Olympia has made two key hires, appointing Rachele Caltagirone as head of placemaking and Andrew Thomson as estate operations director.
Caltagirone has more than 25 years’ experience of spearheading design-driven and culturally focused projects, having worked on placemaking strategies for iconic destinations such as King’s Cross, Coal Drops Yard, and The Whiteley in London.
Thomson has more than 20 years’ experience specialising in mixed-use operations at REITS and privately-held property businesses. In his previous role, he led operations at The Shard.
Lloyd Lee, managing partner at Yoo Capital, said: “For Olympia, the continued strengthening of our senior leadership team with Rachele’s visionary placemaking approach and Andrew’s operational acumen amplifies our commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences for visitors and residents both locally and from around the world. As we prepare to unveil our £1.3bn transformation in less than 12 months, this talented leadership team is incredibly focused and excited about revealing to the world a new global icon in culture, entertainment, hospitality and exhibitions.”
Caltagirone added: “Cultural landmarks are the backbone of a city’s identity, weaving together stories that endure through generations. Olympia’s redevelopment provides a canvas for preserving London’s heritage while creating new narratives for the future.”
Thomson said: “Transforming Olympia into a sought-after destination for both locals and visitors requires more than just strategic planning—it demands a profound respect for the community. I’m fully committed to ensuring Olympia flourishes while always honouring its roots.”


