University News Last updated 15 February 2011
Events expert and Chief Executive of the NEC Group, Paul Thandi, will receive an honorary doctoral degree from Birmingham City University later this week in recognition of his outstanding business achievements.
Paul is one of the region’s most influential businessmen and head of the UK’s largest and most high-profile venue management company. His expertise in events and exhibitions management first flourished at CMP Information (CMPi), a multimedia trading division in exhibitions, conferences, digital, information products and online communities. He spent his last three years there leading CMPi’s acquisition and merger strategy.
Paul became Chief Executive of the NEC Group in October 2006 following 18 months as its Commercial Director, where his drive and outstanding business acumen soon had a marked effect on the company’s growth. During his early years with the NEC Group, he delivered the largest haul of new business in any one year in the company's history.
As CEO of the NEC Group, Paul takes responsibility for its impact both regionally and nationally. His policy of responsibility to its communities and the wider region has contributed to the company’s delivery of £2 billion of economic investment to the West Midlands. It also supports more than 28,000 full-time equivalent jobs.
He has worked to create a positive culture within the company, masterfully steering the business through an uncertain economic climate. He rebuilt the company’s image to ensure that the NEC Group, and the West Midlands, remains in the global spotlight.
The Group’s venues include the iconic National Exhibition Centre, The International Convention Centre, The National Indoor Arena and the new LG Arena which, together, draw more than 4.1 million visitors annually.
His philosophy for the business is to focus on creating the best possible experience for customers at every interaction with each venue and its services.
Paul’s award is due to be conferred at 3.45pm on Thursday 17th February 2011 at the Awards Congregation ceremony which will celebrate the work and achievements of students graduating from the Faculty of Education, Law and Social Sciences.