60 seconds with Dan Le Grange

1/ You’ve been with GLL trading as Better for over a decade. What’s been the standouts from those years?

Since joining GLL, I’ve established and driven the growth of our Better Venues portfolio through focussing on the unique opportunities it presents to venue hirers across the UK and Northern Ireland. 

From historical buildings like Ashburton Hall to contemporary buildings and state-of-the-art iconic sports facilities like Lee Valley White Water Centre and the National Cycling Centre in Manchester – our portfolio is as broad as it is unique.

It’s been incredible to host events with stand out shows including the Kennedy Fashion event promoting H&M’s recent collection with stars like Charli XCX to Matchroom Boxing bouts with Jonny Fisher and Alen Babic with the electric atmosphere at Copper Box Arena.

Most recently, it’s been great to receive accolades such as Copper Box Arena being awarded bronze at the 2024 conference and event awards in London.

2/ What’s Better Venues’ distinctive qualities for corporate events as we approach 2026? 

At Better Venues, we proudly offer a diverse range of flexible spaces across the UK, including some of the country’s most iconic and award-winning venues such as Copper Box Arena, Lee Valley VeloPark and York Stadium Leisure Complex among many others up and down the country.

What sets Better Venues apart is our commitment to not only incredible event experiences for organisers and attendees alike but also making a real difference as Better is the trading name for GLL, the UK’s largest charitable social enterprise. 

With dry hire options available across our estate, we give event organisers the freedom to design and shape their events as well as our teams supporting them in that process.

3/ From a client perspective, what does Dan Le Grange bring differently to the mix?

From my experience managing events across sport and leisure venues, I’ve developed an in-depth understanding of key account and stakeholder management, experience working with leading brands across entertainment and sports. Most importantly, building an understanding of the importance of corporate hospitality and forging commercial partnerships such as with local hoteliers and VIP transport organisers local to our major venues.