ASM Global APAC appoints new General Manager at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena

ASM Global APAC has announced that Coca-Cola Arena’s Mark Jan Kar will be promoted to the new role of General Manager as part of a restructure following the recent resignation of current Chief Executive Guy Ngata.

Kar who is currently the Arena’s Director - Commercial & Live, will assume the role on 20th June following the departure of Ngata who is returning to New Zealand.

Praising Ngata for his outstanding contribution to the success of the venue from pre-opening in 2017 to the present time, ASM Global APAC Chairman and Chief Executive, Harvey Lister stated “Guy’s leadership and management of the Arena is demonstrated by Coca-Cola Arena Dubai being named Venue of the Year at the Middle East Event Awards last month.

“Guy will be returning to Auckland to join his family for an extended period and we wish him well in his future endeavours.”

Lister said he was confident and excited about the Arena as it transitions to a post COVID recovery, in the experienced hands of Kar and the Arena’s award-winning team, noting “we are committed to and optimistic about the future.

“As a long-time resident of Dubai, Mark’s understanding and knowledge of the many wonderful and unique characteristics of the destination will be invaluable and he will be fully supported by the whole ASM Global Team as we grow content for the United Arab Emirates and the Gulf region generally.”

Reflecting on his time at Coca-Cola Arena, Ngata said introducing a new form of entertainment at what was the very first arena in the Middle East, enriching the existing world-class activities in Dubai, was a major highlight.   

He advised “I am very proud of what the team has achieved and being able to take the vision of the Arena’s owners, Dubai Holding and bring it to life showcasing Dubai to the world.”

Bringing a wealth of experience in the sports and events industries, Kar has lived in Dubai since 2008, a city where he met his wife and a city he says that continues to progress, develop and adapt.

His vision for the Coca-Cola Arena is to consolidate its position as the region’s premier entertainment and sports venue.

Explaining his immediate priorities, Kar identified working closely with key stakeholders including the Dubai Government and commercial partners to expedite the return of live events.

He explained “I am looking forward to the opportunity afforded to me by ASM Global APAC and Dubai Holding. As an executive team we are committed along with our stakeholders to the return of ‘live’ in the city of Dubai and truly excited for what the future holds.”

Images: Mark Jan Kar (top) and the Coca-Cola Arena during an event (below). Credit: ASM Global.