Olympia Events Appoints Richard Harris as Technology Director

Olympia Events, managed by Legends Global, has appointed Richard Harris (cover) as Technology Director, strengthening the organisation’s ambition to become a more technology-led and data-driven business as Olympia’s €1.52 billion regeneration project continues to reshape the historic London destination.

Harris joins the business at a pivotal moment in Olympia’s transformation, where technology, connectivity and data are increasingly positioned as central pillars in the delivery of exhibitions, conferences and live experiences across the evolving venue ecosystem.

With more than two decades of experience across events, sports, ticketing and marketing, Harris brings expertise spanning digital transformation, IT operations, cybersecurity and large-scale customer-facing environments. His appointment reflects Olympia Events’ broader strategy to integrate technology more deeply across operational systems, organiser services and visitor experiences.

Before joining Olympia Events, Harris served as Director at Two Circles, contributing to the agency’s rapid international growth and commercial expansion. His career also includes senior leadership roles at the Rugby Football Union, Rugby World Cup 2015, the London 2012 Olympic Games and Wembley Stadium, where he oversaw the delivery of the venue’s opening technology infrastructure.

At Olympia Events, Harris will lead the organisation’s technology strategy and operational delivery, overseeing core IT infrastructure, connectivity, cybersecurity and data systems. Working alongside the venue’s internal teams and broader business operations, he will focus on strengthening digital capabilities, improving efficiency and enhancing the end-to-end experience for organisers, exhibitors and visitors.

Alex Lewis, COO at Olympia Events, said: “Richard will play a critical role in strengthening our technology foundations while helping us become a more insight-led, data-driven business. His ability to translate business needs into practical, outcome-focused solutions will be key as we continue to grow and diversify.

“Our ambition is to place customer-led thinking at the centre of every decision. Richard’s leadership will support greater collaboration across teams and help us deliver even better experiences for our organisers, exhibitors and visitors.”

The appointment forms part of a wider leadership investment programme at Olympia Events as the organisation prepares for the next phases of Olympia’s long-term redevelopment, which aims to reposition the destination as a major hub for events, entertainment, hospitality and business in London.

Commenting on his appointment, Harris said: “This role represents a rare opportunity to help shape the future of a globally recognised venue at a pivotal moment in its history. I’m looking forward to working with the team to ensure technology acts as a true enabler of growth, delivering practical, outcome-driven solutions that enhance both the organisation and the guest experience within our event spaces.”

Olympia’s regeneration programme continues to advance in phases following the opening of Wetherby Pembridge in September 2025 and Idalia at Pillar Hall in March 2026. Additional venues and public spaces are expected to open progressively, culminating in the launch of Olympia’s new theatre in early 2027.
 

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