Access All Areas Summer 2025 | Page 59

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Paul Smyth
Wembley Stadium general manager Paul Smyth was promoted to the role of general manager at the 90,000-capacity venue in late 2023. Smyth, who has worked with Wembley Stadium owner the Football Association since 2005, is responsible for overseeing the delivery of events at the stadium, in addition to managing day-to-day operations. Here, he reflects on his career path in the live events industry.

What was the first live music event you attended, and was it formative? A lifetime ago. A triple bill of Joe Coker, Status Quo and Rod Stewart at Gateshead International Stadium. I kept having to remind myself to eat something.

What sparked your interest in a career in the music industry, and how did you get started? I started like many have before me at Ticketmaster. I eventually moved from the sports desk to The FA and all things football. As the years passed, I organically moved into a broader role at Wembley where music became much more of a focus for me.
Has anyone played a key role in supporting your career progression? Too many to mention them all, but they know who they are!
What are the big projects in the pipeline at Wembley this year? We are in the midst of a pretty amazing 2025, where we’ ll welcome more guests into Wembley than at any point in our history. Alongside this, we’ re looking to finalise an even bigger 2026.
It has been a busy time at Wembley the last few years, but what excites you most about the year ahead? Planning for future years. I am hopeful that by the end of the period between the summer of 2025 – 2027 we’ ll deliver more concert nights than the previous 10 years combined.
“ WE’ LL DELIVER MORE CONCERT NIGHTS THAN THE PREVIOUS 10 YEARS COMBINED.”
If you could change one thing overnight about the live events industry, what would it be? A day off would be nice.
What is your favourite way to unwind? I’ m a keen tennis player, but have finally accepted that I’ ll only ever watch Wimbledon.
What’ s the first career highlight that comes to mind? Opening the new Wembley Stadium in 2007 can’ t be ignored. I’ d never felt as stressed and never will again, I don’ t think. accessaa. co. uk 59