Boomtown Festival promoted Toby Gwazdacz to the newly created role of managing director.
In his new position, which marks an evolution in the leadership structure, Gwazdacz will work strategically alongside Boomtown co-founders Luke Mitchell and Chris Rutherford, who continue to drive the long-term vision and future growth of the festival.
The 17th edition of the five-day camping festival takes place at Matterley Bowl in Hampshire from Wednesday, August 12 to Sunday, August 16, 2026.
Acts so far confirmed for next year include Kneecap, Scissor Sisters, Madness, Skrillex, Four Tet, Eve, Ren, Faithless, Ashnikko, Princess Nokia, Shaggy, Shy FX, Skindred, Wilkinson and many more.
Gwazdacz joined Boomtown in April 2022 and has served as commercial director for the past four years, playing a central role in guiding the festival through a period of major creative and organisational development.
Toby Gwazdacz said: "Boomtown is the ultimate immersive experience, and that is why our loyal community returns and word spreads to new citizens each year. We have carefully navigated the evolution from our underground roots to becoming a major player in the UK festival calendar, and whilst the success of the festival increases, so does our scope for boundless creativity.
“The strong growth we’ve achieved over the last four years has created the foundation for me to now take a broader strategic focus across the organisation of Boomtown. I am incredibly excited for the future and where our team’s ambitions and innovations will take us next."
Toby has been instrumental in shaping Boomtown’s recent evolution
Luke Mitchell
Luke Mitchell, co-founder, said: "Toby has been instrumental in shaping Boomtown’s recent evolution. His leadership, and ability to seamlessly connect the commercial and cultural sides of the festival have elevated what we’re capable of. This new structure allows us to focus on the next era of Boomtown while knowing the organisation is in exceptionally strong hands."
Chris Rutherford, co-founder, added: "Over the past four years, Toby has helped guide Boomtown through some of our most ambitious moves yet. He brings deep industry experience, an aligned strategic vision, and shared passion for creating the most immersive festival experience for our community every year. We’re incredibly excited to continue pushing boundaries together."
Since its inception in 2009, Boomtown has established a community of fans that now spans generations.
The festival recently unveiled Chapter Five: Radical Redesign, which will see the 2026 edition deliver what is billed as its “most adventurous and diverse line-up to date”, alongside a major expansion of the festival’s districts and staging.
This announcement follows Boomtown’s double win at the UK Festival Awards 2025, taking home both Large Festival Of The Year and Tech Innovation Of The Year, having previously secured Best Festival Production for three consecutive years.
Boomtown has also recently confirmed a charitable investment of £161,710 into community projects and good causes, including a £100,000 donation to Winchester Hospice.
PHOTO: Leora Bermeister
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