Don Elford

Background

About Don Elford

As the Director of Global Partnerships at ASM Global, I lead commercial opportunities and manage partnerships for a network of arenas, stadiums, convention and exhibition centres in Australia. With 30+ years of experience in the industry, I have developed expertise in naming rights, commercial management, business development, marketing, event promotion, and production. In a previous role, I was seconded from Global Partnerships to rebuild the brand of the NBL Sydney Kings basketball team, culminating in a successful sale of the team after three years. Prior to this, I served as the AEG Ogden Group Marketing Manager and held various roles across Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney and RAC Arena, Perth. My experience also includes General Manager of the A.C.T. at Ticketek, where I was responsible for full P&L and business development encompassing Promoter Rep for Michael Coppel Presents, Frontier Touring, Paul Dainty and Andrew McManus Presents and most other concert promoters of the time. After relocating to Sydney I took on the role of National Venues and Events Manager with a focus on Promoter relations, contract acquisition, and marketing of event tickets. As a highly creative businessman who values good company culture, I am known for my ability to listen, learn, and understand the business and targeted audience before designing strategy. Collaboration is where I excel, although I also work effectively independently. Beyond my professional accomplishments, I am passionate about music and have studied the business of music at all levels. I have spoken on panel sessions at international conferences and even operate a hobby record label to facilitate the development of new artists. In my free time, I enjoy playing drums and occasionally perform the occasional cameo live.