Silverstone promotes Hayley Smith to Head of Business Development as venue accelerates next phase of growth
09 January 2026Silverstone’s transformation from iconic motorsport circuit to a year-round experiential destination continues to gather pace, supported by strategic promotions within its commercial leadership. Newly promoted Head of Business Development Hayley Smith and Head of Venue Sales for MICE & Track Nicola Black share how the venue is evolving, the trends reshaping corporate events, and what makes Silverstone such a standout proposition for brands seeking unforgettable experiences.
Transformation of Silverstone
Over the past five years, Silverstone has significantly diversified its audience and offering. Smith explains that the venue has moved far beyond its traditional motorsport demographic, fuelled by major investment in The Wing Conference and Exhibition Centre, the addition of more than 300 bedrooms with the Hilton Garden Inn, and a long-term extension of the Formula 1 contract. “With F1’s broader appeal and the growth of our facilities, we’re now attracting new sectors such as retail, beauty and fintech,” she says. The return of in-house hospitality operations and the arrival of high-end trackside accommodation, Escapade Silverstone, have further opened the door to international incentives and premium corporate markets. “As demand for new experiences grows, building a focused Business Development team is essential. I’m excited to lead that growth.”
Black believes Silverstone now occupies a category of its own within the UK events landscape. “No other venue offers this combination of heritage, access and world-class facilities. From flexible indoor and outdoor spaces to multiple on-site hotels, a 5km circuit, a world-class karting track (opening in 2026), drive experiences and the Silverstone Museum - the ways in which clients can use our spaces are endless.”
A New Era of Corporate Client
The surge of cultural interest in Formula 1 has also helped redefine Silverstone’s corporate proposition. “When I started six years ago, we were mainly selling traditional conference space,” Smith explains. “But with Netflix’s Drive to Survive and Apple’s F1 movie, clients now want immersive, behind-the-scenes experiences that tap into the world of high performance.” Black adds that the appetite for incentives and memorable team rewards is stronger than ever. “Whether it’s exclusive access to the British Grand Prix or a corporate retreat at Escapade, organisations are seeking more than meeting rooms - they want experiences that inspire, reward and connect people.”
That desire for creativity is also shaping broader industry trends. F1’s collaborations with global brands such as Charlotte Tilbury, Kit Kat and LVMH are drawing new audiences who want to use the circuit in innovative ways. “Some of our most exciting enquiries come from clients who push us beyond our comfort zone,” Smith says. “A fashion show on track? Watch this space, I’m working on it.”
Fuelled by Excellence
Behind the scenes, the team’s client service philosophy remains centred on collaboration. “Our approach is simple: be bold, be creative and be exceptional,” says Black. “Every enquiry is treated as bespoke, and our close partnership with delivery and catering teams ensures we execute every event seamlessly.”
What the Future Holds
Looking ahead, both leaders see Silverstone continuing its evolution as a 365-day destination. Smith’s focus is on expanding into new sectors, while Black is championing an internal digital transformation designed to match clients with the right opportunities, whether sponsorship, incentives, event space or hospitality, more intelligently and efficiently. “That will be game-changing,” she says.
Asked to sum up Silverstone’s corporate experience in three words, the pair answer in unison: “Immersive, memorable and personable.”
Chat to us
For more information on hosting your next corporate event or incentive programme at Silverstone, contact the sales team.
