Richard Ayoade Named as AEO Excellence Awards Host

The Association of Event Organisers (AEO) has announced Richard Ayoade as its celebrity host for the 30th AEO Excellence Awards, taking place at the Grosvenor House,  on Park Lane on the 16th June 2023.

The illustrious event, in association with headline sponsors, Circdata, GES and the NEC, Birmingham, recognises and celebrates the achievements of organisers, venues and suppliers from across the industry. It’s a day of celebrations which includes entertainment from a celebrity host and live band, and plenty of networking opportunities. This year’s theme is a nod to the nineties.

Richard Ayoade (cover photo) is a multi-award winning comedian, actor, writer, director and television presenter. Richard is best known for his role in the Channel 4 sitcom The IT Crowd, for which he won the 2014 BAFTA for Best Male Comedy Performance, and fronting nine series of the popular Channel 4 programme Travel Man.

He has directed two feature films – Submarine (2010) and The Double (2013) – as well as various music videos for bands. Richard often appears on comedy panel shows such as Big Fat Quiz of the Year, has guest presented Have I Got News For You and has starred in comedy hits such as The Mighty Boosh and Nathan Barley.

Richard presented Channel 4’s factual show Gadget Man and currently presents the revival of The Crystal Maze. His has written three books Ayoade On Top (2019), Ayoade on Ayoade (2014) and The Grip of Film (2017).

Chris Skeith OBE, AEO chief executive says: “We’re over the moon to have Richard as our host for this year’s AEO Excellence Awards. His original voice and personality will bring good humour and something fresh to the table as we celebrate our 30th anniversary. Having watched lots of his footage, I am certain he won't disappoint. It’s going to be one to remember and if you haven’t submitted your entries yet – the deadline is the 31st of March. Good luck!”