Geoff Ellis, CEO of Glasgow-based DF Concerts and Events, has been honoured with the National Arenas Award 2024 for Outstanding Contribution to the Live Entertainment Industry.
Celebrating 40 years in live music in 2025, Ellis has continued to deliver a huge contribution to the UK’s arena business, helping to bring world-class artists to venues including the OVO Hydro and P&J Live.
Ellis was presented with his award by National Arenas Association (NAA) Board Member and Manging Director of Strategy and People at the SEC, Debbie McWilliams.
John Drury, VP and General Manager of OVO Arena Wembley and Chair of NAA, said: “It feels fitting that we celebrate the significant contribution of Geoff as he marks four decades of incredible work in the live music industry. Geoff has become particularly synonymous with live music in Scotland, but his influence extends far beyond this as a member of the Concert Promoters Association. Backed by a brilliant team at DF, his support for the arenas business has been unwavering so I’m delighted that we’re able to give this award to such a deserving recipient.”
On picking up the accolade, Ellis said: “I was very pleasantly surprised to receive the Outstanding Contribution award from the National Arenas Association – it means so much to be recognised by colleagues, all working together to both present life-affirming live events but to also keep our wonderful live music industry moving forward. It is a genuine honour but also very humbling to be in such esteemed company as the previous recipients.”
Since being appointed Chief Executive of DF Concerts in 2001, Ellis has dedicated his life to bringing live music and events to Scotland. He has been influential in supporting the growth of venues such as Glasgow’s OVO Hydro, working with the biggest names in live entertainment including Take That, Kings of Leon, Eminem, AC/DC, The Eagles, Rihanna, Radiohead and Coldplay. He has also helped to break countless new artists who would go on to great success in arenas across the UK, including Gerry Cinnamon, Paolo Nutini and Lewis Capaldi.
The NAA Outstanding Contribution award has been selected and presented annually by NAA members since 2009 to recognise those who have gone above and beyond in their contribution to either the NAA, the live entertainment industry or the music industry.
www.nationalarenasassociation.com
