Than Never tour, as well as delivering the 2022 Concert for Ukraine, which raised £13 million for the Disasters Emergency Committee.
Sharman said: “Joining Oak View Group and Co-op Live marks an exciting new chapter in my career after an incredible 11 years at the NEC Group, for which I’m deeply grateful. When the opportunity to work with the UK’s largest arena came, it was impossible to turn down. I’m eager to bring my experience in venue programming and strong industry relationships to cement Co-op Live’s status as a must-play venue in the global live events industry.”
Gary Hutchinson, executive vice president global touring and content, Oak View Group International said: “We are delighted to welcome Ben Sharman to Co-op Live. His impressive career trajectory, unmatched expertise, and industry relationships make him the perfect choice to lead our booking strategy. We’re confident that Ben’s vision will further elevate Co-op Live as a premier destination for world-class events, and continue our established record for hosting the world’s most exceptional artists.”
In 2025, Co-op Live is set to welcome a host of global talents such as Sabrina Carpenter, Tyler, the Creator, Bruce Springsteen, Lionel Richie, Hans Zimmer, and more.
