Smith initially worked at the Global Infusion Group as operations manager back in 2002 before moving to Dubai. He has always maintained close links to the business and worked with them on a project by project basis in the interim, this included a stint out in Baku for the first ever European Games in 2015.
Smith’s experience in catering and the wider event market and knowledge of the Middle East region will allow Global Infusion Group to harness the opportunities that exist there. These include Expo 2020 in Dubai, where catering division GIG has already secured several contracts, including the exclusive catering and hospitality partner for the UK Pavilion, to Qatar 2022 and the rapid growth of the event and leisure industries in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Commenting on his return, Mike Smith said: “My relationship with Global Infusion Group goes back almost 20 years, it’s a truly global business with high standards and exceptional service levels at its core. I’m really looking forward to exploring the opportunities to expand its reach in the Middle East. Dubai is a great base for the operation, and I know that there is definitely a market for its unique services in crew catering, artist hospitality and major events.”
This positive outlook is echoed by Tony Laurenson, Global Infusion Group’s founder and CEO who adds: “Having Mike onboard as a partner in the Dubai office lays solid foundations for our ambitious plans for growth in the Middle East. We’ve identified a gap for our specialist approach to catering and hospitality delivery. Mike knows and understands our business, has a great relationship with me and the wider team and a wealth of experience in events in the region. You could say it has all the ingredients for the perfect recipe.”