I got into the event industry because I always wanted to run my own business and having always loved live music, the idea of creating shows, events and experiences for others really appealed.
I have worked here since I set up Corporate Events in 1996.
I was attracted to this particular role because I love working with creative people and seeing a great concept or new idea come together on the night.
Not many people know that I genuinely enjoy coiling cables on a de-rig. Sadly those days appear to be behind me, but I'd like to think my team know I'm always willing to muck in when needed.
My worst experience at an event was show-calling an act who arrived late and went on stage totally unrehearsed. They went down a storm... sometimes in life you need a little luck.
If there’s one thing I’ve learnt it’s to respect your show crew, those largely anonymous black-shirted guys that make the show work. Without them we’re nowhere.
The best event I’ve been involved was in The World’s 50 Best Restaurant Awards at The Guildhall last April. It was a very memorable and prestigious event. It was the third year running we had produced this event, effectively the Oscars of the gastronomic world, attracting 550 top chefs and media from all over the world. We managed everything from pre-event content and design to the awards ceremony, after-show party and live web streaming. You could just tell how much the awards meant to each finalist, it felt very special indeed. The food was pretty good as well.
If I could do it all over again I would relax more.
The one thing I can’t stand is arrogance.
Outside of work I spend my time... I love to run marathons and half marathons, which enables me to unwind.
If money were no object I would have the company Christmas party in the Bahamas.
The one thing I can’t do my job without is my mid-morning coffee.
If I could switch places with anyone else in the industry it would be Michael Eavis, although I’d probably shave the beard.
If I ruled the event industry all hotels would have great ceiling heights.
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