ADNEC Group gains top talent

Darren Johnson joins the group as CEO of Capital Events.

Darren Johnson held the positions of CEO and divisional managing director at Reed Exhibitions prior to this new appointment.
Darren Johnson held the positions of CEO and divisional managing director at Reed Exhibitions prior to this new appointment. Photo Credit: ADNEC Group

ADNEC Group has appointed Darren Johnson as CEO of Capital Events, a subsidiary of ADNEC Group, a leading event organising powerhouse.

ADNEC Group’s strategic objectives include the growth of business tourism by organising and drawing major new events to the UAE, hosted in Abu Dhabi. Johnson will develop Capital Events as an international organiser platform, to strengthen the Group’s competitiveness and ensure operational success.

Johnson brings extensive experience and expertise to the events industry, with a track record in driving growth and achieving results. He is a strategic leader who is adept at managing rapid development and driving organisational efficiency through improvement of business operations.

Prior to joining ADNEC Group, Johnson held the positions of CEO and divisional managing director at Reed Exhibitions. He has also served on the Board of several major companies and industry forums.

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, managing director and group CEO of ADNEC Group, said: “I would like to extend a warm welcome to Darren and wish him great success in his new role. With his wealth of experience and unique skills, I am confident that Darren will make a valuable contribution to the success to Capital Events. We look forward to continuing the company’s journey of success, which ensures offering its clients world-class services, in accordance with the highest international standards.

Darren Johnson, CEO of Capital Events, said: “I am thrilled to take on this new challenge to drive the Capital Events to new realms of excellence and success. Capital Events has cemented its position as one of the leading events companies in the region. I look forward to developing the company’s portfolio of high-profile events and exhibitions, while providing our exhibitors and stakeholders with best in-class events capabilities.”

Capital Events shows include eight international ones organised by the group: the International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX), the Naval Defence & Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX), the Unmanned Systems Exhibition & Conference (UMEX), the Simulation and Training Exhibition (SIMTEX), the International Exhibition of National Security and Resilience (ISNR), the Global Media Congress, the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show (ADIBS), and Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition (ADIFE).