Guy Smith set up Global Stadiums to help develop and deliver great stadiums and fan experiences throughout the world.  Since entering a football stadium for the first time, he was captivated by their architecture and atmosphere. His approach never loses sight of the human and emotional aspects of stadiums- these are where people chose to gather in numbers to celebrate their community and sense of belonging. He has advised on stadium projects across the world including new stadiums in China, Africa and the Middle East.

 

Guy was project lead and main author of FIFA’s Stadiums Guidelines- a comprehensive guide to stadium feasibility, design, operations and technical requirements. This was FIFA’s first generic stadium publication in over a decade as football’s governing body promoted a practical and sustainable approach to stadium development.

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He also edited and co-authored FIBA's Venue Guide, which illustrates how to place basketball at the heart of multi-sport arenas and covering outdoor facilities.

 

He worked for FIFA’s Tournaments & Events Division issuing stadium requirements and assessing stadium suitability and readiness for FIFA tournaments. Guy has delivered lectures for FIFA’s Diploma in Club Management and was a member of the advisory panel for FIFA's Technical Development Centres and High-Performance Centres (2021). He continues to provide stadium management support to FIFA including delivering stadium operator workshops.

 

Guy previously worked for Manchester United where he was Venue Operations Director at Old Trafford - England’s largest club stadium.

 

Guy is a qualified Chartered Accountant and started his career at Deloitte, where he became part of the Sports Business Group and co-author of Deloitte’s football finance reviews.

 

He looks forward to his next stadium visit…

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