The managing director of conferences and events at ExCeL London, Vanessa Cotton, has announced she is to leave the venue after almost four years in the role.

“My objectives when I joined ExCeL were to help establish the venue as an international destination for major events, grow the conference and events business, and create a world class team, and I’m really proud of the fact that we have achieved all of those things,” said Cotton. “I have had a truly wonderful time during the past four years, worked with some amazing and inspirational people and achieved much, but it’s now time to move on to my next challenge.”

Cotton: Instrumental in shaping ExCeL London


Since Cotton’s arrival at the venue, conference and events business has grown significantly and now accounts for around 30% of total revenue.

She was recently the recipient of the first-ever Outstanding Achievement Award given by Eventia, in recognition of her contribution to the industry, including her establishment of The Event Organisation Company and her role as a board director at ExCeL London. She has been influential and highly active in the campaign to promote London’s business tourism offering internationally – just one in a range of voluntary projects she has embraced during her career.

Commenting on Cotton’s decision to leave ExCeL London, the venue’s chief executive Kevin Murphy said: “Vanessa has been instrumental in making ExCeL what it is today, and we will all miss her enthusiasm, professionalism and good humour. She has become a valued and trusted colleague and leaves ExCeL London in very good shape.”