BrazilBLR World names UAE-based Lisa Pennington as Chief Operating Officer
BLR World, an international consultancy for the culture, entertainment and mega-event sectors, has appointed UAE-based Lisa Pennington as its new Chief Operating Officer and a member of its Senior Leadership Team.
Operating out of the firm’s Dubai office, Lisa Pennington will assume a global remit, overseeing the operations of the firm’s six offices worldwide: London, Paris, Dubai, Doha, Riyadh and Osaka.
“There has never been a more dynamic time to work across the sports, entertainment, events, culture, and tourism industries both within the Middle East and across BLR World’s global network. I’m thrilled to take up the role of Chief Operating Officer and utilise my experience and expertise to add value and make a difference.”
Pennington brings over 25 years of experience in leadership and subject-matter expertise in sports and events, including a decade of experience of delivering events in the Middle East.
Among other roles she held, Pennington was Director of Services in the Event Operations Division of FIFA, responsible for governance and leadership of the Services Sub-Division which consisted of several functional areas including Workforce, Human Resources and Recruitment for FIFA World Cup subsidiaries, volunteers and guest experience and operations for the FIFA World Cup, FIFA Women's World Cup and all other FIFA Tournaments.
Pennington also brings a breadth of knowledge and expertise in advisory and consulting, delivering projects at some of the world’s largest sporting events and mega events such as Olympic Games and Expo 2020. She contributed to the delivery of high-profile events for the UAE and UK governments.
“As one of the most respected professionals in our sector, Lisa brings tremendous experience of regional events on a global stage, and managing large-scale, world-class experiences with flawless skill and organisational methods,” said Micah Styles, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of BLR World.
